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Industrial & Manufacturing > Metallurgist

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Short Description:

A Metallurgist is responsible for studying, developing, and evaluating metals and alloys to improve their performance, durability, and suitability for specific applications. They analyze material properties, conduct experiments, and collaborate with engineering and production teams to solve material-related challenges. The role involves developing new alloys, optimizing processing techniques, and ensuring compliance with industry and safety standards. Metallurgists help enhance product quality, manufacturing efficiency, and material innovation. Strong analytical, technical, and problem-solving skills are essential for success in this role.

Duties / Responsibilities:

  • Analyze metals and alloys to determine chemical composition, mechanical properties, and performance under various conditions
  • Conduct research and testing to develop new metal materials or improve existing ones for industrial applications
  • Perform failure analysis on metal components, identifying causes of defects or performance issues
  • Collaborate with engineers, designers, and production teams to select appropriate materials for specific applications
  • Develop and implement quality control procedures and metallurgical testing protocols for manufacturing processes
  • Prepare and interpret technical reports, charts, and metallographic analyses to support engineering decisions
  • Stay up-to-date with industry trends, emerging materials, and advanced metallurgical techniques
  • Advise on heat treatment, alloy selection, and surface treatment processes to optimize material performance
  • Ensure compliance with safety regulations, environmental standards, and industry best practices
  • Provide technical guidance and training to laboratory technicians, engineers, and production staff on metallurgical practices

Skills / Requirements / Qualifications

  • Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Metallurgical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field
  • Experience: 3–7 years of experience in metallurgical analysis, materials testing, or research and development
  • Technical Knowledge: Strong understanding of metallurgy, alloy behavior, heat treatment, and material testing methods
  • Analytical Skills: Ability to interpret complex data, perform failure analysis, and provide actionable recommendations
  • Problem-Solving: Skill in addressing material performance issues and optimizing metal properties for applications
  • Attention to Detail: Precision in laboratory testing, data recording, and reporting
  • Safety Awareness: Knowledge of laboratory and industrial safety standards, including handling of metals and chemicals
  • Communication: Effective verbal and written skills for presenting findings and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams

Job Zones

  • Title: Job Zone Five Extensive Preparation Needed
  • Education: Most of these occupations require graduate school. For example, they may require a master's degree, and some require a Ph.D., M.D., or J.D. (law degree).
  • Related Experience: Extensive skills, knowledge, and experience are needed for these occupations. Many require more than five years of experience. 
  • Job Training: Employees may need some on-the-job training, but most of these occupations assume that the person will already have the required skills, knowledge, work-related experience, or training.
  • Job Zone Examples: These occupations often involve coordinating, training, supervising, or managing the activities of others to accomplish goals. Very advanced communication and organizational skills are required. 
  • Specific Vocational Preparation in years: 4-7 years preparation (8.0 and above)

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