How to Become a Materials Testing Specialist

Quick Facts

  • Average Salary: $59,000/year
  • Required Education: Associate's degree
  • Required Experience: 2-4 years of experience in materials testing
  • Licensing: Certification may be required in certain states
  • Job Outlook: 4% growth (2020-2030)

What Does a Materials Testing Specialist Do?

A Materials Testing Specialist plays a crucial role in the Quality Control sector of the Manufacturing industry. This position involves testing the quality, durability, and safety of raw materials or finished products. When you're a Materials Testing Specialist, you're like the detective of the manufacturing world!

You'll be working either in a bustling factory with other team members or in a more quiet, typical laboratory setup depending on the nature of the materials you are testing. Safety is a top priority, so you'll always wear protective gear to guard against potential hazards.

As a Materials Testing Specialist, your main responsibilities include conducting physical and chemical tests on materials, reporting your findings, and suggesting improvements. You'll also be working with industry-specific testing equipment and computer programs. If quality and precision excite you, then this role could be your calling. It's an opportunity to actively contribute in producing reliable and robust products for use in various industries.

Skills Required

Technical Skills

  • Materials Identification
  • Non-Destructive Testing Methods
  • Quality Control Analysis
  • Safety Procedures
  • Sample Preparation
  • Chemical Analysis Techniques

Soft Skills

  • Detail Oriented
  • Communication
  • Problem Solving
  • Teamwork

Education and Training Requirements

Required Education

Licensing and Certification

State Requirements

Certification may be required in certain states

Salary and Job Outlook

How to Get Started