Metallurgical Engineer - ADL AZ

Steel Dynamics•Benson, AZ

15d

About The Position

The Casting Metallurgical Engineer is responsible for developing, controlling, and optimizing aluminum melting and casting processes to consistently produce high-quality ingot for can body stock applications. This role focuses on melt quality, alloy chemistry, filtration, solidification control, and defect prevention while supporting initial equipment installation, commissioning, startup, and ongoing production.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Metallurgical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related discipline
2–5 years of hands-on experience in an aluminum cast house environment
Strong knowledge of aluminum alloys and DC casting processes

Nice To Haves

Experience with molten aluminum filtration and cleanliness control
Understanding of aluminum phase diagrams, solidification behavior, and defect mechanisms
Familiarity with industry standards (ASTM, ISO)
Proficiency with metallurgical lab equipment (microscopes, spectrometers, LiMCA and PoDFA testing)
Working knowledge of SPC and process data analysis tools
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
Exposure to can body stock casting, rolling, finishing, or can-making operations is a plus but not required

Responsibilities

Develop, implement, and refine aluminum melting and DC casting practices consistent with the rolling mill’s melt/cast shop
Control alloy chemistry, furnace operations, degassing, filtration, and solidification parameters
Monitor casting water chemistry and cooling practices to ensure process stability
Perform melt chemistry analysis, microstructure evaluation, and mechanical testing
Implement quality control procedures to ensure product meets internal and customer specifications
Prepare technical reports summarizing findings, trends, and improvement recommendations
Conduct molten metal cleanliness testing using LiMCA and PoDFA methodologies
Apply principles of molten aluminum filtration, including deep bed and ceramic filtration systems
Investigate casting defects such as porosity, cracking, shrinkage, and inclusions
Perform root cause analysis and recommend corrective actions to improve yield and reduce scrap
Work closely with production, quality, maintenance, and engineering teams
Train production operators on melt/casting procedures, molten metal safety and quality requirements
Collaborate with the Aluminum Dynamics technical casting team in Columbus/Starkville, MS
Support process optimization initiatives focused on safety, productivity, cost, and sustainability
Manage day-to-day melting and casting practices to ensure consistent ingot quality
Conduct metallurgical lab testing, including chemical analysis and microstructural evaluation
Monitor and document metal cleanliness and casting process parameters