Heat Treat Specialist

Engine Power Components•Grand Haven, MI

7d•Onsite

About The Position

The Heat Treat Specialist is responsible for supporting the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of heat-treating processes for new and existing products. This role is highly hands-on, requiring active involvement on the production floor as well as in the metallurgical lab. The position ensures product quality, process consistency, and supports troubleshooting and process optimization efforts.

Requirements

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Metallurgy, Materials Science, or related field or equivalent hands-on experience
2–5+ years of experience in heat treating or metallurgical lab environment
Strong understanding of metallurgical principles including steel properties and heat treatment response
Experience with hardness testing, microstructure evaluation, and lab procedures
Hands-on experience in a manufacturing environment
Strong problem-solving skills and mechanical aptitude
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively

Nice To Haves

Experience with induction heat treating processes
Familiarity with quenching methods and distortion control
Experience with APQP / PPAP documentation and requirements
Experience in automotive or heavy industrial manufacturing

Responsibilities

Ensure all products meet customer specifications and internal quality standards
Support development and implementation of heat treat processes for new product launches
Assist in optimizing existing processes to improve quality, consistency, and throughput
Perform hands-on troubleshooting of heat treat and metallurgical-related issues on the shop floor
Conduct daily reviews (e.g., camera systems, process checks such as Millipore) to ensure operator compliance
Ensure incoming materials meet required certifications and specifications
Perform metallurgical inspections including microscopic and macroscopic examination, hardness testing, magnetic particle inspection, and etch conformance
Prepare samples including sectioning, mounting, polishing, and etching
Cut cross-sections and perform detailed measurements and evaluations
Perform measurement tasks associated with APQP and PPAP processes, including capability studies and ISIR layouts
Maintain and verify certification of testing equipment including gages, hardness testers, black lights, and ovens
Participate in internal audits and calibration system processes to ensure integrity of process standards
Support root cause analysis and corrective action activities; assist in ensuring timely completion
Train operators and process stakeholders on new or updated procedures; verify effectiveness through audits across all shifts
Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and safety standards; actively participate in safety improvements
Communicate with suppliers regarding incoming material quality and certification requirements
Support resolution of supplier non-conformance issues, including material discrepancies and returns (e.g., scrap reconciliation)
Order and maintain inventory of lab supplies and testing materials
Perform mixing and handling of chemicals in accordance with safety and process requirements
Support maintenance activities including cleaning and recharging equipment (e.g., magnetic particle inspection systems)
Assist with equipment setup, validation, and process adjustments