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Metallography Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Quality Engineer

Austin, TX ยท On-site

$87K - $118K/yr

... metallography preparation and analysis equipment, and related QC systems-while assisting with equipment qualification, calibration, validation, and continuous improvement initiatives. The position ...

Senior Quality Engineer

Austin, TX

$89K - $120K/yr

... metallography preparation and analysis equipment, and related QC systems--while assisting with equipment qualification, calibration, validation, and continuous improvement initiatives. The position ...

Expert Technician

Mclean, VA ยท 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 ...

Expert Technician

Mclean, VA ยท 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 ...

Data includes tensile, corrosion, metallography, chemistry and other types of testing of metals. * Refer test discrepancies to the responsible metallurgist for resolution. * Review production reports ...

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Metallography information

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How much do metallography jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 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 jobs pay 2000 a day?

High-paying jobs that can reach $2,000 a day often include specialized roles such as senior metallographers, consulting engineers, or project managers in industries like aerospace, oil and gas, or manufacturing. These positions typically require advanced skills, certifications, and significant experience, and may involve consulting or contract work with high hourly rates. Such roles are usually found in industries with complex technical requirements and high safety standards.

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 experienced professionals or those with specialized skills can earn over $100,000 annually.

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 area within metallurgy, typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, but experienced professionals with certifications and skills in microscopy and materials analysis can earn higher wages, often comparable to other engineering or technical roles in manufacturing and research 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.
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:
Infographic showing various Metallography job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $48,261 per year, or $23.2 per hour.
Foundry Quality Supervisor

Foundry Quality Supervisor

Farrar Corporation

Cheney, KS โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Position: Foundry Quality Supervisor
Position Reports to: Foundry Engineering Manager
Positions Supervised: 2-3 Quality Technicians
Location: This is an on-site role located in Norwich, KS.
Employment Type: Full-Time / Salary - Exempt
Primarily a day shift with flexibility to support off shifts, as needed
Compensation: Competitive salary based on experience
Role Overview
The foundry Quality Supervisor is responsible for overall metallurgical integrity, foundry process control, and quality assurance within a green sand, ductile iron foundry. This role ensures that materials, processes, and finished castings meet internal standards, ASTM requirements and customer specifications. The position serves as the primary technical authority for metallurgy and foundry quality, leads defect analysis and continuous improvement efforts, and acts as the foundry quality representative for customers. In addition, this role provides hands-on technical leadership across sand and molding processes, alloy and chemistry control, inspection systems, and documentation. The position supervises foundry quality technicians and plays a key role in improving safety, efficiency, yield and product consistency.
Primary Responsibilities
Quality Assurance & Customer Interface
  • Monitor iron chemistry, microstructure, mechanical properties, and heat treatment results to ensure conformance to ASTM and customer requirements.
  • Evaluate raw materials for quality consistency and cost effectiveness
  • Serve as the foundry quality representative for customers, including defect resolution, corrective actions, and casting returns
  • Lead root cause analysis for casting defects, scrap, and customer issues; implement and verify corrective actions
  • Ensure adherence to ISO 9001 and applicable quality system requirements
  • Perform quality inspections and signoff for pattern changes, job changes, grinding operations, and process modifications
  • Provide technical and quality input for quoting activities and special customer requirements
Laboratory & Technical Leadership
  • Direct and oversee all foundry laboratory activities, including spectrographic analysis, tensile testing, hardness testing, metallography, and sand testing
  • Supervise and train lab personnel and foundry quality technicians
  • Serve as technical backup for lab operations during personnel absences
Process Control & Continuous Improvement
  • Develop, maintain, and update quality and process documentation covering molding, core making, melting, finishing, inspection, and lab operations
  • Lead and support continuous improvement initiatives to reduce scrap, improve yield, increase efficiency, and enhance process stability
  • Recommend and implement new testing methods, process controls, technologies, and equipment upgrades
  • Support safety, efficiency, and standardization initiatives across foundry operations
General
  • Collaborate closely with engineering, production, maintenance, and quality teams to support foundry objectives
  • Utilize Microsoft Office tools for analysis, reporting, and communication
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the Foundry Engineering Manager
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in manufacturing-related field (relevant experience may be substituted in lieu of a degree)
  • Manufacturing or foundry environment experience required
  • Proficiency with lab testing equipment (spectrometer, tensile testing, hardness testing, metallography, sand testing, etc.)
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
  • Prior supervisory or team leadership experience required

Preferred Qualifications
  • Strong knowledge of ductile iron metallurgy, alloys, solidification, heat treatment, and failure analysis
  • 3-5+ years of quality experience in a foundry or metals manufacturing environment
  • Knowledge of ISO 9001 quality systems
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Commitment to continuous professional development

Physical & Work Environment Requirements
  • Frequent exposure to heat, dust, noise and industrial equipment
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods
  • Ability to lift 25-50lb castings occasionally
  • Required use of PPE (hard hat, safety glasses, steel toe boots)

Farrar Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer in accordance with applicable laws.