Metalworking Specialist

The role requires strong analytical and problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to interpret test results and translate analytical findings into practical process improvements. Responsibilities include routine sampling and testing of metalworking fluids, maintaining accurate records, identifying trends, troubleshooting process issues, supporting chemical and fluid management programs, and communicating recommendations to site personnel and program management.

• Perform routine sampling and analytical testing of metalworking fluids and machining systems according to established procedures and customer requirements.
• Monitor and document key metalworking fluid parameters, including concentration, pH, conductivity, hardness, alkalinity, contamination, and other applicable system-specific characteristics.
• Analyze test results, identify trends, and recommend corrective actions to maintain process stability and product quality.
• Troubleshoot metalworking fluid and machining system issues, including concentration fluctuations, contamination, foaming, odors, corrosion, biological activity, residue, and fluid performance concerns.
• Interact with site personnel, machine operators, maintenance personnel, engineering, and quality teams to support effective management of machining systems.
• Develop and maintain testing procedures, operating parameters, sampling plans, and control limits in collaboration with the on-site team.
• Manage metalworking fluid systems within documented customer operational parameters and established process specifications.
• Perform system inspections and assist with fluid maintenance, sump management, filtration, and fluid treatment activities.
• Identify opportunities to reduce fluid consumption, waste generation, operating costs, and process variability.
• Support metalworking fluid changes, system cleanouts, and equipment cleaning as required.
• Perform physical additions of approved chemicals or treatment products as necessary to maintain system parameters.
• Maintain accurate analytical records, spreadsheets, trend charts, and reports documenting system performance and corrective actions.
• Communicate analytical findings, system conditions, and recommended actions to the Program Manager and appropriate customer personnel.
• Research and take action on Requests for Service related to machining systems, metalworking fluids, and analytical testing.
• Identify recurring process issues and assist in developing root-cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions.
• Work with appropriate site personnel to maintain chemical-related equipment, fluid handling equipment, filtration systems, and machining process support systems.
• Identify and communicate supplier or product performance issues through the appropriate channels.
• Receive deliveries, verify materials against documentation, and ensure deliveries comply with company and customer requirements.
• Maintain compliance with applicable safety, environmental, quality, and customer requirements.
• Participate in continuous improvement activities involving machining processes, fluid management, analytical testing, waste reduction, and process optimization.

• Strong understanding of metalworking fluids, machining processes, and industrial manufacturing systems.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify trends and determine appropriate corrective actions.
• Ability to identify and implement cost savings.
• Ability to perform laboratory and field-based testing accurately and consistently.
• Ability to interpret analytical data and communicate results to technical and non-technical personnel.
• Knowledge of common metalworking fluid testing methods and process control principles.
• Strong attention to detail with a focus on accuracy, documentation, and process consistency.
• Works effectively and maintains professional relationships with management, customers, machine operators, maintenance personnel, engineers, suppliers, contractors, and company personnel.
• Successfully manages and prioritizes a high volume of work in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
• Accepts challenges, identifies opportunities, and willingly supports new projects and process improvement initiatives.
• Demonstrates flexibility and works effectively in a team environment.
• Ability to work independently while maintaining effective communication with site and program management.
• Ability to use computers and peripherals to create spreadsheets, documents, graphs, trend reports, and presentations.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
• Ability to work with analytical instruments, laboratory equipment, sampling equipment, and standard industrial tools.
• Ability to safely handle metalworking fluids, treatment chemicals, and other materials used in machining operations.
• Ability to sit for prolonged periods while completing computer-based documentation and analysis.
• Ability to stand for prolonged periods and walk…