Metallurgy - Testing Manager (Aerospace)

The Metallurgy Testing Manager is responsible for leading a metallurgical laboratory that performs materials characterization, failure analysis, and mechanical testing. This role oversees laboratory operations, technical staff, equipment, quality systems, and customer projects to ensure accurate, timely, and compliant metallurgical evaluations. The manager ensures testing meets industry standards and regulatory requirements while supporting engineering, manufacturing, and customer needs.Key ResponsibilitiesLaboratory OperationsManage daily operations of the metallurgical testing laboratory including sample intake, testing, reporting, and turnaround times.Oversee metallurgical evaluations such as microstructure analysis, hardness testing, grain size determination, and coating analysis.Ensure proper operation, calibration, and maintenance of laboratory equipment (microscopes, hardness testers, polishing/sectioning equipment, SEM/EDS where applicable).Technical LeadershipProvide expert guidance in metallurgy, materials characterization, and failure analysis.Review and approve metallurgical reports and technical conclusions.Support root cause investigations involving material failures, heat treatment issues, corrosion, and manufacturing defects.Develop new test methods and capabilities based on industry or client needs.Quality & ComplianceEnsure laboratory compliance with standards such as: ISO / ISO/IEC 17025ASTM InternationalSAE InternationalNadcap (if aerospace related)Maintain quality procedures, work instructions, and documentation.Support internal and external audits and accreditation activities.Team ManagementLead, mentor, and develop metallurgists, lab technicians, and materials engineers.Assign projects, monitor workloads, and ensure staff training and certification.Recruit and develop talent within the laboratory.Customer & Project SupportInterface with customers, engineering teams, and program managers to define testing requirements.Prepare technical proposals, cost estimates, and timelines.Present metallurgical findings to clients and internal stakeholders.Business & Strategic DevelopmentIdentify opportunities to expand laboratory capabilities and services.Support sales teams with technical expertise during client engagements.Manage laboratory budgets, equipment investments, and operational metrics.QualificationsEducationBachelor's or Master's degree in Metallurgical EngineeringMaterials Science, or related discipline.Experience8-12+ years in metallurgical or materials testing environments.Experience with laboratory management or technical leadership.Background in failure analysis, microstructural evaluation, and mechanical testing.Technical SkillsMetallography preparation and analysisOptical microscopy and scanning electron microscopyHardness testing (Rockwell, Vickers, Knoop)Heat treatment evaluationCorrosion and coating analysisMaterials standards and specifications (ASTM, AMS, MIL)Leadership SkillsStrong project management and team leadership capabilitiesExcellent technical writing and reporting skillsCustomer-facing communication and problem-solvingPreferred ExperienceAerospace or defense materials testingAccreditation environments such as Nadcap or ISO/IEC 17025Experience supporting industries such as aerospace, automotive, medical devices, or energy.

Created: 2026-05-09