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Metallography Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Genex Systems

Metals Research Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

... metallography, fractography, and common metallic property characterization tests (which may include ASTM E8, ASTM E9, ASTM E18, ASTM E23, ASTM E399, ASTM E1820, ASTM E1921, and ASTM F606). Excellent ...

Genex Systems

Metals Research Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

... metallography, fractography, and common metallic property characterization tests (which may include ASTM E8, ASTM E9, ASTM E18, ASTM E23, ASTM E399, ASTM E1820, ASTM E1921, and ASTM F606). Excellent ...

Genex Systems

Metals Research Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

... metallography, fractography, and common metallic property characterization tests (which may include ASTM E8, ASTM E9, ASTM E18, ASTM E23, ASTM E399, ASTM E1820, ASTM E1921, and ASTM F606). Excellent ...

Genex Systems

Expert Technician

Mclean, VA · On-site

$38K - $52K/yr

... metallography specimen preparation. Qualifications: * Must have a Bachelor of Science degree with two years of engineering technician experience or completion of at least four years of technical ...

Genex Systems

Expert Technician

Mclean, VA · On-site

$38K - $52K/yr

... metallography specimen preparation. Qualifications: * Must have a Bachelor of Science degree with two years of engineering technician experience or completion of at least four years of technical ...

Genex Systems

Expert Technician

Mclean, VA · On-site

$38K - $52K/yr

... metallography specimen preparation. Qualifications: * Must have a Bachelor of Science degree with two years of engineering technician experience or completion of at least four years of technical ...

BWX Technologies

NME Technologist

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

Experience with the following: * root cause and/or failure analysis. * control of evolutions in a radiologically controlled environment. * performing metallographic preparation / metallography ...

BWX Technologies, Inc.

NME Technologist

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

Experience with the following: * root cause and/or failure analysis. * control of evolutions in a radiologically controlled environment. * performing metallographic preparation / metallography ...

All JobsMetallography JobsMetallography Jobs in Virginia

Metallography information

See Virginia salary details

$13

$22

$31

How much do metallography jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for metallography in Virginia is $22.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.10 and $25.48 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.
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Metallography jobs near you
Infographic showing various Metallography job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 5% 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 $46,935 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

Metals Research Engineer

Genex Systems

Mclean, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 5 hours ago

Job description

Genex Systems is seeking a Metals Research Engineer responsible for planning and conducting structural research projects for the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) at the Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center (TFHRC).

Experience should include metals used in the design, rating, and construction of bridges. Research-related experience should include familiarity with digital-to- analog data acquisition, sensor selection and wiring (strain gauges, accelerometers, tiltmeters, potentiometers, linear variable differential transducers, extensometers, and load cells), setup and operation of closed-loop servovalve controlled hydraulic systems, design of loading structures, digital image correlation, metallography, fractography, and common metallic property characterization tests (which may include ASTM E8, ASTM E9, ASTM E18, ASTM E23, ASTM E399, ASTM E1820, ASTM E1921, and ASTM F606).

Excellent oral and written communication skills are required, with the ability to write publication-ready research reports as well as participate and present during demonstration projects, seminars, committee meetings, and workshops.

Experience with additive manufacturing of metal materials is highly preferred.

Master's degree required with at least three years of hands-on experience planning, conducting, and reporting on structural engineering research