Quality Assurance Technician at Worthington Steel

Worthington Steel is seeking an entry-level Lab Technician to support metallurgical testing on production steel samples. This role involves working in a team environment to prepare samples, operate test equipment, and record results - all while ensuring the lab operates safely and efficiently. Initiative, accuracy and attention to detail are essential.

Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee daily lab workflow to ensure safe and efficient operations
• Receive and inspect incoming steel samples
• Prepare test specimens using industrial equipment such as hydraulic shears, hydraulic presses, CNC milling machines, band saws, and bench grinders
• Conduct metallurgical testing, including:
  • Measuring material thickness and hardness
  • Determining surface roughness
  • Performing tensile tests to evaluate strength and ductility
  • Evaluating and documenting the cleanliness and microstructure of carbon steels using optical and digital microscopy
• Determine testing requirements for production orders and metallurgical projects
• Perform data entry of test results in the production database and certify conforming material for customer release
• Resolve shipment timing or data issues in coordination with inside sales, shipping, and production teams
• Verify calibration of test equipment and take corrective actions when required
• Formulate or update procedures for non-standard or specialized testing as needed
• Recommend changes and improvements to testing procedures and documentation
• Train part-time technicians, management trainees, and other personnel on lab procedures and safety practices
• Release approved material for shipment and determine when non-conforming results require metallurgical review or disposition
• Prioritize workloads and assign tasks within the team to ensure schedule adherence
• Participate in special projects and other duties as assigned

Qualifications

Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent; technical or trade school background preferred
• Mechanical aptitude and comfort working with industrial and laboratory equipment
• Ability to follow detailed written procedures and maintain accurate records
• Basic computer literacy for data entry and report generation
• Strong attention to detail, safety focus, and problem-solving mindset
• Ability to lift 50 lbs. and work safely around machinery and sharp materials

Preferred:

• Prior experience in a metallurgical, mechanical testing, or quality control lab
• Familiarity with tensile, hardness, and metallographic testing
• Experience operating mills, presses, or precision measurement instruments
• Understanding of steel manufacturing processes and material properties
• Demonstrated initiative, reliability, and willingness to take on leadership tasks over time