Materials Test Operator

Materials Test OperatorThe Materials Department at CFS is looking for a materials test operator to support our mechanical testing and characterization laboratory. Materials at CFS supports the design and engineering of all components needed for fusion systems and high-temperature superconducting (HTS) magnets. Working closely with the team lead, the materials test operator provides continuous support for both industry-standard and customized mechanical testing—including tensile, compression, flexural, shear, and fatigue. This role balances rigorous mechanical data acquisition and equipment operation with essential metallographic specimen preparation and microscopy. The operator is responsible for communication with internal stakeholders, detailed data reporting, equipment maintenance, and production line support. Laboratory capabilities include, but are not limited to: mechanical testing (Universal Testing Machines such as Instron, Load Cells, Extensometers), metallographic specimen polishing and preparation, microscopy, heat treatments, magnetic property evaluation, and other thermophysical tests.What you'll do:Prepare test specimens and performs laboratory experimentsContinuous improvement in the materials test and characterization laboratorySupport inventory management on consumable/spare parts and report up for purchasingExecution of materials test Jira tickets and QBench orders in accordance with the standard operating proceduresOperating industry standard and customized materials testing and characterization equipment, processes, and test methodsConducting materials testing independently under the input from a materials test engineer including data management and reportingMechanical testing includes destructive testing (Tensile, Compression, Flexural, Shear, Peel, and Fatigue) using Instron Universal Testing Machines, and other custom testing in extreme environments over a range of temperaturesUtilizing instrumentation including Load Cells, Torque Wrenches, Extensometers, Strain Gauges, Calipers, and Micrometers to ensure accurate data acquisitionMaterials characterization includes metallographic sample preparation (cutting, grinding, polishing), microscopy, hardness testing, magnetic and electrical testingSupport in installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting laboratory equipment, including equipment calibration and alignment for effective usageAssembling custom fixturing and test stands to meet unique R&D requirements.Ability and desire to work on multiple, different assignmentsFlexibility to adapt to changes in lab operations, priorities, and schedulesMaintain rigorous documentation with attention to detail, ensuring data integrity and effective troubleshooting throughout the test lifecycleComfortable with performing repeated tests while still maintaining test qualityPerform other related job duties as assigned by managementWhat we're looking for:High school diploma/equivalency certificate or higherMinimum 2 years experience with with basic materials prep and testing toolsMinimum 2 years experience with a variety of technical support skills including but not limited to mechanical and electrical assembly, vacuum systems, cryogenic systems, soldering, and wiringParticipate in and promote CFS' safety procedures and policiesDesire to work in a fast-paced R&D environment with daily changesMeticulous attention to detailAbility to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team of engineers, scientists, technical staff and othersAbility to rapidly execute short turnaround materials testing tasksStrong problem solving skills, ability to approach new problems with creativityStrong written and oral communications skills & techniques.Effective root cause analysis and problem-solving skillsProficient PC skills (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPointAbility to work independently and in a team environmentAbility to comply, interpret and support procedures, work rules, and protocolsBonus points for:Experience with Instron-based mechanical test systems, Bluehill and Wavematrix software is a plusTesting to industry or international standards (e.g. ASTM D638, ASTM E8, ISO)Experience working with cryogens such as Liquid Nitrogen and Liquid HeliumExperience with strain-gage applicationExperience using electrical test devicesExperience with metallographic sample preparationand analysisExperience with hazardous chemical use and managementExperience with vacuum systemsExperience operating shop equipment including horizontal band saws, drill presses, grinders/sanders, etcAbility to follow engineering procedures andinstructionsUnderstands materials testing and characterization equipment operations and processes.Must-have requirements:Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 lbsPerform activities such as typing, standing, or sitting for extended periods of timeDedication to safety to mitigate industrial hazards that may include heat, cold, noise, fumes, strong magnets, lead (Pb), high voltage, metallographic Etchants and cryogenicsWillingness to travel or work required nights/weekends/on-call occasionally$30 - $45 an hour Salary range for this full-time position + equity + benefits. The actual salary will depend on level, location, qualifications, and experience. The range displayed on each job posting reflects new hire salaries for the position across all US locations.

Benefits include: • Competitive compensation with equity • 13 Company-wide Holidays • Flexible vacation days • 10 sick days • Generous parental leave policy • Health, dental, and vision insurance • 401(k) with employer matching • Professional growth opportunities • Team-building activitiesAt CFS, we excel in fast-paced environments, driven by our values of integrity, execution, impact, and self-critique. As we grow, we're eager to bring on mission-driven folks who offer diverse perspectives and fresh ways to tackle challenges.We value diversity deeply and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer by choice. We consider all qualified applicants equally, regardless of race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, protected veteran status, religion, physical or mental disability, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, or any other basis protected by law.This role requires compliance with U.S. laws concerning the export of controlled or protected technologies or information (collectively, "Export Control Laws"). Any offer of employment will be contingent on the need for compliance with such Export Control Laws.