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Metallography Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lab Tech 6 (Machinist)

Monroe, NC · On-site

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

METALLOGRAPHY METALLOGRAPHY PREPARATION (INCLUDING MOUNTING, POLISHING, AND ETCHING SAMPLES); USE LABORATORY MICROSCOPE TO EVALUATE GRAIN STRUCTURE AS TO SIZE, UNIFORMITY, INCLUSIONS AND OTHER ...

Lab Tech 6 (Machinist)

Monroe, NC

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

METALLOGRAPHY METALLOGRAPHY PREPARATION (INCLUDING MOUNTING, POLISHING, AND ETCHING SAMPLES); USE LABORATORY MICROSCOPE TO EVALUATE GRAIN STRUCTURE AS TO SIZE, UNIFORMITY, INCLUSIONS AND OTHER ...

Lab Tech 6 (Machinist)

Monroe, NC · On-site

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

METALLOGRAPHY METALLOGRAPHY PREPARATION (INCLUDING MOUNTING, POLISHING, AND ETCHING SAMPLES); USE LABORATORY MICROSCOPE TO EVALUATE GRAIN STRUCTURE AS TO SIZE, UNIFORMITY, INCLUSIONS AND OTHER ...

Lab Tech 6 (Machinist)

Monroe, NC

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

METALLOGRAPHY METALLOGRAPHY PREPARATION (INCLUDING MOUNTING, POLISHING, AND ETCHING SAMPLES); USE LABORATORY MICROSCOPE TO EVALUATE GRAIN STRUCTURE AS TO SIZE, UNIFORMITY, INCLUSIONS AND OTHER ...

Lab Tech 6 (Machinist)

Monroe, NC

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

METALLOGRAPHY METALLOGRAPHY PREPARATION (INCLUDING MOUNTING, POLISHING, AND ETCHING SAMPLES); USE LABORATORY MICROSCOPE TO EVALUATE GRAIN STRUCTURE AS TO SIZE, UNIFORMITY, INCLUSIONS AND OTHER ...

... 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 ...

Lab Tech 6 (Machinist)

Monroe, NC

$17.50 - $23.50/hr

METALLOGRAPHY METALLOGRAPHY PREPARATION (INCLUDING MOUNTING, POLISHING, AND ETCHING SAMPLES); USE LABORATORY MICROSCOPE TO EVALUATE GRAIN STRUCTURE AS TO SIZE, UNIFORMITY, INCLUSIONS AND OTHER ...

... 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 ...

... 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 ...

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Metallography information

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How much do metallography jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for metallography in the United States is $23.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.67 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.
More about Metallography jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Metallography jobs? The most popular types of Metallography jobs are:
What states have the most Metallography jobs? States with the most job openings for Metallography jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Metallography jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Metallography jobs are:
Infographic showing various Metallography job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $48,261 per year, or $23.2 per hour.
Materials Research Technicians (Research Tec 3/4)

Materials Research Technicians (Research Tec 3/4)

Los Alamos National Laboratory

Los Alamos, NM • On-site

$16.25 - $22.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday


Los Alamos National Laboratory rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 103 rated laboratories


Job description

Description
Job Title Materials Research Technicians (Research Tec 3/4)
Location Los Alamos, NM, US
Organization Name MST-DO/Materials Science & Technology
Minimum Salary
Maximum Salary
This position is open for external candidates only to apply.
What You Will Do
This position will be filled at either the Research Tec 3 or 4 level, depending on the skills of the selected candidate. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if the candidate is hired at the higher level.
The Plutonium Microstructure and Mechanics Group (MST-15) is seeking Research Technicians to support plutonium and other actinide materials science research. In this role, you will provide support in one or more of the following areas: metallography, electron microscopy, materials characterization, materials synthesis and processing, materials properties measurements, and dynamic mechanical testing. Your day-to-day work will focus on small-scale sample preparation, operating and maintaining equipment, executing experiments, and other activities supporting MST-15 programs. If you are detail-oriented, this is an opportunity to learn established procedures, processes, and requirements to perform complex work in a unique environment on materials with a strong national security impact.
What You Need
Minimum Job Requirements:

