PURPOSE:

The Lab Technician supports PCC Carson City’s aerospace manufacturing operations by performing metallurgical testing and analysis to ensure the quality and compliance of metal alloys. Working under general supervision, this role is responsible for preparing samples, conducting tests, and maintaining accurate records in accordance with customer and regulatory requirements. This position offers hands-on laboratory experience in metals testing with opportunities to build technical skills and support critical production processes.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Sample Testing & Analysis

• Collect, prepare, and analyze material samples from melting furnaces, ingot slices, receiving inspection, and special requests.
• Verify sample identity, confirm testing requirements, and track progress to ensure accurate completion of analysis.
• Report metals chemistry data in a timely and accurate manner to support production and customer requirements.

Quality & Compliance

• Identify and report non-conforming materials and assist in determining corrective actions.
• Assist with metals laboratory audits and update Laboratory Quality Control Procedures as required.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records, logs, and documentation to support data integrity and compliance.
• Ensure all testing follows established methods, procedures, and quality standards.

Equipment & Maintenance

• Perform routine maintenance of laboratory equipment and maintain logs of all maintenance and repairs.
• Monitor laboratory tools and systems to ensure reliability and accuracy of results.
• Maintain clean and organized work areas and staging zones.

Team & Customer Support

• Provide assistance to internal customers with analytical requirements.
• Collaborate with engineering, production, and quality teams to meet testing needs and resolve material concerns.
• Participate in lab meetings, audits, and training activities as directed.

General

• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned to support department and company goals.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS:

• This position reports directly to the Quality Manager

PREFERRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma or GED; additional college-level coursework or technical training in chemistry, metallurgy, or materials science preferred.
• Prior experience in an analytical or metallurgical laboratory environment preferred.
• Basic knowledge of chemistry and general knowledge of metal alloy groups.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong problem-solving, analytical, and organizational skills.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Ability to follow detailed instructions, technique cards, and code sheets.
• Strong learning aptitude and willingness to build technical expertise.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Regularly required to stand, walk, push, pull, and bend for extended periods.
• Ability to lift, carry, and move objects up to 35 pounds independently.
• Must be able to work in a manufacturing environment with exposure to heat, dust, noise, and moving equipment.
• Repetitive motion required in material handling and transport tasks.
• Ability to pass visual acuity testing per Quality Department standards.
• Ability to become forklift certified.

BENEFITS:

• Eligible to participate in the Company’s Quarterly Cash Bonus Plan, based on performance.
• 80 hours of paid time off annually, plus 10 paid holidays.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage. Employees (and their families) are eligible to participate.
• Company-paid basic life insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company contribution.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

This position requires use of information or access to production processes subject to national security controls under U.S. export control laws and regulations (including but not limited to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR)). To be qualified to work in this facility, a successful applicant must be a U.S. Person, as defined in those regulations, and able to supply evidence of that qualification prior to starting work or be authorized to receive controlled information under a specific license or permission from the relevant government agency. The U.S. export control regulations define a U.S. person as a U.S. Citizen, U.S. National, U.S. Permanent Resident (i.e. Green Card Holder), and certain categories of Asylees and Refugees.