Lab Tech I

Basic Job Functions:

The Mechanical Tester is responsible for preparing specimens and performing mechanical testing on steel products to support product qualification, process control, certification, and customer requirements. This position supports the Main Laboratory and works closely with Metallurgists, Quality, and Production teammates to ensure timely and accurate test results.

Safety is the most important part of all jobs within Nucor; therefore, candidates must be able to demonstrate the ability to initiate, lead, and uphold safety policies, practices, procedures, and housekeeping standards at all times.

Job Description

Sample Preparation

• Retrieve samples from the Hot Mill and Pickle Line and cut tests at the mill shear.
• Receive, identify, track, and process samples from various mill operations, including the Hot Mill, Pickle Line, Cold Sheet, and Galvanizing Mills. 
• Utilize cutting, grinding, and machining equipment as needed to produce test specimens, including surface grinders, saws, and CNCs. 
• Verify specimen dimensions, orientation, surface condition, and identification prior to testing. 
• Maintain sample traceability throughout the preparation, testing, and reporting process.

Mechanical Testing

• Perform mechanical testing in accordance with established laboratory procedures and applicable ASTM standards, customer specifications, and product requirements.
• Operate laboratory equipment used for Tensile Testing, Charpy Impact Testing, Rockwell Hardness Testing, Bend Testing, and dimensional measurements, such as micrometers.
• Conduct daily equipment verifications and routine maintenance activities to ensure reliable equipment operation.
• Evaluate test results for completeness and compliance with applicable specifications and testing requirements.
• Support investigations, retests, and additional testing activities as required.

Documentation and Data Management

• Accurately review, record, and enter test results into laboratory and production data systems.
• Maintain complete and accurate laboratory records, test reports, and supporting documentation.
• Ensure the accuracy, traceability, and integrity of laboratory data and test results.
• Recognize the impact of laboratory data on product certification, customer requirements, specification compliance, and production decision-making.
• Support quality management system requirements through proper documentation and record retention.
• Supports timely material release and shipment by ensuring testing activities are completed accurately and efficiently.

Sample Preparation

• Retrieve samples from the Hot Mill and Pickle Line and cut tests at the mill shear.
• Receive, identify, track, and process samples from various mill operations, including the Hot Mill, Pickle Line, Cold Sheet, and Galvanizing Mills. 
• Utilize cutting, grinding, and machining equipment as needed to produce test specimens, including surface grinders, saws, and CNCs. 
• Verify specimen dimensions, orientation, surface condition, and identification prior to testing. 
• Maintain sample traceability throughout the preparation, testing, and reporting process.

Mechanical Testing

• Perform mechanical testing in accordance with established laboratory procedures and applicable ASTM standards, customer specifications, and product requirements.
• Operate laboratory equipment used for Tensile Testing, Charpy Impact Testing, Rockwell Hardness Testing, Bend Testing, and dimensional measurements, such as micrometers.
• Conduct daily equipment verifications and routine maintenance activities to ensure reliable equipment operation.
• Evaluate test results for completeness and compliance with applicable specifications and testing requirements.
• Support investigations, retests, and additional testing activities as required.

Documentation and Data Management

• Accurately review, record, and enter test results into laboratory and production data systems.
• Maintain complete and accurate laboratory records, test reports, and supporting documentation.
• Ensure the accuracy, traceability, and integrity of laboratory data and test results.
• Recognize the impact of laboratory data on product certification, customer requirements, specification compliance, and production decision-making.
• Support quality management system requirements through proper documentation and record retention.
• Supports timely material release and shipment by ensuring testing activities are completed accurately and efficiently.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High School Diploma or GED.
• Experience working in a manufacturing, industrial, laboratory, machine shop, or other technical environment.
• Basic computer proficiency and data entry skills.
• Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations.
• Ability to lift, move, push, or pull materials weighing up to 50 pounds.

Ability to work safely in an industrial laboratory environment and wear required PPE

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate degree or technical degree.
• Experience performing mechanical testing of metallic materials.
• Experience operating ensile testers, Charpy impact testers, hardness testers, or similar laboratory equipment.
• Experience operating CNC mills, saws, surface grinders, or other machine shop equipment.
• Experience preparing technical records, work instructions, or procedures using Microsoft Word.

• Knowledge of steel manufacturing, fabrication, or metallurgical testing processes.