Metallographer Technologist​/Senior Metallographer Technologist

Job Description

We have an opening for a Metallographer Tech/Sr. Tech (Mechanical Technologist/Senior Technologist) in the Materials and Non-Destructive Evaluation Section. You will support ongoing programmatic activities independently and work with engineers, scientists, and technical staff to provide technical support for characterizing a wide variety of materials using optical microscopy, established surface preparation techniques, and measurement of microstructural features. Tasks may include, but are not limited to, sample preparation, digital optical microscopy, hardness testing, and other techniques for a variety of metal alloys and other materials.

This position is in the Materials Engineering Division (MED) within the Engineering Directorate.

• Provide general technical support by applying fundamental knowledge of fabrication, assembly, installation, and system operation under general supervision.
• Work with chemicals (etchants, solvents, embedding resins), metallographic lab equipment (microscopes, precision saws, polishers), and various alloys.
• Use machine tools, power tools, and hand tools.
• Provide general technical support for sample preparation and sample analysis.
• Acquire and analyze data, and develop solutions and alternative approaches to moderately complex mechanical problems using creativity and judgment.
• Maintain system documentation and experimental records.
• Follow written operational and safety procedures.
• Perform all assignments in accordance with safety and security requirements and policies.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Provide advanced technical support by applying fundamental knowledge of fabrication, assembly, installation, and system operation under minimal supervision.
• Interact regularly and independently with project leads, scientists, engineers, and technical personnel.
• Identify, evaluate, and analyze requirements and processes.
• Solve complex mechanical and operational problems.

• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship.
• Associate degree in engineering, mechanical, industrial, or manufacturing technology, or an equivalent combination of education and related experience.
• Experience with metallurgical sample preparation techniques, including mounting, sectioning, fine polishing, and etching.
• Experience making independent decisions regarding moderately complex technical problems.
• Demonstrated proficiency in written and verbal communication, and the interpersonal skills necessary to communicate effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to organize work, manage conflicting tasks, and interact effectively with team members.
• Experience with personal computers and associated software (Microsoft Office Suite).
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team environment.

• Advanced knowledge of general manufacturing techniques.
• Significant experience operating and maintaining conventional and NC equipment.
• Experience with complex mechanical fabrication and assembly.

• Familiarity with advanced optical microscopy techniques, including polarized light, differential interference contrast, and confocal microscopy.
• Familiarity with image analysis techniques, including grain size determination and measurement methods for determining phase fractions.
• Knowledge of materials processing, including welding.

$43.55 – $63.97 Hourly

$43.55 – $53.36 Hourly for the 533.2 level

$52.23 – $63.97 Hourly for the 533.3 level

This is a Career Indefinite position, open to Lab employees and external candidates.

• Flexible Benefits Package
• 401(k)
• Relocation Assistance
• Education Reimbursement Program
• Flexible schedules (depending on project needs)

This position requires a Department of Energy (DOE) Q-level clearance. If you are selected, we will initiate a Federal background investigation to determine if you meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information or matter. Also, all DOE cleared employees are subject to random drug testing. Q-level clearance requires U.S. citizenship.

External applicant(s) selected for this position must pass a post-offer, pre-employment drug test. This includes testing for use of marijuana as Federal Law applies to us as a Federal Contractor.

We are an equal opportunity employer that is committed to providing all with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, marital status, national origin, ancestry, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, medical condition, pregnancy, protected veteran status, age, citizenship, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.

Our goal is to create an accessible and inclusive experience for all candidates applying and…