Metallographer / Metallurgical Engineer

Anderson Laboratories, Inc.; Milwaukee (WI); On-site; USD 65,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Anderson Laboratories, Inc. in Milwaukee seeks an experienced Metallographer/Metallurgical Engineer to perform hands-on specimen prep and metallographic evaluation in our Metallography Department.

You will analyze test results, assist with failure analysis, and support customers from quote through final report, leveraging SEM/EDS when available. This role offers a collaborative environment in a family-owned lab focused on quality and precision.

Qualifications

• B.S. in Metallurgical Engineering or Materials Science preferred.
• 2+ years in manufacturing or similar environment with materials exposure.
• Hands-on metallographic prep and hardness testing experience.
• Familiarity with SEM and EDS strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepare metallographic specimens per ASTM E3.
• Perform metallographic evaluations including grain size and microstructure.
• Interpret test results against material requirements.
• Compile procedures and findings into customer reports.
• Provide technical support to customers and sales team.
• Coordinate nondestructive testing as needed.

Skills

Metallography

Hardness testing

Data interpretation

Communication

Education

B.S. in Metallurgical Engineering or Materials Science

Tools

SEM

EDS

Optical microscope

Job description

We have an immediate opening for an experienced Metallographer / Metallurgical Engineer in our Metallography Department. The role combines hands‑on specimen preparation and metallographic evaluation with failure analysis, interpretation of mechanical test results, and technical support for customers from quote through final report. The work covers the chemical, mechanical, and metallurgical properties of a wide variety of metals and offers the opportunity to apply, develop, and challenge technical skills every day.

Responsibilities

• Prepare metallographic specimens in accordance with ASTM E3.
• Perform metallographic evaluations, including grain size determination, heat‑treat evaluation, identification of microstructural constituents and inclusions, coating thickness measurement, case depth determination, and macro- and microhardness testing; experience with image analysis systems is a plus.
• Interpret tensile, impact, and hardness test results against the customer's material requirements or the applicable standard or specification.
• Conduct failure analysis on failed components to verify material, identify the failure mode, and evaluate contributing factors.
• Compile test procedures, data, and findings into clear, well‑organized technical reports for customers.
• Provide technical support to customers and the sales team on material properties and testing, including pre‑sale qualification, quoting, and post‑test follow‑up.
• Coordinate nondestructive testing of customer components as needed.

Qualifications

• B.S. in Metallurgical Engineering or Materials Science and Engineering preferred; degrees in related engineering or science disciplines, combined with materials evaluation experience, will also be considered.
• Two or more years of experience in a manufacturing, fabrication, or similar environment with exposure to material properties or testing; experience with alloys in machining, foundry, or welding applications is desired.
• Hands‑on experience with metallographic preparation (sectioning, mounting, polishing, and etching) and hardness testing, using cutoff saws, mounting presses, polishing equipment, optical microscopes and cameras, hardness testers, and micrometers.
• Experience with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy‑dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) is strongly preferred
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and a collaborative approach, including the ability to explain technical findings clearly to customers and to work effectively with laboratory, engineering, and sales colleagues.
• Detail‑oriented problem solver able to work quickly, accurately, and independently in a fast‑paced commercial laboratory.

About Us

Anderson Laboratories has provided trusted metallurgical testing services since 1939. As a family‑owned lab, we bring objectivity, precision, and genuine partnership to every project — helping manufacturers and engineers solve problems, ensure quality, and move forward with confidence. Join us if you excel in small teams and value real relationships with people who actually care.