Materials Test Operator - Second Shift

The Materials Department at CFS is looking for a materials test operator to support the materials testing and characterization laboratory. Materials at CFS supports the design and engineering of all components needed for fusion systems and high temperature superconducting magnets. Working closely with the team lead for materials testing and characterization, the team of materials test operators provides continuous support for both industry standard and customized material and component testing. This includes communication between multiple internal stakeholders, detailed data reporting, equipment maintenance and upkeep, production line support, and continuous improvement. Current and future laboratory equipment includes but is not limited to: mechanical and electrochemical, metallographic specimen polishing and preparation, visible light and electron microscopy, high temperature heat treatments, static and dynamic mechanical testing in a wide range of environments (including cryogenic and high temperature), magnetic property evaluation, and other thermophysical tests. The materials test operators will be responsible for conducting these tasks. 

• Hours: 2:00 - 11:00 pm
• 10% differential added to the pay rate for second shift

Prepare test specimens and performs laboratory experiments

Conduct continuous improvement in the materials test and characterization laboratory

Support inventory management on consumable/spare parts and report up for purchasing

Execute materials tech tickets in accordance with the standard operating procedures and job hazard analyses

Operate industry standard and customized materials testing and characterization equipment, processes, and test methods

Conduct materials testing independently under the input from a materials test engineer including data management and reporting

Complete mechanical testing including tensile testing, shear testing, fatigue testing, fracture toughness testing and other custom testing in extreme environments of cryogenic temperatures and high temperatures

Complete materials characterization including metallographic sample preparation (cutting, grinding, polishing), microscopy and imaging, hardness testing, magnetic and electrical testing.

Support installing, maintaining and troubleshooting laboratory equipment for effective usage as needed

Have the ability and desire to work on multiple, different assignments

Have the flexibility to adapt to changes in lab operations, priorities, and schedules

Maintain proper documentation with attention to detail

Be comfortable with performing repeated tests while still maintaining test quality

Perform other related job duties as assigned by management

High school diploma/equivalency certificate or higher

Minimum 2 years experience with with basic materials prep and testing tools

Minimum 2 years experience with a variety of technical support skills including but not limited to mechanical and electrical assembly, vacuum systems, cryogenic systems, soldering, and wiring

Participate in and promote CFS’ safety procedures and policies

Desire to work in a fast-paced R&D environment with daily changes

Meticulous attention to detail

Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team of engineers, scientists, technical staff and others

Ability to rapidly execute short turnaround materials testing tasks

Strong problem solving skills, ability to approach new problems with creativity

Strong written and oral communications skills & techniques.

Effective root cause analysis and problem-solving skills

Proficient PC skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint

Ability to work independently and in a team environment

Ability to comply, interpret and support procedures, work rules, and protocols

Experience with Instron-based mechanical test systems, Bluehill and Wavematrix software is a plus

Testing to industry or international standards

Experience operating tensile load frames, strain gauges

Experience as a microscopist (optical or electron)

Experience using electrical test devices

Experience with metallographic sample preparation and analysis

Experience with hazardous chemical use and management

Experience with vacuum systems

Experience operating shop equipment including horizontal band saws, drill presses, grinders/sanders, etc

Ability to follow engineering procedures and instructions

Understands materials testing and characterization equipment operations and processes.

Experience working with cryogens such as Liquid Nitrogen and Liquid Helium

• Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 lbs
• Perform activities such as typing, standing, or sitting for extended periods of time
• Dedication to safety to mitigate industrial hazards that may include heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, lead (Pb), high voltage, metallographic Etchants and cryogenics
• Willingness to travel or work required nights/weekends/on-call occasionally