Location: West Des Moines, IA

Job Description 

At RTX, the world's largest aerospace and defense company, 185,000 great minds are united by purpose and inspired to make a difference solving the world’s most complex problems. With our three market leading businesses, world-class operations and investments in research and development, we offer capabilities and opportunity no one else can. Together, we push the boundaries of known science and find new ways to connect and protect our world.

Collins Aerospace is a leader in technologically advanced, intelligent solutions that help redefine the aerospace and defense industry. With a comprehensive portfolio and deep technical expertise, we help customers meet the demands of the global market. Join us and help shape the future of aerospace and defense.

Collins Aerospace is seeking a Metallography Lab Technician to support critical materials evaluation for our engine nozzle components. In this role, you’ll partner closely with engineering teams to prepare and analyze, and metallurgical samples that help validate materials, processes, and overall product quality. From sectioning and mounting samples to performing microscopic analysis and producing clear, data-driven reports, you’ll play an essential part in ensuring our components meet the highest standards.

This is an onsite role in West Des Moines, IA.

What You Will Do

• Support engineers by evaluating, characterizing, and documenting materials, microstructures, and conditions resulting from a broad range of processes, particularly welding, brazing, and EDM.

• Have or develop a proficiency in the use of sample preparation equipment such as sectioning saws, wire EDM machines, metallographic mounting presses, and grinding & polishing units.

• Prepare and handle chemical reagents required to prepare metallurgical samples for microstructural analysis.

• Have or develop a proficiency in the use of microscopes, metallographs, hardness testers, and imagine analysis (Pax-it and Keyence control) software.

• Prepare samples and perform microstructural analysis. Capture, analyze, and organize data into tables and figures. Document experimental findings in material & process control laboratory (MPCL) reports.

• Assist engineers in specimen preparation and testing, as appropriate (e.g. process development, failure analysis, material defects investigation, etc.). Coordinate test sample/part logistics.

• Develop preparation techniques needed to evaluate new materials and processes.

• Provide metallographic consultation and interpretation for internal and external customers.

• Ensure all testing is performed in accordance with specifications, laboratory procedures, and work instructions.

• Troubleshooting laboratory equipment as needed.

Qualifications You Must Have

• Typically requires HS Diploma or AA/AS degree (or other 2-year post high school training) with a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience

Qualifications We Prefer

• Experience performing or inspecting welding or brazing and an understanding of metallographic properties.

• Materials Analysis experience, preferably in a manufacturing environment

• Experience with microscopes, metallographs, hardness testers, and/or imagine analysis (Pax-it and Keyence control) software.

• Associate's Degree or certificate in welding or similar technical field