Laboratory Materials Analyst I​/X-Ray Diffraction

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We're committed to bringing safety, quality, and customer focus to the business of advanced ceramics manufacturing.

Prepare samples and perform routine quantitative and qualitative analysis of ceramic and other inorganic materials, with primary emphasis on X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF). Support additional phase, elemental, surface area, and light-element testing, including XRF fused bead preparation, total oxygen, nitrogen, carbon, and sulfur analysis by combustion, BET surface area analysis, and uncombined carbon testing. Interpret results at a foundational level and create accurate technical reports for internal customers under guidance from senior analysts and laboratory leadership.

Analyze ceramic and other inorganic materials to determine customer-requested properties within the Phase & Light Element testing lab, with primary focus on:

• X-ray diffraction (XRD) for phase identification and related qualitative or semi-quantitative analysis via Rietveld refinement.
• X-ray fluorescence (XRF) for elemental analysis of ceramic and inorganic materials.
• XRF fused bead sample preparation and associated sample handling requirements.
• Total oxygen, nitrogen, carbon, and sulfur analysis by combustion or inert gas fusion techniques.
• BET surface area analysis.
• Uncombined carbon testing.

Work under the supervision of a lab section leader, senior analyst, or appropriate technical lead.

Prepare samples, collect data, perform calculations, and report findings in accordance with approved methods, standards, specifications, and customer requirements.

Execute established XRD and XRF workflows, including sample preparation, instrument setup, calibration or standard checks, data collection, and preliminary data review.

Support XRF bead fusion preparation, including weighing, flux handling, fusion equipment operation, bead inspection, and documentation of preparation conditions.

Perform routine light-element and surface-area testing using documented procedures and established quality controls.

Prepare accurate and timely technical reports for engineering, research and development, quality, and production stakeholders.

Review data for completeness, obvious anomalies, sample preparation issues, calibration concerns, and method compliance before reporting.

Use standard statistical methods and tools as directed in pre-existing operating procedures.

Maintain data integrity by following established sample traceability, documentation, instrument log, and reporting requirements.

Escalate abnormal results, suspected sample contamination, questionable phase identification, poor XRF bead quality, instrument issues, or method concerns to senior analysts or lab leadership.

Collaborate with technicians and other analysts to ensure samples are prepared, tested, and reported accurately.

Support technicians by providing basic guidance on routine sample preparation, safe equipment use, and proper documentation practices, within established procedures.

Build technical competence in XRD pattern interpretation, XRF data review, light-element analysis, BET testing, and uncombined carbon methods.

Receive coaching and feedback to develop stronger ownership of data quality, method execution, and technical communication, consistent with Analyst I career-pathing expectations.

Work with internal customers to clarify routine testing needs and communicate basic findings when appropriate.

Responsible for routine cleaning, basic troubleshooting, and preventative maintenance of equipment within area of responsibility.

Support operation and upkeep of XRD, XRF, XRF auto-fuse, combustion analyzers, BET, and uncombined carbon testing equipment as assigned.

Identify and report equipment, software, calibration, sample preparation, or measurement technique issues to appropriate lab leadership.

Accurately use laboratory information systems, department-specific software, and…