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Metallography Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

General Electric Company

Muskegon Metallographer

Muskegon, MI · On-site

$17.25 - $22.75/hr

Working from established procedures and under the direction of senior metallography or MESP staff, this role performs routine tasks such as cutting, mounting, grinding, polishing, etching samples ...

GE Aerospace

Muskegon Metallographer

Muskegon, MI · On-site

Working from established procedures and under the direction of senior metallography or MESP staff, this role performs routine tasks such as cutting, mounting, grinding, polishing, etching samples ...

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Metallography information

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$12

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$28

How much do metallography jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for metallography in Michigan is $20.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.15 and $23.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a Metallurgist a good career?

A metallurgist is a skilled professional who studies and analyzes metals and alloys, often working in manufacturing, research, or quality control environments. The career offers opportunities in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and materials development, with roles typically requiring a degree in metallurgical engineering or materials science. Job prospects are generally stable, with potential for advancement and specialization.

How much do Metallurgists get paid?

Metallurgists typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $90,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with specialized skills or advanced certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in industries like aerospace, automotive, or research labs.

What is the difference between Metallography vs Material Testing Technician?

AspectMetallographyMaterial Testing Technician
CertificationsTypically requires metallography or materials science certificationsOften requires NDT or materials testing certifications
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, manufacturing plantsTesting labs, quality control departments, industrial sites
Industry UsageUsed in metallurgy, aerospace, automotive, manufacturingUsed across manufacturing, construction, aerospace, and quality assurance

While both roles involve working with materials, Metallography focuses on preparing and analyzing metal microstructures, whereas Material Testing Technicians perform various tests to assess material properties. Both roles are essential in quality control and materials research, often overlapping in industry settings.

Do Metallurgists make good money?

Metallographers, a specialized role within metallurgy, typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, education, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, but experienced professionals with certifications and advanced skills can earn higher wages, especially in manufacturing, research, or quality control environments.

What careers can you pursue in metallurgy?

Metallography is a specialized field within metallurgy that involves analyzing and studying the microstructure of metals and alloys. Careers in metallurgy include roles such as metallurgical engineer, materials scientist, quality control technician, and research and development specialist, often requiring knowledge of materials testing, microscopy, and industry standards. These professionals work in manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and research laboratories, utilizing tools like microscopes and spectrometers to ensure material performance and safety.

What are some common challenges metallographers face when preparing samples for microscopic analysis?

One of the primary challenges in metallography is ensuring that samples are properly prepared without introducing artifacts, such as scratches or deformation, which can obscure the true microstructure. This requires careful sectioning, mounting, grinding, polishing, and etching, all tailored to the material being studied. Additionally, working with a variety of metals and alloys often means adapting preparation techniques and troubleshooting unexpected issues, making attention to detail and problem-solving skills essential. Collaboration with materials engineers and quality control teams is also common to interpret results accurately and meet project goals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Metallographer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Metallographer, you need a solid background in materials science, metallurgical analysis, and sample preparation, often supported by a degree in materials science or engineering. Familiarity with laboratory equipment such as optical and electron microscopes, hardness testers, and image analysis software is typically required. Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and strong documentation skills are essential soft skills for success in this role. These competencies ensure accurate material evaluation and reporting, which are critical for quality control and research in manufacturing and engineering industries.

What is metallography?

Metallography is the study of the physical structure and components of metals, typically using microscopy. It involves preparing samples of metals or alloys, observing their microstructure with specialized equipment, and analyzing features such as grain size, phase distribution, and defects. Metallography is essential for understanding the properties and performance of metals in various applications, from manufacturing to failure analysis. Professionals in this field help ensure material quality and contribute to research and development in materials science.
What are popular job titles related to Metallography jobs in Michigan? For Metallography jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Metallography jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Metallography jobs in Michigan are:
Metallography jobs near you
Infographic showing various Metallography job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 7% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,381 per year, or $20.4 per hour.
Metallography Supervisor

Metallography Supervisor

Howmet Aerospace

Whitehall, MI

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Howmet Aerospace rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 160 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 71 rated aerospace companies

Job description

This position will have technical and supervisory responsibility for the Metallography laboratory in the Howmet Research Center (HRC), located in Whitehall, Michigan.  The ideal candidate will have previous experience in a supervisory role as well as experience in manufacturing and a materials testing lab.

Primary Responsibilities

•    Hiring, training and qualification of technicians.
•    Procurement, qualification and maintenance of instruments and software.
•    Maintenance of laboratory procedures.
•    Employee performance reviews and attendance. 
•    Participate and perform in internal and external audits. 
•    Obtain qualification to performance of Metallographic Analysis. 
•    Perform metallographic analysis, as needed.
•    Participate in the HRC Quality Assurance program, including ownership of audit preparation and corrective action for the Metallography Lab.
•    Other tasks as assigned by supervision.
 


Basic Qualifications

•    BS degree in Materials, Metallurgical, Ceramic, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering from an accredited institution OR  Bachelors degree in any field with five (5) years of Metallography experience.
•    Experience in a materials testing Lab, investment casting production or other high temperature alloy manufacturer.
•    Employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States.  Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.  Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
•    This position entails access to export-controlled items and employment offers are conditioned upon an applicants ability to lawfully obtain access to such items.
 

Preferred Qualifications

•    Experience using Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
•    Experience with ASTM test methods.
•    Experience with third party accreditations, such as AS9100, Nadcap and ISO17025.
•    Experience with using preparing metallographic specimens, using microscopes and performing microhardness testing
•    Experience with superalloys,,  titanium alloys, and aerospace coatings.
•    Manufacturing/Industrial experience. 
•    3+ years experience in working in a materials testing laboratory.
•    Supervisory experience is highly desired.
 

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About Howmet Aerospace

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE: HWM), headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a leading global provider of advanced engineered solutions for the aerospace and transportation industries. The Company's sales for 2021 approximated $5 billion. The Company's primary businesses focus on jet engine components, aerospace fastening systems, titanium structural parts and forged wheels. With nearly 1,150 granted and pending patents, the Company's differentiated technologies promote more fuel efficiency for aircraft and commercial transportation. Howmet is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Industry

Aviation

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Pittsburgh, PA, US

Year founded

1888

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