Materials Engineers

Materials Engineers typically perform the following tasks: • Analyze product failure data and laboratory test results to determine causes of problems and develop solutions. • Design and direct the testing or control of processing procedures. • Monitor material performance, and evaluate its deterioration. • Conduct or supervise tests on raw materials or finished products to ensure their quality. • Evaluate technical specifications and economic factors relating to process or product design objectives. • Modify properties of metal alloys, using thermal and mechanical treatments. • Determine appropriate methods for fabricating and joining materials. • Guide technical staff in developing materials for specific uses in projected products or devices. • Review new product plans, and make recommendations for material selection, based on design objectives such as strength, weight, heat resistance, electrical conductivity, and cost. • Supervise the work of technologists, technicians, and other engineers and scientists. • Plan and implement laboratory operations to develop material and fabrication procedures that meet cost, product specification, and performance standards. • Plan and evaluate new projects, consulting with other engineers and corporate executives, as necessary. • Supervise production and testing processes in industrial settings, such as metal refining facilities, smelting or foundry operations, or nonmetallic materials production operations. • Solve problems in a number of engineering fields, such as mechanical, chemical, electrical, civil, nuclear, and aerospace. • Conduct training sessions on new material products, applications, or manufacturing methods for customers and their employees. • Perform managerial functions, such as preparing proposals and budgets, analyzing labor costs, and writing reports. • Present technical information at conferences. • Replicate the characteristics of materials and their components, using computers. • Design processing plants and equipment. • Write for technical magazines, journals, and trade association publications.