Metallurgical Laboratory Technician

Job Description

System One is seeking a Metallurgical Laboratory Technician (Contract) to support advanced nuclear materials testing and characterization activities. This role supports a high-performing team of engineers focused on materials and fuels testing, characterization, and supplier qualification for next‑generation materials and components used in sodium‑cooled fast reactor technology.

This position is fully on‑site in Everett, WA and involves hands‑on laboratory and radiological work in a controlled environment.

• Perform hands‑on laboratory‑based materials testing and characterization
• Conduct metallography and characterization for a wide range of metallic and ceramic materials
• Generate reports documenting characterization techniques and resulting data
• Perform radiation work, including work within glove boxes
• Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment including furnaces, polishing equipment, and metallography tools
• Assist with the design, fabrication, and operation of custom laboratory experiments
• Coordinate receipt inspections, material sectioning, and shipment of materials with on‑site and off‑site personnel

• Associate’s, Technology, or Bachelor’s degree, or equivalent experience
• Degree in Materials Science, Materials Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, or related discipline preferred
• Demonstrated hands‑on laboratory experience (required)
• Metallography and sample preparation experience (required)
• Experience with radiation work, including working within glove boxes, is desired
• Experience with SEM-EDS, microscopy, and other characterization techniques preferred
• Experience working to quality standards such as ASME NQA-1, ISO 9001, or similar preferred
• Laboratory management experience (equipment upkeep, lab organization) preferred
• Strong communication skills desired
• High attention to detail and quality control required
• The service provider will possess a high degree of trust and integrity, communicate openly, display respect, and demonstrate a strong desire to foster teamwork

• Sitting and/or standing for extended periods; bending/stooping; grasping/gripping; fine motor control
• Ability to safely lift up to 25 pounds
• Prolonged repetitive work
• Visual and audio‑focused work
• Laboratory work environment; stairs, typing/keyboard use; standing and/or sitting >8 hours/day
• Travel: 0–5%

This position supports work subject to U.S. Government export control regulations. Candidates may be required to identify U.S. citizenship, lawful permanent residency, or protected status to support compliance requirements.