As part of a formal apprenticeship or regional training program, the Materials Engineering Technician – Level I supports Materials Engineering Technicians and Engineers by learning and developing core laboratory and testing skills. The role involves operating analytical instruments, preparing and testing material samples, maintaining quality documentation, and supporting laboratory operations. The technician progressively performs work independently after sufficient training and contributes to continuous improvement, safety, and quality compliance within the laboratory environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Learn to operate and support various analytical instruments and laboratory equipment used for mechanical, metallurgical, and physical testing.
- Perform physical and material analysis under approved standard procedures and work instructions.
- Assist with routine calibration, maintenance, troubleshooting, and minor repair of laboratory instruments and equipment.
- Prepare metallurgical and mechanical test samples including cutting, polishing, and sample preparation activities.
- Assist in gathering, interpreting, and documenting test results; support preparation of laboratory reports, technical reports, and methods documentation.
- Maintain laboratory documentation and records in compliance with ISO 9001 and ISO/IEC 17025:2017 requirements.
- Support chemical waste collection, transportation, and documentation in line with safety and environmental guidelines.
- Participate in formal training programs, classes, and apprenticeship requirements to build technical capability and certification readiness.
- Conduct assigned work independently after sufficient training and skill development.
- Collaborate with technicians and engineers to support laboratory and business needs.
- Participate in quality procedures, audits (self and team), corrective actions, and continuous improvement projects.
- Maintain workplace cleanliness, safety, and compliance with Cummins standards.
- Perform other duties as required to support laboratory operations.
Cummins is an equal opportunity employer. Our policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, sex, color, disability, national origin, age, religion, union affiliation, sexual orientation, veteran status, citizenship, gender identity, or other status protected by law.
Responsibilities:
Skills & CompetenciesTechnical Skills
- Ability to operate or learn operation of analytical and testing equipment such as:
- Hardness testing
- Tensile testing
- Optical Emission Spectroscopy (OES)
- Non-Destructive Testing (NDT)
- Metallurgical sample preparation and polishing
- Strong understanding of mechanical and metallurgical testing principles
- Knowledge of laboratory documentation and quality systems (ISO 9001, ISO/IEC 17025:2017 preferred)
- Preference for candidates with exposure to mechanical and metallurgical testing environments
Core Competencies
- Data Acquisition:
Prepares samples, verifies equipment calibration, and performs tests according to approved procedures to ensure accurate, reliable, and traceable data. - Material Characterization:
Interprets mechanical, chemical, microstructural, and physical properties using laboratory equipment to confirm compliance and support engineering analysis. - Collaboration:
Builds effective working relationships and partners with technicians, engineers, and stakeholders to meet shared objectives. - Communication:
Communicates clearly and effectively through written and verbal methods with diverse audiences. - Values Differences:
Recognizes and respects diverse perspectives and cultures, contributing to an inclusive workplace.
Experience
- 2–3 years of relevant laboratory, mechanical, or metallurgical testing experience preferred
- Candidates with minimal or no experience may be considered if enrolled or eligible for a formal apprenticeship or training program
Qualifications:
Qualifications
- Diploma in Mechanical Engineering or Metallurgy
- High school diploma or equivalent secondary education in a STEM field is required
- Must meet minimum educational requirements to begin a formal apprenticeship or training program
- Registration in a regionally certified apprenticeship or learning program is required (where applicable)
