Laboratory Specialist

Laboratory Specialist (BBBH
18313) Broughton, Wales

Our global Aviation and Defence client is actively seeking a Laboratory Specialist to join their team on a 12 month contract.

• Pay: £39.45, via Umbrella
• Contract: 12 Months
• Hours: Double Day Shift Pattern (+20% uplift). Monday to Friday alternating weeks of 6am-1.10pm and 1.30pm – 8.40pm. Ad Hoc Night shift work required.
• Location: Broughton
• IR35 Status: In Scope

The Laboratory Specialist is responsible for conducting a wide range of hands‑on laboratory tests and inspections to validate material properties, product integrity, and process compliance. This role involves metallographic preparation and analysis, mechanical testing, and auditing of special manufacturing processes. The ideal candidate will possess a strong theoretical background in materials science combined with practical laboratory experience and a thorough understanding of industrial processes.

• Perform and document a variety of mechanical tests including tensile and hardness (Vickers, Knoop) in accordance with AITM, ASTM, ISO, and other relevant standards.
• Operate, calibrate, and maintain mechanical testing equipment.
• Analyse test data, generate comprehensive reports, and communicate results to engineering and production teams.

• Conduct metallographic sample preparation, including sectioning, mounting, grinding, polishing, and etching of various metallic alloys.
• Perform microscopic examinations to evaluate microstructural features such as grain size, phase distribution, weld penetration, and coating thickness.
• Utilise microscopy techniques to identify defects, inclusions, and anomalies.
• Support failure analysis investigations by providing detailed microstructural evaluation.

• Collaborate with production teams to troubleshoot process deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Have knowledge of and be able to provide technical support to the following:
  • Chemical Surface Treatments:
    Anodizing, chemical conversion coatings, phosphating, etching, and plating.
  • Mechanical Surface Treatments:
    Shot peening, abrasive blasting, and polishing.
  • Corrosion Inhibiting Coatings:
    Application of paints, primers, and specialised protective coatings.
  • Develop and maintain laboratory procedures and work instructions.
  • Ensure all testing and inspection activities are accurately documented in the quality management system.
  • Interpret engineering drawings, technical specifications, and standards to determine testing and inspection requirements.

This role is a shift base role on early shift, Late Shift and Night shift on a rota basis.

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Materials Science, Metallurgical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related technical field.
• Proven experience in a hands‑on laboratory environment undertaking materials testing.
• Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of metallography and mechanical testing principles.
• In-depth understanding of special processes, specifically heat treatments, chemical/mechanical surface treatments, and coating systems.
• Ability to interpret technical specifications and industry standards (e.g., ASTM, ISO, AMS).
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Proficient in technical report writing and data analysis.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team environment.

• Experience in a similar role within industry.
• Experience with failure analysis and root cause investigation techniques.
• Familiarity with non‑destructive testing (NDT) methods.
• Knowledge of quality management systems such as ISO 9001, ISO
  17025.
• Hands‑on experience with advanced analytical equipment such as Scanning Electron Microscopes (SEM).