Metallography Lab Technician (Onsite)

RTX•West Des Moines, IA

4d•$43,400 - $82,600•Onsite

About The Position

Collins Aerospace is seeking a Metallography Lab Technician to support critical materials evaluation for engine nozzle components. The technician partners with engineering teams to prepare and analyze metallurgical samples used to validate materials, processes, and product quality. The role includes sample sectioning and mounting, microscopic analysis, and preparation of clear, data-driven reports. This is an onsite position in West Des Moines, Iowa.

Requirements

Typically requires a high school diploma, AA/AS degree, or other two-year post-high-school training, with a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience.
Must be a U.S. Person as defined in the job posting.

Nice To Haves

Experience performing or inspecting welding or brazing and an understanding of metallographic properties.
Materials analysis experience, preferably in a manufacturing environment.
Experience with microscopes, metallographs, hardness testers, and/or image analysis software such as Pax-it and Keyence control.
Associate's degree or certificate in welding or a similar technical field.

Responsibilities

Evaluate, characterize, and document materials, microstructures, and conditions resulting from a broad range of processes, particularly welding, brazing, and EDM.
Use sample preparation equipment such as sectioning saws, wire EDM machines, metallographic mounting presses, and grinding and polishing units.
Prepare and handle chemical reagents used to prepare metallurgical samples for microstructural analysis.
Use microscopes, metallographs, hardness testers, and image analysis software, including Pax-it and Keyence control.
Prepare samples and perform microstructural analysis; capture, analyze, and organize data into tables and figures; and document findings in material and process control laboratory reports.
Assist engineers with specimen preparation and testing for activities such as process development, failure analysis, and material defects investigation.
Coordinate test sample and part logistics.
Develop preparation techniques to evaluate new materials and processes.
Provide metallographic consultation and interpretation for internal and external customers.
Ensure testing follows specifications, laboratory procedures, and work instructions.
Troubleshoot laboratory equipment as needed.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
Three weeks of vacation for newly hired employees.
401(k) plan with employer matching and a separate employer retirement contribution.
Tuition reimbursement program.
Student Loan Repayment Program.
Life insurance and disability coverage.
Optional pet, home and auto, additional life and accident, critical illness, group legal, and identity theft protection coverage.
Birth, adoption, and parental leave benefits.
Fertility and family planning support.
Adoption assistance.
Autism Benefit.
Employee Assistance Plan, including up to 10 free counseling sessions.
Wellness rewards program.
Virtual doctor visits.
Child and elder care services.
Second-opinion medical service.
Flexible spending accounts.
Flexible work schedules.
Paid time off and holidays.
Potential annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation, subject to eligibility and program conditions.