Laboratory Specialist

Job Description:

SECURITY CLEARANCE :
You will be subject to a BPSS check (including a criminal record check) TRAVEL REQUIRED :
Occasional travel within UK

LOCATION:

Broughton This role is a shift base role on early- shift, Late
-Shift. Also Night shift which is on a rota basis. WHAT'S IN IT FOR YOU Financial Reward:
Competitive salary, annual profit share, contributory pension, share options, car leasing scheme, free onsite parking, season ticket loan, tax-free technology scheme, shopping discounts and much more Work / Life Balance: 35 hour week, This may include Days, Double-days and Night shift. Due to site ramp up there are currently multiple positions available across these shifts with differing shift premiums, flexible working, option to buy/sell holiday Personal Development:
Personalised development plan, Airbus Leadership University and unlimited access to 10,000+ E-learning courses, internal mobility including international opportunities Health & Wellbeing:
Bupa health insurance, wellbeing benefits (including 24/7 online GP and mental health support), discounted family health / dental insurance / eye tests, cycle-to-work scheme, on-site canteen and coffee shop, lunchtime yoga / meditation Family and Caregiving :
Life assurance, enhanced pay for maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave and caregiving About the Role 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.

Key Responsibilities Mechanical Testing:
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. Metallography and Materials Analysis:
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. Process Inspection and Control:
Collaborate with production teams to troubleshoot process deviations and implement corrective actions. Have knowledge of and be able to provide technical support to regarding the following;
Heat Treatments:
Annealing, quenching, tempering, case hardening, etc. 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. Qualifications and

Skills Required:

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. Preferred:
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) This role is a shift base role on early shift, Late Shift and Night shift on a rota basis. How we can support you Many of our staff work flexibly in many different ways, including part-time. Please talk to us at the…