Metallurgical / Mechanical Technician

ARL Laboratory Services Pty Ltd.; Sydney; On-site; AUD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

ARL Laboratory Services Pty Ltd is seeking a skilled Metallurgical / Mechanical Technician to join its Sydney lab. You will prepare metallurgical samples, perform macro- and microstructural examinations, and conduct mechanical tests while supporting investigations and quality control.

We value hands-on laboratory experience, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of metallurgical testing standards and safety procedures.

Qualifications

• A tertiary qualification in Metallurgy, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline is preferred.
• Ideally, a minimum of five years’ experience in a similar metallurgical or mechanical laboratory role.
• Hands-on metallurgical sample preparation and macro/microstructural examination experience.
• Experience with weld macro examination and defect identification.

Responsibilities

• Prepare metallurgical samples for macrostructural and microstructural examination.
• Conduct macro- and microstructural examinations of metallic materials and weld specimens.
• Perform hardness testing, microhardness testing, and other mechanical property evaluations as required.
• Assist with metallurgical failure analysis, defect investigations, and quality control assessments.
• Operate laboratory equipment in accordance with established testing procedures and applicable standards.
• Perform routine maintenance of laboratory equipment and ensure instruments are calibrated and maintained in good working condition.
• Follow laboratory safety procedures when handling chemicals, machinery, equipment, and potentially hazardous materials.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organised laboratory and work environment.
• Collaborate with engineers, laboratory personnel, and other team members to support testing activities and laboratory operations.
• Receive, inspect, organise, and manage client samples submitted for testing.
• Ensure accurate sample identification, labelling, documentation, traceability, and inventory control of laboratory samples and consumables.

Skills

Metallurgical testing procedures

Attention to detail

Lab safety

Reading engineering drawings

Analytical problem-solving

Time management

Team collaboration

Strong observational skills

Independent work

Education

Tertiary qualification in Metallurgy, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering or related

Tools

Optical microscopes

Laboratory equipment

Job description

ARL Laboratory Services Pty Ltd is seeking a skilled and motivated Metallurgical / Mechanical Technician to join its laboratory team based in Sydney, NSW. The successful candidate will be responsible for metallurgical sample preparation, macro- and microstructural examination, mechanical testing, and supporting laboratory investigations and quality control activities.

This role is suited to a technically proficient individual with hands-on laboratory experience, strong attention to detail, and a sound understanding of metallurgical testing procedures, industry standards, and laboratory safety requirements.

Location: Sydney, NSW, Australia
Reporting to: Manager – Mechanical / Metallurgical Laboratory

About the Role

ARL Laboratory Services Pty Ltd is seeking a skilled and motivated Metallurgical / Mechanical Technician to join its laboratory team based in Sydney, NSW. The successful candidate will be responsible for metallurgical sample preparation, macro- and microstructural examination, mechanical testing, and supporting laboratory investigations and quality control activities.

This role is suited to a technically proficient individual with hands-on laboratory experience, strong attention to detail, and a sound understanding of metallurgical testing procedures, industry standards, and laboratory safety requirements.

Location: Sydney, NSW, Australia
Reporting to: Manager – Mechanical / Metallurgical Laboratory

Qualifications and Experience

• A tertiary qualification in Metallurgy, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline is preferred, or equivalent relevant experience.
• Ideally, a minimum of five years’ experience in a similar metallurgical or mechanical laboratory role.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience in metallographic sample preparation, including cutting, mounting, grinding, polishing, and etching of metal specimens for macro- and microscopic examination.
• Practical experience in weld macro examination and identifying defects such as cracks, inclusions, porosity, and other weld discontinuities.
• Proficiency in using optical microscopes at various magnifications, including 10×, 100×, and 1000×, to examine and assess metal microstructures.
• Experience in mechanical testing, including tensile, impact, and hardness testing, is highly desirable.
• Machining skills and experience with relevant workshop equipment are advantageous.
• Sound knowledge of applicable Australian and international standards, testing procedures, and industry regulations.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Prepare metallurgical samples for macrostructural and microstructural examination.
• Conduct macro- and microstructural examinations of metallic materials and weld specimens.
• Perform hardness testing, microhardness testing, and other mechanical property evaluations as required.
• Assist with metallurgical failure analysis, defect investigations, and quality control assessments.
• Operate laboratory equipment in accordance with established testing procedures and applicable standards.
• Perform routine maintenance of laboratory equipment and ensure instruments are calibrated and maintained in good working condition.
• Follow laboratory safety procedures when handling chemicals, machinery, equipment, and potentially hazardous materials.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organised laboratory and work environment.
• Collaborate with engineers, laboratory personnel, and other team members to support testing activities and laboratory operations.
• Receive, inspect, organise, and manage client samples submitted for testing.
• Ensure accurate sample identification, labelling, documentation, traceability, and inventory control of laboratory samples and consumables.

Required Skills and Competencies

• Practical experience in laboratory equipment operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
• Ability to read, interpret, and work with engineering and technical drawings.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and observational skills.
• High attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy and quality.
• Good organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Strong commitment to workplace health and safety and compliance with laboratory procedures.

Candidate Preference

Preference will be given to onshore candidates currently residing in Australia, with relevant experience and the ability to work in Sydney, NSW.

Candidates with practical metallurgical laboratory experience, a strong understanding of testing standards, and a commitment to delivering accurate and reliable results are encouraged to apply.