Metallurgist

Metallurgists study the properties and performance of metals, such as iron and steel, and non-ferrous metals, such as aluminium, copper, lead, tin and zinc. Chemical metallurgists deal with the extraction of metals from ores, and investigate metal corrosion and fatigue. Physical metallurgists study the behaviour of metals under stress and changes in temperature. Process metallurgists are concerned with shaping and joining metals, selecting the best metal to use for a particular application or designing metal components - ranging from support structures for large buildings such as airports, to tiny parts for use in medical science.

They usually work 37 to 40 hours a week, with some metallurgists working normal daytime hours, from Monday to Friday and others covering a 24-hour shift system. Working environments vary from clean laboratories, to noisy, hot and dirty iron and steel works. It may be necessary to travel to visit clients, both in the UK and overseas.

Salaries range from around £20,000 a year to £50,000 or more.

A metallurgist should:

• have strong scientific and mathematical abilities
• be able to keep meticulous records
• be able to make decisions under pressure and work to strict deadlines
• be prepared to keep up with changes in technology and have innovative ideas
• be able to work in a team and demonstrate initiative.

Metallurgists work for organisations such as companies producing iron, steel, copper, aluminium, gold, silver and other metals and alloys. Others work for foundries, manufacturers producing metal components and finished products, aircraft manufacturers and railways. Organisations employing metallurgists are located throughout the UK and overseas, especially in areas of specific industry activity such as steel manufacturing.

It is possible to enter the profession, particularly at technician level, with a Higher National Certificate/Diploma (HNC/D) or foundation degree in a subject such as metallurgy and materials or metals technology. Entry to an HNC/D or foundation degree course is usually with at least one A level and four GCSEs (A*-C) or equivalent qualifications.

However, most metallurgists are graduates. Relevant degree courses include metallurgy, materials science, chemical engineering and physics or other physical sciences. The Diploma in engineering may be relevant for this area of work.

Some organisations employing metallurgists offer Apprenticeships, which can lead to technician status and an EngTech qualification. Most training is provided by employers in-house. Many major employers offer graduate training programmes. Successful completion of an accredited graduate training programme may lead to membership of a professional institution. Metallurgists can go on to register as a professional engineer with the Engineering Council (ECUK), either as Incorporated Engineer (IEng) or Chartered Engineer (CEng).

Metallurgists can progress to positions of senior technical management.

Further details