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Met Lab Jobs in Des Moines, IA (NOW HIRING)

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Met Lab information

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$9

$24

$44

How much do met lab jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for met lab in Des Moines, IA is $24.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $27.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a met lab?

Met Lab jobs refer to roles within metallurgical laboratories, where professionals analyze and test metals and alloys to determine their properties, composition, and quality. These positions often include metallurgists, lab technicians, and materials scientists who perform experiments, run tests, and interpret results for industrial applications. Met Lab professionals play a key role in quality control, materials development, and failure analysis across industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, and construction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a metallurgical laboratory technician?

To succeed as a Metallurgical Laboratory Technician, you need a strong background in materials science, laboratory testing methods, and a relevant technical diploma or degree. Familiarity with analytical instruments such as spectrometers, hardness testers, and metallographic microscopes, as well as proficiency in data analysis software, is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for ensuring accurate test results, maintaining laboratory safety, and supporting quality control in manufacturing or research environments.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in a met lab, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in a Met Lab (Metallurgical Laboratory) often encounter challenges such as maintaining precise testing standards, managing a high volume of sample analyses, and troubleshooting unexpected material properties. Staying updated with industry standards and regular calibration of equipment are crucial for accuracy. Team collaboration is essential, as metallurgists, lab technicians, and quality engineers must frequently communicate to interpret results and solve complex problems. Continuous learning and adherence to safety protocols also support efficiency and professional growth in this environment.

What is the difference between Met Lab vs Materials Testing Technician?

AspectMet LabMaterials Testing Technician
CertificationsOften requires certifications like NDT or specific industry trainingTypically requires certifications such as NDT or ASTM standards
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, manufacturing plants, quality control labsTesting facilities, manufacturing sites, quality assurance labs
Industry UsageUsed across aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, and constructionCommon in construction, manufacturing, and quality assurance sectors

Both Met Lab and Materials Testing Technician roles involve testing and quality assurance in industrial settings. While they share similar certifications and work environments, Met Lab often refers to the laboratory-based testing process, whereas Materials Testing Technicians may perform on-site or in-lab testing. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path in materials testing and quality control fields.

What are popular job titles related to Met Lab jobs in Des Moines, IA?

For Met Lab jobs in Des Moines, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Met Lab jobs in Des Moines, IA look for?

The top searched job categories for Met Lab jobs in Des Moines, IA are:

Met Lab jobs near you
Infographic showing various Met Lab job openings in Des Moines, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,252 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Converting Machine Operator | Th-Sat - 7am to 7pm | $18.00 per hour | Climate Controlled Facility

Katecho

Des Moines, IA

$18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

SUMMARY

This employee is responsible to set up and operate machinery in the Manufacturing Department with minimal supervision according to applicable drawings; must inspect the quality of the materials and work in process as well as accurately complete associated paperwork; must lead the employees of the manufacturing area by example in the areas of attitude, work quality, work ethic, dependability, and company loyalty.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. Primarily responsible for set-up, run, cleaning and general maintenance of various machines.
  2. Verifies through work orders that job processes and drawings are correct before production runs.
  3. Sets up machines according to applicable drawings within the defined setup times.
  4. Inspects the quality of the materials and work in process, specifically focusing on quality standard by checking registration and for debris and print quality.
  5. Troubleshoots and resolves machine-related issues including tension, pressure, and settings.
  6. Accurately processes and handles associated paperwork as required for the work being completed.
  7. Completes work in a timely manner according to department schedules.
  8. Operates multiple machines fluently with a minimal amount of supervision.
  9. Leads the employees of the manufacturing area by example in the areas of attitude, work quality, work ethics, dependability, and company loyalty.
  10. Communicates and works together with other departments as required.
  11. Maintains and improves 5S within the work area.
  12. Regular and reliable attendance is an essential function of this job. Punctuality and regular attendance are crucial for efficient plant operations, safety, and morale.
  13. Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned as required.

AUTHORITY

  1. Alerts management of problems with materials, tools, fixtures, machinery, etc.
  2. Requests necessary supplies and resources required to complete the jobs assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS

  1. Mechanical aptitude.
  2. Experience using measuring devices including rulers, comparators, calipers, and gauges to collect and record data.
  3. Must be able to communicate in English: read, write, and understand.
  4. Able to work smart and at a brisk and safe pace.
  5. Able to communicate and work with others as a team.
  6. Able to read and understand assembly drawings and build product accordingly.
  7. Able to adjust and adapt when obstacles present themselves.
  8. Strong attention to detail.
  9. Able to recognize quality problems with materials and work in process.
  10. Able to use required tools, fixtures, rulers, etc. involved in the assembly process.
  11. Ability to lead and influence others by example in the areas of attitude, work quality, work ethic, dependability, and company loyalty.
  12. Good work attendance and dependability.
  13. Must be able to pass the Operator Assessment test, FORM 2660.
  14. If working nights or shifts with minimal supervision, must pass a criminal background check.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Job requires the employee to stand. The employee is frequently required to use hands to grasp, finger or handle objects and reach with hands. The employee must occasionally lift and/or exert force from 25 up to 65 pounds. Push and/or pull up to 300 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, depth perception, and color determination.

Must have passed Physical Profile Capacity and physical, specifically geared for the position, as determined necessary by the company's Occupational Health partner.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Running machinery in the Machine Room, Gel Lab, and/or Print Lab.

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