Metallographic Technician

Onsite in Durham, NC

Overview

Vulcan Elements is onshoring the manufacturing of rare-earth permanent magnets with a resilient, secure supply chain, servicing customers in critical industries such as defense, aerospace, and automotive. As a Metallographic Technician, you will prepare metallurgical samples, operate analytical equipment, compile analysis & reports, and improve the speed & quality Vulcan Elements’ development operations. You will work alongside a team of materials & process engineers, magnetics engineers, and technicians to accomplish company goals.

Description

• Characterize metallographic samples using a variety of tools including SEM/EDS.
• Conduct particle size analysis using laser diffraction.
• Analyze material chemistry and impurities using ICP-OES, gas fusion, and similar tools.
• Perform sample preparation (cutting, mounting, grinding, polishing, and etching) for microscopic examination.
• Analyze metallurgical results, document, prepare reports, and conduct data labeling as required by Engineering.
• Maintain laboratory facilities, equipment, and manage consumables & sample inventory.
• Develop and follow safe working procedures and maintain a clean and organized laboratory environment.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated knowledge of sample preparation and metallurgical analysis techniques, such as optical microscopy, SEM/EDS, XRD, ICP-OES, IGA, for bulk and powder metals and a willingness to learn new techniques as required.
• A combination of education and experience, likely gained through a minimum of a High School Diploma or GED, certificate programs, associate or bachelor’s degree programs.
• Experience: 2+ years of experience in a material analysis laboratory.
• Knowledge of metal properties, heat treatment processes, and failure analysis methodologies.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.