Lead Application Scientist - Metallography

Lead Application Scientist - Metallography

For over 90 years, LECO has been a leader in the development and production of world class laboratory instruments delivering state-of-the-art products nationwide and across the globe. Located in St. Joseph, Michigan, LECO continues to be a family-owned company that understands the value of shared interests, long-term stability, loyalty, and trust.

Schedule:

Monday – Friday 8am- 5pm

• Interface with Sales Engineers and Customers to provide instrument and consumable recommendations, technical support, and troubleshooting for various materials.
• Lead the development of metallographic methods and validation data for LECO instruments, resulting in the preparation of comprehensive Application Notes.
• Review and coordinate sample submissions, oversee material preparation and test procedures, prepare customer reports, and ensure compliance with department standards before distribution.
• Mentor application scientists in developing, supporting, and demonstrating metallographic sample preparation procedures and test procedures to foster technical and professional growth.
• Provide direct leadership for Application Scientists, including performance management, goal setting, resource planning, coaching, and support for professional development in alignment with departmental and organizational objectives.
• Coordinate and deliver customer instrument demonstrations.
• Adhere to company protocols to identify and address quality issues and escalate as needed.
• Oversee the operation and maintenance of metallographic equipment.
• Develop, revise, and approve standard operating procedures for performance testing and quality verification, including metallographic test procedures, methods and documentation.
• Deliver technical presentations of scientific work to both technical and non-technical audiences through webinars, conferences, and meetings.
• Coordinate and deliver hands-on training with LECO instrumentation for new employees and the sales team.
• Ensure ongoing improvement and ISO/IEC 17025:2017 compliance.
• Collaborate with Product Management, R&D, Sales, Service, and Production teams to support internal initiatives and address customer needs effectively.
• Maintain an understanding of industry standards (ASTM, ISO), quality requirements, and emerging materials characterization technologies.
• Function as the metallographic subject matter expert, providing technical guidance and support to internal teams and external customers
• Create and facilitate metallographic training programs and workshops that build technical competency among internal teams and external attendees

• Deep knowledge of metallographic principles and preparation procedures.
• Strong computer skills (i.e. Word, Excel PowerPoint)
• Strong written and verbal communication skills to interact with team members, customers, and executives.
• Ability to learn the scientific principles and technology of the equipment.
• Self-directed, highly motivated strategic thinker with a proven ability to multitask and collaborate amongst cross functional teams.
• Ability to work within the USA without restriction.

• Bachelor's degree in Metallurgy, Materials Science, or related scientific field.
• 3–5 years of demonstrated experience in metallography, including sample preparation, microscopy, hardness testing, and equipment operation; proficiency with LECO systems preferred.

EOE M/F/VET/Disability