Metallurgical Laboratory Technician

Job Description
Worthington Steel is seeking a Lab Technician to perform metallurgical testing on production steel sample. This role involves working in a team environment to prepare samples, operate test equipment, and record results – all while ensuring the lab operates safely and efficiently. Initiative, accuracy and attention to detail are essential.

Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee daily lab workflow to ensure safe and efficient operations
• Receive and inspect incoming steel samples
• Prepare test specimens using industrial equipment such as hydraulic shears, hydraulic presses, CNC milling machines, band saws, and bench grinders

• Conduct metallurgical testing, including

• Measuring material thickness and hardness

• Determining surface roughness
• Performing tensile tests to evaluate strength and ductility

• Evaluating and documenting the cleanliness and microstructure of carbon steels using optical and digital microscopy

• Determine testing requirements for production orders and metallurgical projects

• Perform data entry of test results in the production database and certify conforming material for customer release
• Resolve shipment timing or data issues in coordination with inside sales, shipping, and production teams
• Verify calibration of test equipment and take corrective actions when required
• Formulate or update procedures for non-standard or specialized testing as needed
• Recommend changes and improvements to testing procedures and documentation
• Train part-time technicians, management trainees, and other personnel on lab procedures and safety practices
• Release approved material for shipment and determine when non-conforming results require metallurgical review or disposition
• Prioritize workloads and assign tasks within the team to ensure schedule adherence
• Participate in special projects and other duties as assigned

Qualifications
Required

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical or trade school background preferred
• Mechanical aptitude and comfort working with industrial and laboratory equipment
• Ability to follow detailed written procedures and maintain accurate records
• Basic computer literacy for data entry and report generation
• Strong attention to detail, safety focus, and problem-solving mindset
• Ability to lift 50 lbs. and work safely around machinery and sharp materials

Preferred

• Prior experience in a metallurgical, mechanical testing, or quality control lab
• Familiarity with tensile, hardness, and metallographic testing
• Experience operating mills, presses, or precision measurement instruments
• Understanding of steel manufacturing processes and material properties
• Demonstrated initiative, reliability, and willingness to take on leadership tasks over time

About Us
Hesitant to apply because you may not meet every specific requirement? If this role is something you are interested in, but your previous experience doesn't exactly align, we encourage you to apply At Worthington Steel we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We recognize that individuals with diverse experiences and backgrounds are essential to our success. You may be the perfect candidate for this role or others within our organization.
Worthington Steel (NYSEWS) is a metals processor that partners with customers to deliver highly technical and customized solutions. Worthington Steel's expertise in carbon flat-roll steel processing, electrical steel laminations and tailor welded solutions are driving steel toward a more sustainable future.
As one of the most trusted metals processors in North America, Worthington Steel and its 4,600 employees harness the power of steel to advance our customers' visions through value-added processing capabilities including galvanizing, pickling, configured blanking, specialty cold reduction, lightweighting and electrical lamination. Headquartered in Columbus, Ohio, Worthington operates 32 facilities in seven states and six countries. Following a people-first Philosophy, commitment to sustainability and proven business system, Worthington Steel's purpose is to generate positive returns by providing trusted and innovative solutions for customers, creating opportunities for employees, and strengthening its communities.
Worthington Steel Inc., and its subsidiaries, is an equal employment opportunity employer. Qualified applicants are considered regardless of race, color, religion, age, national origin, sex, disability or veteran's status.