Laboratory Materials Analyst I/X-Ray Diffraction
$73,342–$96,811 year
On-siteGolden, Colorado, United States
Job Summary
Prepare samples and perform routine quantitative and qualitative analysis of ceramic and inorganic materials, with primary emphasis on X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF). Execute established workflows including sample preparation, instrument setup, calibration checks, data collection, and preliminary review for phase identification and elemental analysis. Support additional testing such as fused bead preparation, combustion analysis for oxygen/nitrogen/carbon/sulfur, BET surface area analysis, and uncombined carbon testing. Interpret results at a foundational level, create accurate technical reports for internal stakeholders, and escalate abnormal findings to senior analysts. Work under supervision while maintaining data integrity through strict adherence to standards, specifications, and quality controls.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's Degree in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, Geology, Metallurgy, Ceramic Engineering, or a related technical field
- college-level laboratory coursework
- at least one related internship or equivalent hands-on laboratory experience
- Ability to follow structured analytical procedures with strong attention to detail, documentation, and data quality
- Ability to safely prepare samples using grinding, milling, weighing, fusion, combustion, or other established preparation techniques
- Accurately use laboratory information systems, spreadsheets, instrument software, and department-specific data systems
- Strong technical communication skills, including the ability to summarize results clearly and document observations accurately
- Capability to perform basic statistical analyses and data checks
- Exhibit communication skills necessary to work effectively within a team environment and communicate with internal customers
- Must be organized, detail-oriented, safety-focused, and self-driven
- Required to always wear appropriate PPE in laboratory work areas
- May be required to handle hazardous chemicals, fluxes, powders, combustion reagents, compressed gases, acids, bases, and solvents
- May be required to work with high-temperature equipment, including fusion systems, furnaces, combustion analyzers, or heated sample preparation equipment
- May be required to handle ceramic powders or particulates requiring dust control practices
- May be required to wear a respirator; medical evaluation will be required prior to fitting
- May be required to stand for extended periods and perform hands-on sample preparation, instrument loading, and laboratory housekeeping activities
Desired Qualifications
- Coursework or laboratory experience in materials characterization, analytical chemistry, crystallography, mineralogy, inorganic chemistry, or ceramic materials
- up to 2 years of laboratory experience, either at the undergraduate research, graduate, or industry level
- Experience with XRD, XRF, fused bead sample preparation, combustion analysis, BET surface area, carbon analysis, ceramic materials, minerals, powders, or inorganic materials
- Familiarity with XRD and XRF principles
- Ability to learn and apply basic phase identification, elemental analysis, sample preparation, and method-specific quality control requirements
- Basic understanding of ceramics, inorganic materials, powders, crystalline phases, and compositional analysis
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