Analysis Skills, Continuous Improvement, Crushing, Detail Oriented, Document Imaging, Establish Priorities, Grinding, Housekeeping/Cleaning, Identify Issues, Laboratory, Laboratory Testing, Lift/Move 25 Pounds, Machining, Microsoft Office, Polishing, Quality Metrics, Safety/Work Safety, Team Player, Time Management, Waste Disposal
Title: Materials Technician II - Sample Preparation and Imaging
Location: Decker Lab, Corning, NY
40 hours a week, 100% On-Site
Max bill rate: $31/hr
Interview Process: Initial teams meeting with manager, then onsite interview if local. Local candidate are preferred for this position.
*Ultimate goal is eventual conversion, but there is no timeframe or guarantee of this*
Required Education and Experience:
* 2 year (AAS) technical degree
* 3+ years' machining experience: fabrication, cutting, and surface-finishing equipment
*This group is responsible for slicing, dicing, and polishing metal, ceramics and glass, imaging and then documentation. The machines are located in a lab. Manager might be willing to consider less than 3 years experience if the candidate has the right kind of experience.
LIFTING REQUIREMENT: 25 LBS MAX
SCOPE OF POSITION:
Support for a collaborative lab team that partners closely with engineering to turn ideas into real results. You'll primarily support lab testing by preparing high-quality samples for evaluation-cutting and performing metallographic preparation (mounting/grinding/polishing as applicable) and capturing micrographs using standard methods. This role is hands-on, detail-driven work with strong safety practices, and a steady focus on documentation and turnaround time.
Day to Day Responsibilities:
* Prepare samples for analysis by performing crushing, cutting, and/or sectioning using approved equipment and methods.
* Perform sample preparation steps as required (mounting, grinding, polishing, cleaning/etching as applicable) to meet quality standards for imaging and evaluation.
* Document work clearly (sample IDs, preparation parameters, observations, and any deviations) through internal work request system and reports through Microsoft Office applications.
* Coordinate with engineers/technicians on priorities, turnaround expectations, and any sample constraints or special handling needs.
* Maintain a clean and safe work area, follow PPE and chemical handling requirements, and support waste disposal practices.
* Support continuous improvement by identifying recurring prep issues (rework, defects, delays) and proposing practical fixes.
Required Skills:
* 3+ years machining experience: fabrication, cutting, and surface-finishing equipment
* Quality mindset and attention to detail (recognizing defects, avoiding contamination, repeatability)
* Safe work practices (PPE, chemical handling awareness, housekeeping/5S)
* Time management and prioritization skills to meet turnaround needs
* Communication and teamwork skills (clarifying requirements with engineers/technicians)
* Ability to lift 25 lbs
Desired Skills:
* Sample cutting/sectioning using lab saws and fixtures
* Grinding and polishing to achieve required surface finish
* Basic equipment care skills (routine cleaning, consumable changes, escalating equipment issues)
* Documentation skills (recording parameters, results, deviations; clear file naming/archiving)
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