Quality Laboratory Engineer

Key Responsibilities

Laboratory testing & material characterization

• Perform and interpret refractory material tests according to Vesuvius standards.
• Conduct the incoming inspection of RM.
• Ensure accuracy, repeatability, and compliance of all test results.
• Maintain and improve laboratory testing methods and documentation.
• Support root‑cause analysis for internal and customer issues through data‑driven evaluation.
• Issue the certificates confirming compliance with the customer specifications.

Quality management & compliance

• Ensure adherence to the Quality Management System (QMS) and Environmental Management System (EMS).
• Maintain full traceability of test data, batch records, and material certifications.
• Support compliance audits and implement corrective actions.
• Communicate quality alerts and provide technical training to operators and technicians.

Process & production support

• Provide engineering‑level insights to production teams regarding material behavior, process deviations, and product performance.
• Participate in investigations of non‑conformities and support containment actions.
• Validate measurement tools and ensure proper calibration and usage.
• Collaborate with Process Engineering to align lab results with process capability and product performance.

Continuous Improvement & Lean support

• Apply Lean tools (5S, standardization, waste reduction) within the laboratory.
• Lead or support improvement projects related to testing accuracy, cycle time, and data integrity.
• Improve laboratory workflows, documentation, and testing efficiency.

Equipment & Infrastructure Management

• Maintain, calibrate (third-party), and troubleshoot laboratory equipment.
• Coordinate external service and ensure equipment readiness.
• Identify opportunities for equipment upgrades or method improvements.

New Product Implementation (NPI) & Change Management

• Support NPI trials through testing, data collection, and validation.
• Collaborate with R&D and regional technical teams on material evaluations and technology transfers.
• Participate in customer investigations by providing technical data and failure analysis.

Succession & Knowledge Transfer

• Learn from the senior laboratory technicians and progressively assume responsibilities to ensure continuity.
• Document critical knowledge, methods, and testing standards to reduce single‑point‑of‑failure risk.

Authority & Accountability

• Stop release of materials if results indicate non‑conformity or safety risk.
• Ensure data integrity and accuracy in all laboratory systems.
• Escalate abnormalities in testing, equipment, or material behavior.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned by site management to support operational objectives.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Ceramic Engineering, or related technical field.

Experience

• 1-3 years in laboratory, materials, or manufacturing environments preferred.
• Experience with refractory materials, ceramics, or industrial testing is an advantage.

Technical Skills & Knowledge

• Strong understanding of material science and laboratory testing methods.
• Ability to interpret test results and link them to product and process performance.
• Familiarity with SPC, DOE, and quality tools. Knowledge of ISO 9001 and laboratory safety standards.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint); experience with MiniTab is a plus.

Key Competencies

• Analytical thinking and structured problem solving.
• Strong attention to detail and data accuracy.
• Effective communication and cross‑functional collaboration.
• Ability to work under time pressure and manage multiple priorities.
• Continuous improvement mindset and openness to change.

Reporting Structure:

Quality & Technical Manager - Laboratory Engineer