Typical work activities Using scientific laboratory and shopfloor equipment to prepare and examine specimens of materials including failed components. Techniques include polishing, etching, optical and electron microscopy, photography, radiography, x-ray crystallography and mechanical testing. Organisation and operation of laboratories can also be a feature of this work. Academic institutions and government research establishments also offer opportunities. This is sometimes possible Limited possibilities but there is some scope in failure analysis and non destructive testing.
Sophisticated equipment used on time hire basis.
Training Many employers offer management or supervisor training through in-house company schemes, sometimes leading to a formal qualification. Part-time study for degree or MSc may be encouraged and supported. Career development You can progress into management of laboratories, but this would usually depend on you gaining further relevant qualifications. There are wide variations in industrial salary as this depends on location, size of organisation and the nature of the business. Working hours and conditions Typically includes mainly 9-5 possibly with some extra hours Usually laboratory based.