Quality Materials Laboratory Specialist

Here at Scout Motors, we're carrying forward the heritage of one of the most iconic American vehicles in history. A vehicle dating back to 1960. One that forged the path for future generations of rugged SUVs and will do so once again.

But Scout is more than just a brand, it’s a legacy steeped in a culture of exploration, caretaking, and hard work.

The Scout brand is all about respect. Respect for the environment by developing electric vehicles with the capability to get you to any location. Respect for the past and the future by taking an iconic American brand that hasn’t been around for a while, electrifying it, digitizing it, and loading it with American innovation. Respect for communities by creating a company that stands for its people and its customers. And respect for both work and play, with vehicles that are equally at home at a camp site, a job site, or on a Tuesday commute.

At Scout Motors, we empower our talented, inclusive, and entrepreneurial teams to innovate. What makes a Scout employee? Someone who is a visionary and a leader, who seeks new paths and shares lessons learned. A knowledgeable doer who collaborates across the company to build better. A go-getter with unrivaled passion.

Join us at Scout Motors and be part of shaping the future of transportation. If you're ready to drive change and make history, apply now!

Position Overview

The Quality Materials Laboratory Specialist will lead material testing, analysis, and documentation to ensure the quality and compliance of automotive components. This role provides critical support to supplier quality, product validation, and manufacturing teams by delivering accurate test results, conducting root cause investigations, and ensuring adherence to industry standards.

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, knowledgeable in laboratory methods, and skilled at interpreting test data to drive quality improvements.

What you’ll do

Become part of an iconic brand that is set to revolutionize the electric pick-up truck & rugged SUV marketplace by achieving the following:

• Perform and oversee laboratory testing on automotive materials (metals, plastics, leathers, paint, composites) and components.
• Conduct and interpret standardized quality tests (tensile, impact, corrosion, vibration, fatigue).
• Document and maintain complete sample traceability with accurate reporting.
• Support root cause analysis, material defect investigations, and corrective action plans.
• Operate, calibrate, and maintain laboratory equipment, ensuring readiness and compliance.
• Prepare and communicate technical reports for engineering, supplier quality, and manufacturing teams.
• Partner with suppliers to evaluate materials against company specifications and industry standards.
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols, ISO/ASTM/SAE standards, and laboratory procedures.

Location & Travel Expectations:

• This role will be based out of the Scout Motors location in Columbia, SC then transitioning to Blythewood, SC. 
• The responsibilities of this role require daily attendance in office with in-person meetings and events regularly. 
• Applicants should expect that the role will require the ability to convene with Scout colleagues in person and travel to participate in events on behalf of the company from time to time.
• Travel: Domestic and international travel required, approximately 10-20% of the time. Valid driver's license required. Passport required

What you’ll bring 

We expect all Scout employees to have integrity, curiosity, resourcefulness, and strive to exhibit a positive attitude, as well as a growth mindset. You’ll be comfortable with change and flexible in a fast-paced, high-growth environment. You’ll take a collaborative approach to achieve ambitious goals. Here's what else you'll bring: 

Education & Experience

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in a technical field (Materials Science, Chemistry, Engineering) or equivalent laboratory experience required.
• High school diploma or equivalent required. 
• Chemistry background or laboratory chemistry experience strongly preferred.
• Experience in materials testing or quality assurance (automotive or manufacturing preferred).

Skills & Knowledge

• Hands-on expertise with testing methods (tensile, fatigue, impact, corrosion).
• Strong knowledge of automotive and manufacturing quality standards (ISO, ASTM, SAE).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and data analysis/reporting tools.
• Analytical mindset with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to work independently and within cross-functional teams.
• Strong communication skills for reporting findings and collaborating with stakeholders.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods while conducting lab work.
• Ability to lift and move test samples/equipment as needed.
• Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment with exposure to chemicals and paints.
• Ability and willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required, approximately 10-20% of the time. 
• Valid driver's license required.
• Passport required

What you'll gain

The benefits of joining Scout include the chance to build products and a company from the ground up.  This is a chance to create something new and lasting – with an iconic brand at its foundation.  In addition, Scout provides competitive compensation and benefits to support your physical, mental, and financial wellbeing. Program specifics are detailed in company policies and employee benefit guides, select highlights:

• Competitive insurance including:
  • Medical, dental, vision and income protection plans
• 401(k) program with:
  • An employer match and immediate vesting
• Generous Paid Time Off including:
  • 20 days planned PTO, as accrued
  • 40 hours of unplanned PTO and 14 company or floating holidays, annually
  • Up to 16 weeks of paid parental leave for biological and adoptive parents of all genders
  • Paid leave for circumstances related to bereavement, jury duty, voting time, or military leave

Pay Transparency

This is a full-time, exempt position eligible to receive a base salary and to participate in an annual performance bonus program. Final salary offered will be determined based on factors including but not limited to the candidate's skills and experience. The annual performance bonus program is preset and not candidate dependent.

Initial base salary range = $95,000.00 - $120,000.00

Internal leveling code: IC9

Notice to applicants:

• Residing in San Francisco: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Scout Motors will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. 
• Residing in Los Angeles: Scout Motors will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. 
• Residing in New York City: This role is not eligible for remote work in New York City.

Equal Opportunity

Scout Motors is committed to employing a diverse workforce and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, disability, pregnancy, or any other characteristics protected by law. Scout Motors is committed to compliance with all applicable fair employment practice laws. If you require reasonable accommodation to complete a job application, pre-employment testing, or a job interview or to otherwise participate in the hiring process, please contact ScoutAccommodations@scoutmotors.com.