Materials Technician

A.O. Smith is a global leader applying innovative technologies and energy-efficient solutions to products manufactured and marketed worldwide. The company is a leading manufacturer of residential and commercial water heating equipment and boilers, as well as water treatment products. A.O. Smith is headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

The incumbent performs a variety of duties such as testing, calibrating, and adjusting equipment, operating equipment, conducting tests, and reporting data. This position is located in Waukesha, WI and offers a competitive salary range of $65,000.00 to $70,000.00.

• Support engineers and business unit teams through testing, sample preparation, and analysis of materials for water heater and water treatment applications.
• Apply coatings to components and perform corrosion testing.
• Conduct failure analysis on materials, including coatings, metals, and plastics.
• Perform material life testing under different conditions.
• Set up, monitor, and tear down lab equipment for tests and experiments efficiently and accurately.
• Collaborate with engineers and technicians to develop improved testing and experimental processes and methods.
• Write reports documenting testing setup and results, and update personnel on equipment, laboratory, or project status.
• Inventory, order, store, and distribute materials, laboratory supplies, and equipment spare parts.
• Maintain a safe and clean workspace.
• Stay abreast of advances in materials analysis techniques and industry standards.
• Support laboratory staff in other labs as needed.

• AAS or BS degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Materials Engineering or related field preferred, or 1 year of prior laboratory experience.
• Aptitude for and interest in highly detailed hands‑on work.
• Knowledge of how to use hand tools, power tools, and test equipment.
• Working knowledge of laboratory safety practices.
• Conscientious and dependable, able to work independently or on small teams.
• Ability to perform routine mathematical calculations and chemical analysis.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with personal computers and MS Office products.

• Experience with coatings applications and testing.
• Experience with failure analysis and metallography.
• Experience with corrosion testing.
• Experience with mounting and polishing metal samples.
• Familiarity with microscopy, materials testing equipment, and materials analysis.

Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits plans including medical and dental insurance, company‑sponsored life insurance, retirement savings plan, short‑ and long‑term disability programs, and tuition assistance.

We consider all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, gender identity, expression, marital or military status. We also provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and applicable state and local law.