Applications Development Assistant

Elements Solutions Inc -
Birmingham

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Job details

From £32,657 a year
20 hours ago

Benefits

Free parking
Company pension
On-site parking

Qualifications

Laboratory experience
Analysis skills
Organisational skills

Full job description

Who are we looking for?

The Applications Development Assistant (Laboratory Technician / Metallurgist) is responsible for performing analytical and mechanical tests on internal and external customer or OEM parts within the physical test lab that belongs to the UK Application Laboratory.

In this role, the Assistant supports customer activities and strategic initiatives across the EMEA region. The position also contributes to Application Development Projects by ensuring high-quality, reliable test execution, proper documentation and compliance with key industry specifications for the electroplating and surface finishing field.

What will you be doing?

Test & Analysis Execution

Conduct analytical and physical tests on plated and coated components
Perform thickness measurement, corrosion tests, pore/crack count, mechanical tests, hardness measurement, and coefficient of friction tests
Carry out microscopy, SEM analysis, cross-section preparation, and failure investigations

Support to Application Development, Technical Development, R&D and global CoE

Support internal projects through test execution, data collection, and preliminary analysis
Assist in evaluating new products, processes, or materials

Laboratory & Equipment Management

Operate and maintain lab equipment, ensuring proper calibration and readiness
Follow safety rules, manage consumables, and support continuous improvement efforts

Reporting & Documentation

Prepare clear, accurate, and complete test reports
Document test setups, conditions, deviations, and observations in line with lab quality standards

Specifications & Standards

Apply relevant industry and OEM specifications accurately during test execution
If applicable: apply requirements set by DIN EN ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation

Others

Support training activities for internal and external customers
Contribute to continuous improvement activities to increase efficiency, quality, and reliability of sample production.

Who are You?

Graduate level or experience with relevant qualifications.
Technical education, apprenticeship, or vocational training in materials science, surface engineering, chemistry, metallurgy, physics, or similar technical fields.
Practical experience in a laboratory environment would be preferred.
Basic knowledge of electroplating, coatings, or surface finishing processes would be an advantage but not required.
Experience with laboratory test equipment (XRF, corrosion chambers, microscopes, hardness testers, SEM) is an advantage but training can be given.
Ability to document clearly and communicate effectively using word, excel etc.
Knowledge of OEM specifications or industry norms is a plus

What competencies will you need?

Technical Skills

Strong hands-on laboratory and analytical testing skills
Experience with (or willingness to learn) for example:
- Thickness measurement (XRF, coulometric)
- Pore and crack count analysis
- Climatic and corrosion tests (NSS, CASS, climate/temperature cycling)
- Mechanical tests (peel strength, hardness, coefficient of friction)
- Microscopy (optical, SEM, cross-section preparation)
Ability to interpret and work with technical standards and specifications (ISO, DIN, ASTM, OEM norms)
Experience with laboratory equipment care: calibration, preventive maintenance, troubleshooting
Competence in documenting test data and preparing structured technical reports
Understanding of electroplating and surface finishing is a plus
Experience with DIN EN ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation of laboratories is a plus

Behavioral Competencies

High attention to detail and accuracy
Analytical thinking and curiosity — especially in root-cause / failure investigations
Effective communication and collaboration with Sales, Business Development, Application and technical development, R&D, and other stakeholders
Structured work approach with strong organizational and documentation skills.
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a cross‑functional team.
Proactive mindset with willingness to learn and apply new technologies
Reliability, safety awareness, and adherence to laboratory standards.

We are Offering...

For this role we are offering a salary starting from £32,657 per annum
Annual Bonus scheme
Life Assurance
Generous Pension Scheme
Private Health Care
Health Cash Plan
Free On Site Parking

Apply Now

Who are we looking for?

What will you be doing?

Who are You?

What competencies will you need?

We are Offering...

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