Engineering Technician

Position Overview The HTL Engineering Technician supports research, development, and metallurgical laboratory activities across the Henderson site, primarily in buildings S‑11, K‑53, and K‑55. Primary responsibilities include small‑scale materials processing, metallurgical specimen preparation, materials characterization and testing, equipment and facility support, and accurate technical reporting.

Technicians are expected to follow written instructions, industry specifications, and internal procedures while performing tasks with minimal supervision. Cross‑training across all laboratory and pilot processing functions is required.

Key Responsibilities

• Metallurgical & Materials Processing
• Execute small‑scale material production tasks such as formulation, melting, conversion, and blending.
• Prepare metallographic specimens including cutting, mounting, grinding, polishing, and etching.
• Maintain accurate sample identifiers; document relevant sample details; and store, catalog, and retrieve samples according to laboratory instructions, traceability requirements, and project needs.
• Handle, store, mix, and label chemicals in accordance with PCC/TIMET EHS requirements.
• Perform heat‑treatment processes following applicable metallurgical specifications and work instructions.

Materials Characterization & Mechanical Testing Operate and support a diverse range of testing and characterization equipment, including:

• Optical microscopy systems
• Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and associated detectors/instruments
• Microhardness and nanohardness test systems
• Mechanical testing systems (tensile, bend, compression, etc.)
• Additional R&D‑related instrumentation as needed

Collect, analyze, and document metallurgical and mechanical test data accurately.

Technical Documentation

• Prepare reports, summaries, and data packages using Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams).
• Interpret and apply work instructions, industrial standards, raw material certifications, and heat‑treat/coating specifications.
• Maintain accurate digital and physical documentation consistent with PCC/TIMET quality requirements.

Laboratory Operations & Support

• Maintain clean, organized, and safe laboratory work areas by participating in all 6S initiatives.
• Support troubleshooting equipment and preventive maintenance; interface with contractors and service engineers as needed.
• Participate in process improvements related to laboratory efficiency, safety, and equipment performance.
• Operate forklifts, cranes, and perform material-handling tasks; travel to various buildings and operational areas across the Henderson site as required to support laboratory and pilot-scale activities.

Safety, Compliance & Conduct

• Adhere to all PCC/TIMET EHS policies, quality procedures, and site behavioral expectations.
• Wear appropriate PPE for all laboratory, chemical, mechanical, or high‑temperature work.
• Follow hazard‑control procedures related to chemicals, equipment, hot environments, and moving machinery.

Other Duties

• Perform additional tasks as assigned to support laboratory, pilot‑scale, or engineering functions.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Ability to read and interpret technical documents, specifications, and engineering instructions.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and hands‑on experience with tools, laboratory equipment, or related processes.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams).
• Strong organizational and time‑management skills; ability to prioritize multiple projects.
• Ability to work in hot environments and non‑air‑conditioned buildings as required.
• Ability to lift up to 35 lb.
• Ability to operate forklifts and cranes (training provided if needed).

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree, preferably in Mechanical Engineering or Materials Science/Engineering.
• Experience with metallurgical laboratory work, mechanical testing, or materials processing.
• Familiarity with material characterization standards such as ASTM E112 grain size measurement and similar test methods.
• Experience with SEM, microhardness/nanohardness testing, or mechanical test system operation.
• Knowledge of quality systems (ISO, AS9100, or equivalent).

Work Environment

• Primary office in Building S‑11 with regular work conducted in S‑11, K‑53, and K‑55 laboratories and pilot areas.
• Occasional work in plant areas such as shipping/receiving, storage, or outdoor spaces.
• Exposure to chemicals, machinery, noise, dust, hot surfaces, and non‑climate‑controlled areas; proper PPE and training provided.