39 lines
3.1 KiB
Markdown
39 lines
3.1 KiB
Markdown
# Tasks & work activities — materials engineer
|
|
|
|
Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 19-2032.00 (Materials Scientists).
|
|
|
|
## Task statements
|
|
|
|
- **[Core]** Perform experiments and computer modeling to study the nature, structure, and physical and chemical properties of metals and their alloys, and their responses to applied forces.
|
|
- **[Core]** Prepare reports, manuscripts, proposals, and technical manuals for use by other scientists and requestors, such as sponsors and customers.
|
|
- **[Core]** Supervise and monitor production processes to ensure efficient use of equipment, timely changes to specifications, and project completion within time frame and budget.
|
|
- **[Core]** Write research papers for publication in scientific journals.
|
|
- **[Core]** Plan laboratory experiments to confirm feasibility of processes and techniques used in the production of materials with special characteristics.
|
|
- **[Core]** Confer with customers to determine how to tailor materials to their needs.
|
|
- **[Core]** Conduct research on the structures and properties of materials, such as metals, alloys, polymers, and ceramics, to obtain information that could be used to develop new products or enhance existing ones.
|
|
- **[Core]** Devise testing methods to evaluate the effects of various conditions on particular materials.
|
|
- **[Core]** Determine ways to strengthen or combine materials or develop new materials with new or specific properties for use in a variety of products and applications.
|
|
- **[Core]** Recommend materials for reliable performance in various environments.
|
|
- **[Core]** Test individual parts and products to ensure that manufacturer and governmental quality and safety standards are met.
|
|
- **[Core]** Visit suppliers of materials or users of products to gather specific information.
|
|
- **[Core]** Research methods of processing, forming, and firing materials to develop such products as ceramic dental fillings, unbreakable dinner plates, and telescope lenses.
|
|
- **[Core]** Test material samples for tolerance under tension, compression, and shear to determine the cause of metal failures.
|
|
- **[Core]** Test metals to determine conformance to specifications of mechanical strength, strength-weight ratio, ductility, magnetic and electrical properties, and resistance to abrasion, corrosion, heat, and cold.
|
|
- **[Supplemental]** Teach in colleges and universities.
|
|
|
|
## Detailed work activities
|
|
|
|
- Advise others on the development or use of new technologies.
|
|
- Collect information from people through observation, interviews, or surveys.
|
|
- Conduct research to gain information about products or processes.
|
|
- Confer with clients to exchange information.
|
|
- Design research studies to obtain scientific information.
|
|
- Develop new or advanced products or production methods.
|
|
- Develop theories or models of physical phenomena.
|
|
- Devise research or testing protocols.
|
|
- Instruct college students in physical or life sciences.
|
|
- Monitor operational procedures in technical environments to ensure conformance to standards.
|
|
- Prepare scientific or technical reports or presentations.
|
|
- Test quality of materials or finished products.
|
|
- Write articles, books or other original materials in area of expertise.
|