Laboratory Technician

The Laboratory Technician (Metallurgy) is responsible for supporting the Quality Department by performing metallurgical sample preparation, testing and analysis, and preparing technical reports to ensure components, materials and processes meet customer, regulatory, and internal specifications. The Laboratory Technician works to the highest standard while ensuring compliance with customer requirements and AS9100/ISO9001 and associated regulatory standards. This is a critical role in supporting the manufacture of industrial and aerospace gas turbine engine components where safety, quality, and traceability are paramount.

PRIMARY ACCOUNTABILITIES:

Metallurgical Preparation, Analysis & Testing

• Prepare metallurgical samples through sectioning, mounting, grinding, polishing, and etching techniques.
• Conduct metallurgical examinations using optical microscopy and associated laboratory equipment.
• Evaluate material structures, coatings, heat treatment conditions, and manufacturing processes against applicable specifications and standards.
• Identify and investigate material anomalies, defects, and non-conformances.
• Support failure investigations and root cause analysis activities.

Reporting & Documentation

• Produce accurate and detailed technical reports following metallurgical evaluations and testing activities.
• Record, maintain, and archive laboratory data in line with customer, company, and regulatory requirements.
• Ensure full traceability of samples, test results, and supporting documentation.
• Communicate findings effectively to Quality, Manufacturing, Engineering, and Management teams.

Laboratory Equipment & Housekeeping

• Operate, control, adjust, and maintain laboratory equipment in accordance with approved procedures.
• Monitor equipment performance and report maintenance or calibration requirements.
• Ensure laboratory equipment remains clean, serviceable, and fit for purpose.
• Maintain laboratory housekeeping to the highest standards.

Health, Safety & Environmental Compliance

• Comply with all company Health, Safety, and Environmental requirements.
• Ensure safe handling, storage, and disposal of laboratory materials and chemicals.
• Report hazards, incidents, and unsafe conditions promptly.
• Actively contribute to maintaining a safe working environment.
• Any other duties deemed suitable by your line manager and as reasonably required by the business.

REQUIREMENTS:

• HNC/HND, NVQ Level 3, Apprenticeship, or equivalent qualification in Metallurgy, Materials Science, Engineering, Chemistry, or a related technical discipline.
• Practical experience of metallurgical and/or chemical testing with analysis and technical report writing.
• Ability to understand, interpret and report metallurgical findings accurately.
• Eligibility to work in the UK.

DESIRABLE:

• Experience within aerospace, gas turbine, power generation, defence, or other highly regulated manufacturing sectors.
• Experience evaluating coatings, heat-treated materials, brazed assemblies, weldments, or cast components.
• Experience using advanced materials characterisation techniques such as SEM, EDS/EDX, XRF, or hardness testing methods.
• Familiarity with AS9100, NADCAP and ISO17025 requirements.

EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & SKILLS:

Education

• Degree qualification in Metallurgy, Materials Science, or Engineering desirable.
• Consideration may be given to qualifications and / or experience in the pharmaceutical industry.

Experience

• Experience working within a manufacturing, aerospace, engineering, or other high-technology environment.
• Understanding of a broad range of metallic materials and manufacturing processes.
• Understanding of critical safety and airworthiness requirements.
• Experience supporting problem-solving, root cause analysis, and corrective action activities.

Skills

• Understanding of laboratory equipment operation, control, calibration, and adjustment.
• Understanding of customer specifications, drawing requirements, and industry standards.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to communicate technical information effectively at all levels of the organisation.
• Ability to work as part of a small technical team and independently.
• Highly organised with exceptional attention to detail.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications.

Careers