Metallurgist Technician

Impact: Indirect

Assists metallurgists and materials scientists in testing and analyzing metals, alloys, and other materials. Conducts experiments, prepares samples, operates laboratory equipment, and records data to determine material properties and performance.

What the day looks like

People interaction
Moderate
Team vs solo
Team-oriented
Client facing
Rarely
Impact visibility
Moderate
Travel
Low
Schedule flexibility
Rigid
Remote work
On-site Only
Typical work hours
40
Stress level
Moderate

At a glance

Median salary
$60,000
Entry-level
$45,000
Senior
$80,000
Growth by 2033
5%
Demand
Stable
Freelance potential
Low
Salary growth potential
Good
Typical student debt
$20,000 - $40,000

Skills you'll use

Hard skills

  • Material Testing
  • Microscopy
  • Data Analysis
  • Lab Equipment Operation

Soft skills

  • Attention to Detail
  • Problem-Solving
  • Communication

Technical complexity: High

How to get there

Minimum education
Associate's Degree
Licensing
No
Years to mid-career
5
Years to senior
10
Career switching
Moderate

Where this career leads

How people arrive here

    Where you can go from here

      Typical progression

      1. Can advance to Metallurgist or Quality Control Specialist with further education or experience.

      Future outlook

      Automation probability
      Medium
      AI disruption risk
      Low
      Demand trend
      Stable

      How people feel about it

      Overall satisfaction
      4/10
      Meaning
      4/10
      Work-life balance
      3.5/10
      Prestige
      5.5/10
      Social perception
      Moderate

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