Metallurgy Technician Lead

Element Materials Technology•Huntington Beach, CA

12h•$26 - $36

About The Position

We are seeking a skilled and proactive Metallurgical Technician to serve as a Shift Lead, responsible for coordinating metallurgical testing, sample preparation and ensuring operational excellence across the lab. This position combines hands-on technical expertise with leadership, scheduling, and resource management responsibilities to support company goals in Safety, Quality, Delivery, and Cost (SQDC).

Requirements

Minimum 2 years of hands-on experience in metallurgical preparation and testing
Familiar with Struers polishing equipment
Familiar with Allied Presse operations
Ability to interpret technical drawings, specifications, and quality documentation.
Understanding of ASTM testing and preparation methods
Understanding of Struers hardness testers
Strong organizational and scheduling capabilities.
Excellent communication and cross-departmental collaboration.
Detail-oriented with a strong focus on accuracy and data integrity.
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in a high-temperature lab environment.
Extended periods of standing, bending, and manual work.
Use of appropriate PPE including heat-resistant gloves, face shields, and safety glasses.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s degree in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering Technology, or equivalent technical training preferred.
Six Sigma Yellow belt training recommended.

Responsibilities

Lead daily shift operations in the metallurgy lab, ensuring smooth execution of met preparation, metallurgical testing and production schedules.
Scheduling: Develop and maintain the department’s daily, weekly, and project-based schedules to ensure resources are appropriately allocated and deadlines are met.
Serve as the primary liaison for shift-to-shift communication and coordination with other departments, including engineering, maintenance, and quality.
Support and mentor technicians, fostering a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
Coordinate and oversee all testing and preparation activities to ensure accuracy, compliance with specifications, and timely completion of test.
Verify and validate tests and preparation specifications as well as output data
Collaborate Element HB Customer Service Representatives to provide real-time updates on test progress and completion timelines.
Ensure all tests are conducted and recorded in accordance with company quality standards and customer requirements.
Support internal and external audits by maintaining complete and accurate documentation.
SQDC Leadership: Lead the department’s SQDC activities and reporting, ensuring continuous alignment with organizational performance goals.
Consumables Tracking: Monitor and manage inventory of consumables, ensuring timely ordering and availability of necessary supplies to prevent downtime.
5S Project Leadership: Drive and report on 5S initiatives to maintain a clean, organized, and efficient laboratory environment.
Identify and implement process improvements to enhance safety, data reliability, and testing throughput.