Metallurgy Engineer

Altentechnologyusa; Hagerstown (MD); On-site; USD 75,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

ALTEN Technology USA, located in Hagerstown, MD, is seeking a skilled Metallurgy Engineer focused on failure analysis to join their team. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in materials science, particularly in analyzing metal component failures and implementing actionable solutions to enhance product reliability.

This role offers a unique opportunity to tackle complex engineering challenges while benefiting from mentorship and professional growth. The position includes a competitive salary range of $75,000 - $80,000 based on qualifications and experience.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience investigating metal component failures.
• Strong background in materials science and metallurgical principles.
• Ability to communicate complex data and findings clearly.

Responsibilities

• Conduct root cause analysis on failed components.
• Utilize advanced analytical tools to identify failure mechanisms.
• Design and perform destructive testing methods.
• Develop technical reports summarizing findings and recommendations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement corrective actions.

Skills

Metallurgical principles

Analytical tools (SEM, EDS)

Problem-solving skills

Technical writing

Education

Master's in Metallurgy or Materials Science

Tools

Scanning electron microscopy

Energy-dispersive spectroscopy

Optical microscopy

Tensile testing

Job description

We’re ALTEN Technology USA, an engineering company helping clients bring groundbreaking ideas to life—from advancing space exploration and life‑saving medical devices to building autonomous electric vehicles. With 3,000+ experts across North America, we partner with leading companies in aerospace, medical devices, robotics, automotive, commercial vehicles, EVs, rail, and more.

As part of the global ALTEN Group—57,000+ engineers in 30 countries—we deliver across the entire product development cycle, from consulting to full project outsourcing.

When you join ALTEN Technology USA, you’ll collaborate on some of the world’s toughest engineering challenges, supported by mentorship, career growth opportunities, and comprehensive benefits. We take pride in fostering a culture where employees feel valued, supported, and inspired to grow.

We are seeking a highly skilled Metallurgy Engineer specializing in failure analysis to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in materials science and metallurgical principles, with hands‑on experience investigating metal component failures. This individual will be adept at identifying root causes using advanced analytical techniques and translating findings into actionable solutions that improve product reliability and performance. Strong analytical thinking, technical expertise, and clear communication skills are essential for success in this role.

Responsibilities

• Conduct root cause analysis on failed components, including fracture surfaces, corrosion damage, and microstructures to determine failure mechanisms such as fatigue, creep, or stress corrosion cracking
• Utilize advanced analytical tools including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy‑dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), hardness testing, and optical microscopy
• Design and perform destructive testing (e.g., tensile, hardness) and non‑destructive testing (NDT) methods to replicate failures and validate material performance
• Analyze and interpret test data, fractography, and microstructural images to understand material behavior and failure modes
• Develop detailed technical reports summarizing findings, conclusions, and recommendations
• Present results and insights to engineering, quality, and leadership teams in a clear and actionable manner
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with design, manufacturing, and quality teams to implement corrective actions and prevent recurrence of failures
• Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance product durability and reliability

Qualifications

• Master’s in Metallurgy, Materials Science, or a related discipline, or equivalent practical experience
• Deep understanding of metallurgical principles including phase transformations, alloy behavior, fracture mechanics, corrosion, and high‑temperature performance
• Hands‑on experience with analytical tools such as SEM, EDS, optical microscopy, and tensile testing
• Strong problem‑solving skills with a high level of attention to detail and analytical rigor
• Demonstrated ability to investigate complex material issues and determine root causes effectively
• Excellent technical writing and documentation skills, with the ability to clearly communicate complex data and findings

Salary Range: $75,000 - $80,000

The actual salary offered is dependent on various factors including, but not limited to, location, the candidate’s combination of job‑related knowledge, qualifications, skills, education, training, and experience.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, genetic information, or pregnancy.

Please beware of job seeker scams and see this important notice on our careers page for more information about our recruiting process.

Compliance Notice

Alten USA is a federal contractor subject to the requirements of the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) and Executive Order 11246. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Drug Screening Requirement

As a federal contractor, Alten USA maintains a drug‑free workplace. All candidates selected for employment will be required to successfully complete a pre‑employment drug screening as a condition of hire.