Optical Lab Manager Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Hydro Extrusions is a world-leading aluminium extrusion business counting around 100 production sites in 40 countries and employing 20,000 people. Through our unique combination of local expertise, global network, and unmatched R&D capabilities, we can offer everything from standards profiles to advanced development and manufacturing for most industries. Since 1905, Hydro has turned natural resources into valuable products for people and businesses with focus on a safe and good workplace for our 30,000 employees in more than 140 locations.
What we offer you

• Medical, RX, Dental, Disability, Life Insurance, Flexible Spending Accounts
• Retirement Savings Plans with Company Match/Contributions
• Education Assistance
• Bonus Plan Eligibility
• Parental Leave

Pay Range: $82,640-$112,396
What you will be doing
Job Summary: The Lab Engineer plays a critical role in ensuring the quality and compliance of aluminum extruded products. This position involves performing BQA, mechanical testing, and, in some cases, metallurgical testing to verify material properties and dimensions against customer requirements and industry standards (e.g., Aluminum Standards Association guidelines). The Lab Engineer will complete chemical analysis and material qualification testing, conduct testing required for root cause analysis of quality claims, and at times travel for plant support. The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, mechanically inclined, and committed to maintaining a safe and efficient laboratory environment. This role's primary function is to prepare and perform rigorous testing and metallurgical analysis on aluminum products and report the results.
Essential Job Responsibilities:
Equipment Operations: Safely and accurately operate laboratory equipment, including but not limited to tensile testing machines, micrometers, calipers, OES, SEM, Keyence systems, age ovens, hardness testers, and other metallurgical analysis tools.
Documentation & Reporting: Accurately record all test and analysis results, maintain detailed logs, and input data into relevant systems.
Maintenance & Calibration: Perform routine checks, maintenance, and calibration on laboratory instruments and equipment to ensure accuracy and reliability of results.
Safety & Housekeeping: Adhere strictly to all company safety protocols, maintain a clean and organized work area, and manage hazardous waste according to regulations.
Quality Testing:

• Perform a variety of tests on aluminum materials per internal and external customer work orders.
• Prepare samples and conduct metallurgical analysis utilizing light optical microscopy.
• Prepare, analyze, and report mechanical properties of aluminum extrusions in accordance with testing procedures and customer-required specifications.
• Perform monthly Billet Quality Assessment (BQA) reporting for regional cast houses.
• Conduct mechanical testing (tensile yield elongation, hardness, bend testing, and other testing as required).
• Perform chemical analysis (OES, etc.).
• Conduct SEM/EDS metallography.
• Drive continuous improvements throughout the lab utilizing the Extrusion Business System (EBS) methodology.

What will make you successful?

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent. (required)
• Associate's degree or Science/Technical School Degree. (required)
• Previous hands on work experience in a Testing Lab for materials analysis. (required)
• Good mechanical aptitude to safely and efficiently operate equipment including testing equipment, band saw, polishing machines, aging ovens, etc. (preferred)
• Aluminum or Steel manufacturing experience. (preferred)
• Experience with SEM/EDS, Keyence, and other metallurgical analysis tools. (preferred)

Equal opportunities
Hydro in North America is an Equal Opportunity Employer where all phases of employment are based strictly upon the qualifications of the individual as related to the work requirements of the position. This policy is applied without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, veteran status, marital status or any other category protected by law. We strive to provide equal opportunities for all to contribute and succeed with us.
As part of our recruitment process, we may use job-related assessments in selected roles. These tools help us better understand work-related strengths and support a fair and consistent hiring process. Any assessment results are reviewed together with your experience, qualifications, and interviews, and are never used as the sole basis for hiring decisions.
If you need an accommodation in order to complete the application, please contact Hydro Recruiting via email at recruiting.north.america@hydro.com
Possible work locations
Why Hydro?
Are you looking to make a real impact? For over a century, our people have been the driving force in solving some of the world's most pressing issues - and we hope you'll join us in solving the next century's. Whether you're working to close the loop at one of our recycling facilities or ensuring efficient renewable energy processes to decarbonize aluminium production, your contributions make an impact in our shared purpose of propelling our industries and the world into a greener future.
Why Hydro?
Are you looking to make a real impact? For over a century, our people have been the driving force in solving some of the world's most pressing issues - and we hope you'll join us in solving the next century's. Whether you're working to close the loop at one of our recycling facilities or ensuring efficient renewable energy processes to decarbonize aluminium production, your contributions make an impact in our shared purpose of propelling our industries and the world into a greener future.
A job where you make a difference
A key part of succeeding in this mission involves encouraging a collegial environment where our differences are acknowledged as our greatest competitive advantage.
Your diverse perspective makes us stronger. Our global diversity, inclusion and belonging program enables us to cultivate a high-performing and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued.
Your career journey is unique. We strive to provide you with the support needed to achieve your full potential. With our global reach, inclusive culture, and cutting-edge technology you'll have the opportunity to build a career that aligns with your strengths and passions.
Join our global community of over 30,000 people with a presence in 40 countries and united by the values of Care, Courage and Collaboration. At Hydro, you have the chance to make a difference in the industries that matter. Explore our world and the heart of our operations.
A job where you make a difference
A key part of succeeding in this mission involves encouraging a collegial environment where our differences are acknowledged as our greatest competitive advantage. Your diverse perspective makes us stronger. Our global diversity, inclusion and belonging program enables us to cultivate a high-performing and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued.
Your career journey is unique. We strive to provide you with the support needed to achieve your full potential. With our global reach, inclusive culture, and cutting-edge technology you'll have the opportunity to build a career that aligns with your strengths and passions. Join our global community of over 30,000 people with a presence in 40 countries and united by the values of Care, Courage and Collaboration. At Hydro, you have the chance to make a difference in the industries that matter. Explore our world and the heart of our operations.
A job where you make a difference
A key part of succeeding in this mission involves encouraging a collegial environment where our differences are acknowledged as our greatest competitive advantage. Your diverse perspective makes us stronger. Our global diversity, inclusion and belonging program enables us to cultivate a high-performing and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued.
Your career journey is unique. We strive to provide you with the support needed to achieve your full potential. With our global reach, inclusive culture, and cutting-edge technology you'll have the opportunity to build a career that aligns with your strengths and passions. Join our global community of over 30,000 people with a presence in 40 countries and united by the values of Care, Courage and Collaboration. At Hydro, you have the chance to make a difference in the industries that matter. Explore our world and the heart of our operations.
About Hydro

• Hydro is a leading aluminium and renewable energy company committed to a sustainable future
• Founded: 1905
• Number of employees: 32,000
• Company presence in around 40 countries worldwide
• President and CEO: Eivind Kallevik

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Hydro's talent community
Can't find the right job? Be the first one to learn about new job opportunities that might be a perfect fit for you.
Join Today