Metallurgical Lab Prep Technician — Hands-On Role

Element Materials Technology; Daleville (IN); On-site; USD 28,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Element is seeking a Metallurgical Sample Prep Technician to join our Daleville, IN laboratory team. This hands-on role focuses on preparing metal samples for testing, operating prep equipment, and ensuring safety in a busy lab environment.

No metallurgy experience is required; we provide training. You’ll handle grinding, polishing, mounting, and processing samples, learn to work with chemicals and fume hoods, and support daily lab operations with accuracy and reliability.

Qualifications

• Reliable attendance and strong work ethic.
• Comfortable with hands-on, physical work.
• Willingness to learn and take direction.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and solve problems.
• Comfortable working around machinery, chemicals, and industrial materials.
• Mechanical aptitude or manufacturing experience is a plus but not required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare material samples for testing and evaluation.
• Operate laboratory preparation equipment.
• Grind, polish, mount, and process metal samples.
• Work with laboratory chemicals, acids, and fume hoods.
• Log and track samples through the testing process.
• Help maintain equipment and support daily lab operations.
• Safely handle materials and components up to 40 lbs.

Skills

Reliable attendance

Hands-on work

Willingness to learn

Prioritize & solve problems

Machinery & chemicals

Mechanical aptitude

Job description

Element is seeking a Metallurgical Sample Prep Technician to join our Daleville, IN laboratory team. This hands-on role focuses on preparing metal samples for testing, operating prep equipment, and ensuring safety in a busy lab environment.

No metallurgy experience is required; we provide training. You’ll handle grinding, polishing, mounting, and processing samples, learn to work with chemicals and fume hoods, and support daily lab operations with accuracy and reliability.