Materials Test Operator

Commonwealth Fusion Systems•Devens, MA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Commonwealth Fusion Systems (CFS) is seeking a Materials Test Operator to support its mechanical testing and characterization laboratory within the Materials Department. This role is crucial for the design and engineering of components for fusion systems and high-temperature superconducting (HTS) magnets. The operator will provide continuous support for both standard and custom mechanical testing, including tensile, compression, flexural, shear, and fatigue tests. Responsibilities also include specimen preparation, microscopy, data acquisition, reporting, equipment maintenance, and production line support. The laboratory is equipped with Universal Testing Machines (e.g., Instron), Load Cells, Extensometers, and capabilities for metallographic specimen preparation, microscopy, heat treatments, magnetic property evaluation, and other thermophysical tests.

Requirements

High school diploma/equivalency certificate or higher.
Minimum 2 years of experience with basic materials preparation and testing tools.
Minimum 2 years of experience with a variety of technical support skills including mechanical and electrical assembly, vacuum systems, cryogenic systems, soldering, and wiring.
Participate in and promote CFS' safety procedures and policies.
Desire to work in a fast-paced R&D environment with daily changes.
Meticulous attention to detail.
Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team of engineers, scientists, technical staff, and others.
Ability to rapidly execute short turnaround materials testing tasks.
Strong problem-solving skills, ability to approach new problems with creativity.
Strong written and oral communication skills and techniques.
Effective root cause analysis and problem-solving skills.
Proficient PC skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
Ability to comply with, interpret, and support procedures, work rules, and protocols.
Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
Perform activities such as typing, standing, or sitting for extended periods of time.
Dedication to safety to mitigate industrial hazards that may include heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, lead (Pb), high voltage, metallographic etchants, and cryogenics.
Willingness to travel or work required nights/weekends/on-call occasionally.

Nice To Haves

Experience with Instron-based mechanical test systems, Bluehill and Wavematrix software.
Testing to industry or international standards (e.g. ASTM D638, ASTM E8, ISO).
Experience working with cryogens such as Liquid Nitrogen and Liquid Helium.
Experience with strain-gage application.
Experience using electrical test devices.
Experience with metallographic sample preparation and analysis.
Experience with hazardous chemical use and management.
Experience with vacuum systems.
Experience operating shop equipment including horizontal band saws, drill presses, grinders/sanders, etc.
Ability to follow engineering procedures and instructions.
Understands materials testing and characterization equipment operations and processes.

Responsibilities

Prepare test specimens and perform laboratory experiments.
Contribute to continuous improvement in the materials test and characterization laboratory.
Support inventory management of consumable/spare parts and report for purchasing.
Execute materials test Jira tickets and QBench orders according to standard operating procedures.
Operate industry-standard and customized materials testing and characterization equipment, processes, and test methods.
Conduct materials testing independently under the guidance of a materials test engineer, including data management and reporting.
Perform mechanical testing, including destructive testing (Tensile, Compression, Flexural, Shear, Peel, and Fatigue) using Instron Universal Testing Machines, and custom testing in extreme environments over a range of temperatures.
Utilize instrumentation such as Load Cells, Torque Wrenches, Extensometers, Strain Gauges, Calipers, and Micrometers for accurate data acquisition.
Perform materials characterization, including metallographic sample preparation (cutting, grinding, polishing), microscopy, hardness testing, and magnetic and electrical testing.
Assist in installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting laboratory equipment, including calibration and alignment.
Assemble custom fixturing and test stands for unique R&D requirements.
Adapt to changes in lab operations, priorities, and schedules.
Maintain rigorous documentation with attention to detail, ensuring data integrity and effective troubleshooting.
Perform repeated tests while maintaining test quality.
Perform other related job duties as assigned by management.