Powder Lab Technician

Job Purpose
As a Powder Lab Technician at VulcanForms, you will perform laboratory testing and characterization of metal powders used throughout our additive manufacturing process. This role is responsible for executing routine laboratory analyses, preparing samples, documenting results, maintaining laboratory equipment, and supporting engineers in evaluating powder quality across incoming, production, reused, and recycled materials. The ideal candidate enjoys hands-on laboratory work, follows standardized procedures with precision, and takes pride in generating accurate, traceable data that supports world-class manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform routine powder characterization testing on incoming, in-process, reused, and recycled metal powders following established laboratory procedures.
• Prepare powder samples for testing, including sampling, labeling, handling, and storage while maintaining full material traceability.
• Operate laboratory equipment used for powder characterization, including particle size analyzers, flowability testing equipment, density measurement devices, and other analytical instruments.
• Record, review, and document laboratory results accurately within laboratory databases and quality systems.
• Assist engineers with material investigations, qualification activities, process development, and root cause analyses by preparing samples and executing laboratory testing.
• Maintain laboratory cleanliness, organization, consumables, and equipment to support safe and efficient daily operations.
• Perform routine equipment inspections, preventative maintenance, calibration checks, and report equipment issues when identified.
• Follow established SOPs, work instructions, quality procedures, and laboratory safety requirements for reactive metal powders.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities to improve laboratory efficiency, organization, documentation, and standard work.
• Safely handle reactive metal powders while adhering to all environmental, health, and safety procedures.
• Collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, and Operations teams to support production priorities and laboratory workload.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Engineering Technology, Manufacturing Technology, or related technical field; equivalent laboratory or manufacturing experience will also be considered.
• 2+ years of laboratory, manufacturing, quality, or materials testing experience preferred.
• Experience working with laboratory instruments and following standardized test procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to produce accurate, repeatable work.
• Comfortable working with computers and documenting laboratory results using spreadsheets, databases, or manufacturing software.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a collaborative technical team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Commitment to maintaining a safe laboratory environment.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the workday.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to safely handle laboratory samples, equipment, and reactive metal powders while wearing required PPE.
• Ability to perform repetitive laboratory tasks requiring manual dexterity and attention to detail.
• Ability to work safely in both laboratory and manufacturing environments.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with metal powders, powder metallurgy, additive manufacturing, or advanced manufacturing.
• Familiarity with particle size analysis, Hall flow testing, density measurements, or other powder characterization techniques.
• Experience supporting laboratory quality systems, calibration activities, or ISO-controlled environments.
• Experience working in manufacturing, aerospace, medical device, semiconductor, or regulated industries.
• Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) or manufacturing execution systems (MES).

VulcanForms offers a competitive salary and equity package. Actual compensation is based on factors such as the candidate's skills, qualifications, and experience. In addition, VulcanForms provides comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; generous paid time off; and a 401(k) plan with company match. 

For non-exempt roles with multiple headcount openings, and varying level opportunities (example: Machine Build, Manufacturing Specialists (V1)). 

The hourly pay range for this position varies by level; final level and compensation will be determined based on a candidate's experience.

Level 1: $19.93 – $27.40

Level 2: $19.93 – $33.00

Level 3: $29.42 – $40.45

Level 4: $31.16 - 42.84