Metallurgical Engineer

Metallurgists study the properties of metals and then apply their findings to practical applications, such as metal production. They work with a range of metals including copper, precious metals, iron, steel, zinc, and aluminum alloys. Metallurgists can work in a number of areas including civil engineering, aircraft manufacture, automotive engineering, and the defense industry. They might also be called materials engineers and will often find themselves working in a team made up of engineers, chemists, and other materials scientists.

Metallurgists usually specialize in one of three areas:

• Chemical metallurgists focus on the extraction of metals. They conduct tests on ores and figure out the best method of extraction. They also test metals for signs of corrosion.
• Physical metallurgists study how a metal behaves in different conditions including in a hot environment or when it's put under stress. They will investigate any signs of weakness.
• Process metallurgists design metal parts. They are responsible for shaping metal parts through methods such as casting, as well as joining metal parts by welding and soldering them.