Metallurgical Technician

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Work Tasks

METALLURGICAL TECHNICIANS test materials as part of mineral processing and metal refining, or for research purposes, and provide technical support to metallurgical engineers. They assist engineers and scientists in research and development, and in the production, quality control, and experimental study of metals. Metallurgical technicians help engineers in the search for new metals and alloys, and for ways of extracting metals from ores. Metallurgical technicians develop and modify test procedures and equipment, analyze data, and compile charts, graphs, and other data for reports.

Salary, Size & Growth

• $48,500 average per year ($23.25 per hour)
• A medium occupation (66,600 workers in 2010)
• Expected to grow moderately (0.7% per year)

Entry Requirements

Most employers prefer applicants for METALLURGICAL TECHNICIAN jobs who have at least a two-year degree in engineering technology. Training is available at technical institutes, junior and community colleges, extension divisions of colleges and universities, vocational-technical schools, and through some technical training programs in the armed forces. No special licensing or certification is required for metallurgical technicians. However, the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) offers voluntary certification for engineering technicians.