Entry Level Material Science Engineering Jobs in Irvine, CA

The Technical Planner - Aerospace Materials Testing (2nd Shift) is responsible for translating complex aerospace customer specifications into actionable testing and machining plans. This includes defining the required material preparation, test sequences, and accurately estimating processing times. Acting as the bridge between the customer requirements and shop-floor execution, the Technical Planner ensures compliance with aerospace standards and on-time delivery of high-quality test results.

Shift: 11am - 7:30pm

Compensation: $25.00 - 35.00/hour + $2.00 Shift Differential

Interpret and translate aerospace customer specifications and drawings into detailed test and machining plans.

• Define the material preparation steps, including machining, conditioning, and labeling, required before testing can be performed.

• Identify required test methods (e.g., tensile, fatigue, impact, hardness) and ensure they align with customer and industry standards (e.g., ASTM, ISO, NADCAP).

• Estimate processing and turnaround times for each job and communicate projected timelines to support quoting and production planning.

• Collaborate with machining, testing, and quality assurance teams to ensure accurate and timely execution of test plans.

• Prepare work instructions and support documents to guide technical teams in performing tests as specified.

• Support internal process improvements by identifying inefficiencies or opportunities to streamline workflows.

• Ensure compliance with all applicable aerospace quality and safety standards.

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Materials Science, or related technical discipline preferred.

• 2+ years of experience in technical planning or coordination within a testing, laboratory, or manufacturing environment, preferably in the aerospace industry.

• Strong understanding of aerospace materials, testing standards, and manufacturing processes.

• Proficient in interpreting technical drawings, customer specifications, and industry documentation.

• Familiarity with testing processes and lab equipment related to metals, composites, and other aerospace-grade materials.

• Skilled in using ERP/MRP systems and Microsoft Office tools.

• Excellent organizational, communication, and analytical skills.

• Detail-oriented with a strong focus on quality and compliance.

Work Setting:

• Primarily performed in an office or lab-adjacent environment within a materials testing or manufacturing facility. Regular interaction with shop floor personnel, machinists, and lab technicians is expected.

Physical Activity:

• Sitting: Frequent, for extended periods while reviewing specifications, entering data, and generating plans.
• Standing/Walking: Occasional, during collaboration with shop floor teams or when inspecting materials and test setups.
• Climbing/Stooping/Bending: Minimal to none.
• Lifting: May occasionally lift light objects (up to 20 lbs), such as test samples, folders, or equipment manuals.
• Reaching/Handling: Regular use of hands to operate computers, telephones, and office equipment.

Environment:

• Noise: Moderate, typical of manufacturing or testing environments. Hearing protection may be required in certain areas.
• Temperature: Typically climate-controlled, but brief exposure to production or machining areas may vary.
• Safety Gear: May require the use of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) such as safety glasses, steel-toe shoes, or lab coats when entering certain areas of the facility.

Element is one of the fastest growing testing, inspection and certification businesses in the world. Globally we have more than 9,000 brilliant minds operating from 270 sites across 30 countries. Together we share an ambitious purpose to 'Make tomorrow safer than today'.

When failure in use is not an option, we help customers make certain that their products, materials, processes and services are safe, compliant and fit for purpose. From early R&D, through complex regulatory approvals and into production, our global laboratory network of scientists, engineers, and technologists support customers to achieve assurance over product quality, sustainable outcomes, and market access.

While we are proud of our global reach, working at Element feels like being part of a smaller company. We empower you to take charge of your career, and reward excellence and integrity with growth and development.

Industries across the world depend on our care, attention to detail and the absolute accuracy of our work. The role we have to play in creating a safer world is much bigger than our organization.

At Element, we always take pride in putting our people first. We are an equal opportunity employer that recognizes diversity and inclusion as fundamental to our Vision of becoming "the world's most trusted testing partner".

All suitably qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment on the basis of objective work related criteria and without regard for the following: age, disability, ethnic origin, gender, marital status, race, religion, responsibility of dependents, sexual orientation, or gender identity or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws or other characteristics in accordance with the applicable governing laws.