Materials technician
Run tests on materials to see how they can be used to improve products people use every day.
About the job
What it's like
Are you someone who loves to help make things? In this role, you'll run tests on materials to see how they can be used to improve products people use every day.
As a materials technician, your work means a higher standard of goods can be produced quicker. This lets people to buy them in the shops for lower prices.
The materials you work on could be used to make anything from computers and mobile phones to cars, clothes and furniture. Companies will use your test results to improve their products, remove faults from materials and develop new processes.
Your tasks might include:
testing a material's strength and flexibility
studying the chemical makeup of different materials
finding out about any special features materials have
researching cost, safety and environmental impact of each material
thinking about new ways to use materials
writing a report on your findings and sharing these with the company you're working for
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
WISE – inspires girls and women to study and build careers using science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM)
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
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Engineering and manufacturing -
Energy -
Chemical sciences
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- implementing ideas
- researching
- working with numbers
- problem solving
- written communication
- working with technology
- verbal communication
- cooperating
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
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Chemistry
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Design and Manufacture
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Engineering Science
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Physics
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Practical Craft Skills
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Skills for Work: Engineering Skills
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Foundation Apprenticeship: Engineering
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
There are a couple of ways you can get into a career as a materials technician.
Apprenticeships
Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) mean you learn on the job. You get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time. You might want to consider an MA in Process Manufacturing.
College
Getting qualifications at college, such as an HNC or HND, could help you secure a job or progress to more advanced study. Useful subjects include:
Manufacturing Engineering
Engineering
Chemical and Materials Engineering
Applied Science
Use My World of Work's course search to find courses.
Trainee roles
You can apply for a lab assistant or trainee materials technician role. You'll be in a good position to work your way up to become a materials technician.
You'll learn on the job without needing previous experience. You can use the My World of Work job search to look for trainee roles.
Getting work experience in a relevant role can help you build the skills and experience you’ll need to become a materials technician. Search for opportunities on Volunteer Scotland.
Find the right course for you
Browse courses in Scotland related to 'Materials technician'