Research Tec 3 ($66,100 - $ 103,600)
  • Candidate must have hands-on experience with hand and power tools.
  • Experience completing assigned tasks thoroughly to completion with a high attention to detail and limited supervision.
  • Experience learning new skills/techniques and adapting to changing work scope environments.
  • Experience working well in a team environment toward the accomplishment of common goals and interact effectively with peers and management.
  • Experience following written and verbal instructions, procedures, plans and Laboratory requirements and maintain required training.
  • Basic knowledge of and experience in computer systems and associated applications.
  • Ability and willingness to follow safety and security procedures.
  • Ability to obtain Q-clearance, which normally requires U.S. Citizenship.
  • Ability to obtain Human Reliability Program certification.
Research Tec 4 ($72,800 - $ 115,400)
In addition to what was outlined at the lower level, requirements at this level include:
  • Knowledge or experience related to metallography, electron microscopy, materials characterization, materials processing and properties measurements, mechanical and dynamic testing, and/or maintenance of scientific equipment.
  • Ability to work independently, make decisions and initiate work.
  • Ability to perform non-routine tasks, exercising independent judgment.
Education / Experience Research Tec 3: Position requires an Associate's Degree and 3 years of related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.
Education / Experience Research Tec 4: Position requires an Associate's Degree and 5 years of related experience; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation
Desired Qualifications:
  • Experience operating analytical equipment and obtaining data.
  • Experience operating machining equipment and/or custom design using software.
  • Experience maintaining and troubleshooting vacuum, gas, and pressure systems in a research environment.
  • Experience in performing or supporting scientific experiments.
  • Experience in handling, preparation, and analysis of small samples for metallography, electron microscopy, materials characterization, materials processing and properties measurements, or mechanical and dynamic testing.
  • Nuclear or radiological facility experience and performing routine glove box activities with radioactive materials.

Essential Job Functions (can perform with or without reasonable accommodation) : Essential Job Functions: Peripheral vision, depth perception, reading vision and distance vision (corrected), ability to hear in a normal range (500 to 3000 Hertz), standing, walking, and lifting 20-30 pounds.
Work Environment: Work near sources of ionizing radiation, work with explosives, use of PPE including a respirator.
Work Location: The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.
Position commitment: Regular appointment employees are required to serve a period of continuous service in their current position in order to be eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the time required, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. The position commitment for this position is 1 year.
Note to Applicants: A current C.V. or resume with at least the following information is required: educational background, work experience, and degree dates. Degrees in a STEM field beyond the minimum requirement count toward years of related experience. References will not be contacted without applicant permission.
Due to federal restrictions contained in the current National Defense Authorization Act, citizens of the People's Republic of China-including the special administrative regions of Hong Kong and Macau-as well as citizens of the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea), and the Russian Federation, who are not Lawful Permanent Residents ("green card" holders) are prohibited from accessing facilities that support the mission, functions, and operations of national security laboratories and nuclear weapons production facilities, which includes Los Alamos National Laboratory.
Where You Will Work
Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes:
  • PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network
  • Dental and vision insurance
  • Free basic life and disability insurance
  • Paid maternity and parental leave
  • Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)
  • Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
  • Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)
  • Onsite gyms and wellness programs
  • Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)

Additional Details
Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2 . Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States. Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.
Clearance: Q (Position will be cleared to this level). Selected applicants will be subject to a background investigation conducted by or on behalf of the Federal Government, and must meet eligibility requirements* for access to classified matter. This position requires a Q clearance, and obtaining such clearance requires US Citizenship except in extremely rare circumstances. Dependent upon the position, additional authorization to access classified information may be required, which may or may not be available to dual citizens. Receipt of a Q clearance and additional access authorization ultimately is a decision of the Federal Government and not of Triad.
*Eligibility requirements: To obtain a clearance, an individual must be at least 18 years of age; U.S. citizenship is required except in very limited circumstances. See DOE Order 472.2 for additional information.
HRP: This position is subject to the requirements of the DOE Human Reliability Program as specified in 10 Code of Federal Regulation, Part 712, §712.11. These requirements include on going drug and alcohol testing, as well as periodic medical and psychological evaluations.
426.2A: This position is subject to DOE Order 426.2A, Personnel Selection, Training, and Qualification Requirements for DOE Nuclear Facilities, which establishes entry-level requirements to ensure candidates selected for specific positions can successfully perform the requirements of the job.
New-Employment Drug Test: The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing. Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use was pre-offer.
Equal Opportunity: Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to protected categories such as race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal, state, and local laws and regulations. The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to applyhelp@lanl.gov or call (505)-664-6947.
Employment Status Full Time
Appointment Type Regular
Regular
Contact Details
Contact Name Pincheira Dennett, Marcela
Email marcelap@lanl.gov
Work Telephone

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