Lead, Powder Laboratory Engineer

Founded in 2015 to develop the world’s first industrially scalable laser metal additive manufacturing solution, VulcanForms is reshaping how the world manufactures critical products. We build and operate advanced digital infrastructure that enables innovation, accelerates growth, and supports sustainability across aerospace, defense, medical, and other essential industries. Through our vertically integrated capabilities, including scalable additive manufacturing and precision machining, we deliver true end-to-end production at scale by combining cutting-edge technology with a foundation of proven industrial craftsmanship. Our team brings deep expertise in manufacturing, materials science, software, automation, and operations, united by a shared commitment to quality, curiosity, and accountability. We foster an inclusive culture where people take ownership, solve meaningful problems, and continuously learn, because we believe diverse perspectives lead to better outcomes.

As the Lead, Powder Laboratory Engineer at VulcanForms, you will be responsible for ensuring reliable, traceable, and production-ready metal powder quality by executing and governing powder testing, laboratory quality systems, and data-driven decision-making across the full powder lifecycle.

• Lead routine and advanced powder testing for incoming, in-process, reused and recycled powders to verify conformance to defined specifications and production requirements.
• Execute and oversee powder characterization activities, including particle size distribution, morphology, flowability, density measurements, chemistry screening, and contamination risk assessments.
• Develop, enforce, and continuously improve laboratory SOPs, work instructions, sampling plans, and method validation practices.
• Own laboratory measurement system integrity, including calibration, gage R&R, repeatability/reproducibility, and method proficiency checks.
• Drive powder-related nonconformance investigations, root-cause analysis, and corrective/preventive actions in collaboration with operations and engineering teams.
• Maintain full traceability from powder test results to material lots, build assignments, and disposition decisions, enabling fast and confident production actions.

• 7+ years of experience in powder testing, materials characterization, laboratory quality engineering, or a related manufacturing quality role.
• Hands-on experience with powder characterization techniques such as PSD analysis, flowability testing, density measurements, and chemical or contamination screening methods.
• Demonstrated experience developing and maintaining laboratory quality systems, including (M)SOPs, calibration programs, and measurement system analysis.
• Strong problem-solving skills with experience investigating nonconformance's and implementing corrective and preventive actions.
• Ability to work cross-functionally with operations, engineering, and supply chain teams in a production environment.

• Experience supporting powder qualification or laboratory operations in metal additive manufacturing or powder metallurgy.
• Familiarity with titanium or other reactive metal powders and associated handling, storage, and safety considerations.
• Experience with laboratory data systems, dashboards, or LIMS, and applying data analytics to improve quality and cycle time.

• Ability to work in laboratory and manufacturing environments, including safe handling of metal powders, samples, and test equipment, in accordance with safety protocols.

VulcanForms offers a competitive salary and equity package. Actual compensation is based on factors such as the candidate's skills, qualifications, and experience. In addition, VulcanForms provides comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance; generous paid time off; and a 401(k) plan with company match. 

The annual base salary range for this position is $117,000 to $161,000.