Materials Lab Technician

Job Purpose

This position will be responsible for conducting material tests and writing reports on components submitted to the Materials Laboratory of traditional and electric driveline and motor products for light and commercial vehicle markets. Other duties include, but are not limited to the following.

• Operate bandsaw and abrasive cutting saws, grinding and polishing equipment, digital cameras and microscopes, spectrometer and other analytical equipment such as hardness testers, tension‑compression equipment and other advanced analytical equipment.
• Perform routine and non‑routine materials and failure analysis related to manufacturing, product, supplier and customer concerns.
• Interpret and summarize test results, observations and photographs in a formal laboratory report.
• Become proficient with laboratory equipment and test methods (e.g., hardness testing, microscopes, scanning electron microscope (SEM/EDS), mechanical testing, spectrometer, FTIR, x‑ray diffraction, environmental testing, etc.). Examples of tests that may be performed: include mechanical properties of metallic and non‑metallic materials, hardness, chemistry, environmental testing, x‑ray diffraction and other miscellaneous tests.
• Learn, and apply, basics of Dana products, including design, specifications, function, materials and testing of various Dana components.
• Learn, and apply, materials and materials processing used on Dana components.
• Use hand tools and measuring tools.
• Maintain laboratory equipment, equipment verifications, calibrations and housekeeping.
• Responsible for completing other engineering projects as assigned.

• High school diploma required. Associate degree or higher in an Engineering, Science or Automotive related Technology field preferred.
• Manufacturing or laboratory experience in automotive or ferrous metalworking preferred.
• Experience in ferrous metallurgy field (e.g., steel, iron, heat treating, forging, welding, etc.) preferred.
• Knowledge of non‑ferrous metals, plastics, elastomers, adhesives, welding, paints, and lubricants is preferred but not required.
• Knowledge of laboratory testing such as hardness, tension‑compression, fatigue, corrosion testing, chemical analysis and microscopic evaluation.
• Must be able to work overtime occasionally during the week or weekends as needed.

• Strong mechanical aptitude and the ability to read design prints.
• Work independently and in a team environment.
• Excellent attention to detail, time management, organizational and problem‑solving skills.
• Self‑motivated and ability to work in a fast‑paced work environment.
• Ability to multitask on multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills to work with people at multiple levels in Dana.
• Proficient in using computers including Microsoft Office products and other software applications.
• Able to routinely lift from 35 to 50 lbs. and stand for an average of approximately 50 % of the time that could vary day to day.