Metallurgical Technician - Failure Analysis Hurst Metallurgical Research Laboratory, Inc. Euless, TX Job Details Part-time $55,000 - $70,000 a year 2 hours ago Benefits Paid time off Retirement plan Qualifications Teamwork Microsoft Excel Research Attention to detail Manufacturing Full Job Description
SUMMARY OF POSITION
Hurst Metallurgical Research Laboratory, Inc. is a family-owned metallurgical testing laboratory seeking a Metallurgical Technician who is hardworking, detail oriented, and interested in developing skills in failure analysis. We offer a collaborative, hands-on work environment where employees are valued and play an important role on a small technical team. The selected candidate will support metallurgical failure investigations by preparing samples through sectioning, grinding, polishing, and etching; performing visual and microscopic examinations; documenting findings through photography; and assisting with other laboratory testing and analysis. This position is intended to develop into a larger technical role, with the selected candidate gaining the experience and knowledge needed to eventually conduct and lead failure investigations independently. The position will begin with a 3-month trial period, allowing both the employee and the company to ensure a strong mutual fit.
WORK SCHEDULE & HOURS
This position is a full time position - 40 hours per week. Standard business hours are M-F 8AM to 5PM.
DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES
Assist with metallurgical failure investigations involving failed or damaged metal components. Prepare metallographic samples through sectioning, mounting, grinding, polishing, and etching. Perform visual and microscopic examinations of samples and components. Capture clear, well-documented photographs of specimens, fracture surfaces, microstructures, and other relevant features. Assist with hardness testing, chemical analysis, dimensional measurements, and other laboratory testing as needed to support investigations. Record observations, test results, photographs, and other technical information accurately and consistently. Assist metallurgists with organizing findings and preparing technical failure analysis reports. Learn to identify common metallurgical features, material conditions, manufacturing defects, and failure mechanisms. Develop the technical knowledge and judgment needed to progressively take greater responsibility for planning and conducting failure investigations. Communicate with metallurgists, laboratory technicians, and other team members regarding testing needs, observations, and results. Maintain laboratory equipment, work areas, and metallographic preparation equipment in a clean and orderly condition. Follow laboratory procedures, quality requirements, and applicable safety practices. Perform other metallurgical testing, laboratory support, and technical duties as needed.
DESIRED REQUIREMENTS
Bachelor's degree in Metallurgical Engineering, Materials Science/Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field preferred. Entry-level and early-career candidates are encouraged to apply; prior failure analysis experience is not required. Hands-on laboratory, manufacturing, machining, materials testing, or metallography experience is a plus. Strong attention to detail and ability to follow technical procedures accurately. Mechanical aptitude and comfort working with laboratory equipment, tools, and metal components. Strong observation, problem-solving, and analytical skills. Interest in metallurgy, materials behavior, fracture mechanisms, and determining why components fail. Ability and willingness to learn metallographic sample preparation, microscopy, hardness testing, chemical analysis, and other investigative techniques. Good written communication skills with the ability to clearly document observations and technical findings. Basic proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and general computer applications. Ability to work independently after training while also collaborating effectively with a small technical team. Dependable, organized, and able to manage multiple investigations and priorities. Willingness to take on increasing technical responsibility as experience and proficiency develop.
BENEFITS
3 weeks Paid Time Off per year to be used as desired (sick leave, vacation, personal time, etc.) SEP-IRA retirement plan eligibility after 1 year of employment Relaxed, casual atmosphere. Work on a wide and interesting variety of projects. Small, team-oriented, family-owned business.
Pay:
$55,000.00 - $70,000.00 per year
Benefits:
Paid time off Application Question(s): Are you able to reliably commute to Euless TX ? What type of prior material testing experience do you have? Are you looking for a job that is part time, with hours ranging from 20-40 hours per week, depending on the week?
