Materials Technician
What is the work like?
Materials technicians test the behaviour of materials under different conditions, in a range of industries. Companies use the results of these tests to improve the performance of existing products, to eliminate faults with materials already in use, and to help with the development of new technologies.
You would use various methods to examine materials, including non-destructive testing (NDT). Your duties would include:
- testing a material's strength and flexibility under stress
- testing materials' characteristics like chemical composition or electromagnetic properties
- assessing the cost, reliability, safety and environmental impact of materials
- researching new ways to use materials for the development of products
- analysing test results and writing reports for project engineers and managers.
You would work closely with engineers and scientists from other fields, such as mechanical, electronic or aeronautical engineering.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
You may be able to start with a company as a trainee technician, if you have four or five GCSEs (A-C), including maths, English and a science subject. Some employers may ask for one or two A levels or equivalent qualifications, like the BTEC National Certificate and Diploma in Applied Science.
Another option might be to join an Apprenticeship scheme. The range of Apprenticeships available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and the types of skills employers need from their workers. For more information on Apprenticeships, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk.
You could also take a higher-level qualification, such as a foundation degree, BTEC HND or degree in materials science and engineering, as a way into this career. To search for colleges and universities offering foundation degrees, HNDs and degrees see the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service.
The Institute of Materials, Minerals and Mining (IOM 3) website has careers information, as well as a list of colleges around the country offering relevant training for this job.
For general information about engineering as a career, see SEMTA and Women into Science, Engineering and Construction websites.
The Engineering Training Council (Northern Ireland) also has careers information and a course database for colleges in that area.
What further training and development can I do?
Once you start working, you could take various on-the-job qualifications, covering the engineering, science and manufacturing fields. Your employer would decide which one is the most suitable to your job role. Qualifications include:
- BTEC National Certificate and Diploma in Manufacturing Engineering
- NVQ Performing Engineering Operations levels 1 and 2
- NVQ Engineering Technical Support Level 3
- NVQ Non Destructive Testing Level 3.
You could also take courses run by the IOM 3 Training Academy. These cover various areas of materials science, such as processing metals in manufacturing, materials selection, testing, quality and materials performance. Many of these are available by distance learning. Contact the IOM 3 for more details.
As an experienced technician, you may improve your career prospects by registering with the Engineering Council to gain EngTech status.
Where can I go for more information?
Interpoint20-24 York Street
Belfast
BT15 1AQ
Tel: 028 9032 9878
London
SW1Y 5DB
Tel: 020 7451 7300
Weston House
246 High Holborn
London
WC1B 7EX
Tel: 020 3206 0408
Watford
Hertfordshire
WD18 0JT
Tel: 0800 282167
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
Related profiles...
Chemical Engineering Technician
Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Technician
Mechanical Engineering Technician
What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Starting salaries are between £14,000 and £17,000 a year.
- Experienced technicians earn between £18,000 and £25,000 a year.
- Specialist technicians can earn more than £30,000 a year.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You would normally work 37 to 40 hours a week, with the possibility of overtime.
Depending on your job, you may be based in an office, laboratory or manufacturing plant. You may have to travel occasionally between sites and to meet clients.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- an interest in science
- good problem-solving skills and the ability to find creative solutions
- good maths and IT skills
- an understanding of engineering drawings and principles
- a knowledge of the qualities of materials under different conditions
- an understanding of manufacturing processes and construction methods
- good teamworking skills
- the ability to use your initiative
What opportunities are there?
You would find opportunities in construction, engineering, aerospace, manufacturing and medical instruments.
With experience, you could become a senior technician or move into purchasing, sales and management. You could find work with engineering consultancies, providing testing services for clients. With further training, you could qualify as an engineer.
You may find the following useful for job vacancies and general reading: (links open in new window)
The Engineer Online
Engineering Jobs Network
IOM3
We do not accept responsibility for the content of external sites.
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