Materials Test Operator - Mechanical Testing & Metrology

Commonwealth Fusion Systems; Harvard (MA); On-site; USD 41,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

Commonwealth Fusion Systems is seeking a Materials Test Operator to support our mechanical testing and characterization lab. You will prepare specimens, run tests with Instron machines, perform metallographic prep and microscopy, and report data with precision.

This on-site, full-time role requires attention to detail, teamwork with the materials group, and adherence to safety procedures. Experience with data acquisition and lab maintenance is valued.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; 2+ years in materials prep and testing.
• At least 2 years’ experience with mechanical/electrical assembly and vacuum/cryogenic systems.
• Attention to detail to maintain data quality across repeated tests.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced R&D environment with daily changes.
• Strong problem-solving and written/spoken communication skills.
• Proficient PC skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and reporting.

Responsibilities

• Prepare test specimens and perform laboratory experiments.
• Execute Jira tickets and QBench orders per SOPs.
• Operate standard and customized materials testing equipment and methods.
• Conduct mechanical tests (tensile, compression, fatigue) across temperatures using Instron systems.
• Use load cells, extensometers, gauges to ensure accurate data acquisition.
• Prepare metallographic samples, perform microscopy and hardness tests.
• Assemble custom fixturing and test stands for R&D needs.
• Maintain data integrity and troubleshoot test lifecycles.
• Support equipment installation, calibration, and maintenance.
• Assist with inventory and purchasing needs; contribute to lab improvements.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills

Mechanical testing

Data acquisition

Metallography

Microscopy

Documentation

Problem solving

Communication skills

PC skills

Independent work

Team collaboration

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Instron

Bluehill

Wavematrix

Microscopy equipment

Job description

Commonwealth Fusion Systems is seeking a Materials Test Operator to support our mechanical testing and characterization lab. You will prepare specimens, run tests with Instron machines, perform metallographic prep and microscopy, and report data with precision.

This on-site, full-time role requires attention to detail, teamwork with the materials group, and adherence to safety procedures. Experience with data acquisition and lab maintenance is valued.