Metallurgist Jobs

Experts in the science and engineering of metals. Metallurgists work on everything from alloy development to corrosion resistance, ensuring materials meet the demands of modern industry.

Open roles
7
Salary range
£34k – £55k
Hiring companies
6

Metallurgists are at the forefront of materials science, focusing on the properties, behaviour, and applications of metals. They work in a variety of sectors, including aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, and research. Their role is crucial in developing new alloys, improving existing materials, and ensuring the durability and performance of metal components. Whether in a lab or on a production floor, metallurgists play a vital role in advancing technology and solving complex engineering challenges.

What the role does

Inside the role of a Metallurgist

A typical week for a metallurgist is a mix of laboratory work, data analysis, and collaboration with cross-functional teams.

  1. 01
    Conduct experiments to test metal properties
  2. 02
    Analyse data and prepare reports
  3. 03
    Collaborate with engineers and scientists
  4. 04
    Develop and optimise new alloys
  5. 05
    Review and update safety protocols
  6. 06
    Attend project meetings and provide updates
Salary on the board

£34k – £55k

Based on advertised midpoints across the 8 priced listings posted in the last 12 months. Base salary only.

By seniority
£k base
Mid
34
55
6 jobs
Skills & tools

What hiring managers ask for

% of 6 listings posted in the last 12 months that mention each skill, extracted from job descriptions.

Metallurgy
83%
Process Control
50%
Aerospace-Grade Metals
33%
Titanium
33%
Aluminium
33%
High-Strength Steel
33%
ASTM
33%
NADCAP
33%
AS9100
33%
Data Analysis
33%
Applied Statistics
33%
Materials Science
33%
Career ladder

From Junior to Principal

A typical UK progression for metallurgists. Years are guidance — strong people move faster, and many senior folks sidestep into research, product or management.

  1. Level 1

    Junior Metallurgist

    0–2 yrs

    Assist in laboratory experiments and data collection, working under the guidance of senior metallurgists.

  2. Level 2

    Metallurgist

    2–5 yrs

    Take ownership of specific projects, conduct independent research, and contribute to the development of new materials.

  3. Level 3

    Senior Metallurgist

    5–10 yrs

    Lead projects, mentor junior team members, and provide expert advice on material selection and application.

  4. Level 4

    Principal Metallurgist

    10+ yrs

    Oversee multiple projects, drive innovation, and influence company strategy in materials science and engineering.

Pathway

How to become a Metallurgist

There's no single route, but most people follow some version of these steps.

  1. 1

    Academic Foundation

    Complete a degree in materials science, metallurgy, or a related field. Gain a strong understanding of metal properties and processes.

  2. 2

    Entry-Level Experience

    Start as a junior metallurgist, assisting in laboratory experiments and data collection. Build practical skills and knowledge.

  3. 3

    Specialisation

    Focus on a specific area of metallurgy, such as alloy development, corrosion resistance, or materials characterisation. Gain expertise through hands-on experience.

  4. 4

    Project Leadership

    Take on leadership roles in metallurgical projects, managing teams and driving innovation. Develop strong project management and communication skills.

  5. 5

    Advanced Research

    Pursue advanced research or a higher degree, contributing to the field through publications and industry collaborations.

  6. 6

    Strategic Influence

    Influence company strategy and industry standards in materials science. Serve as a thought leader and mentor to the next generation of metallurgists.

Live jobs

7 live roles

Metallurgist

This role involves leading quality improvement projects, resolving complex technical issues with customers, and supporting new product development in a high-performance engineering environment. The metallurgist will work closely with operations teams to troubleshoot manufacturing challenges, maintain technical documentation, and drive continuous improvement in quality and safety. They will also mentor junior engineers and support customer and subcontractor activities through occasional travel.

Reed S47Ur, S4 7UR, United Kingdom £45,000 – £55,000 pa
Hybrid Permanent

Metallurgist

The Metallurgist role involves leading projects to enhance product quality and reduce costs, working with customers to define technical requirements, and collaborating with operations to resolve technical issues. Responsibilities also include developing new products, mentoring graduates, and traveling to support customers and witness sub-contract activities.

Reed S91Pp, S9 1PP, United Kingdom £45,000 – £55,000 pa
On-site Permanent

Metallurgist

Our client is a respected Sheffield-based manufacturer operating within a specialist, high-integrity sector. The business is known for its technical capability, consistent quality standards, and customer-focused approach, supplying products that are critical to demanding applications. With a culture built around...

Shillito Group Sheffield, United Kingdom

Metallurgist - Speciality Alloys

This role involves leading metallurgical innovations, providing technical support, and developing next-generation aerospace-grade metals. You will collaborate with operations to maintain quality standards and solve complex material issues.

Randstad Engineering Whiteley, Hampshire, PO15 7LW, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent

Senior Metallurgist - Materials Scientist (CCGT)

About UsRisktec Solutions is an established, independent and specialist risk management consulting and training company, and is part of the TÜV Rheinland Group. We assist clients in major hazard industries including oil and gas, clean energy, nuclear and transportation, as...

Risktec Derby, Derbyshire, DE1 3AE, United Kingdom
On-site Permanent

Senior Metallurgist

This role involves leading metallurgical operations in an iron and steel manufacturing environment, with responsibility for melting processes, quality control, laboratory performance, and continuous improvement. The Senior Metallurgist will conduct technical investigations, mentor teams, and ensure compliance with quality standards while balancing office-based analysis with shopfloor presence. It offers technical ownership and leadership impact in a stable, established manufacturing setting.

Trinity Industrial Dudley, West Midlands (county), United Kingdom
On-site Permanent

Chemical/Metallurgical Analyst (metals)

This role involves preparing and analyzing samples of superalloys using various analytical techniques and equipment. The analyst will ensure compliance with quality standards, maintain equipment, and support production and quality assurance processes.

Reed S47Ur, S4 7UR, United Kingdom £43,780 pa
On-site Permanent Shift-work
Hiring locations

Where this role is hiring

The locations with the most live listings for this role today.

FAQs

Common questions

  • Metallurgists are hired by a range of industries, including aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, and research institutions.

  • Key skills include a strong understanding of materials science, analytical and problem-solving abilities, and proficiency in laboratory techniques and data analysis.

  • Metallurgists often work in laboratory settings, but they may also be involved in fieldwork, production facilities, and office environments.

  • Career progression can lead from junior roles to senior and principal positions, with opportunities to specialise, lead projects, and influence company strategy.

  • Salaries for metallurgists vary based on experience and role. For more detailed salary information, please refer to the salary section on this page.

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