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How to become a metallurgist

Specialise in metal production, recovery, and purification.

Pathways to this career

  1. Complete bachelor degree in science or engineering, majoring in metallurgy or chemical engineering. An honours year may be required, depending on the specific degree.

  2. Ready to take your career to new heights? Define your expertise as a metallurgist with a postgraduate applied science degree.

  3. Stay on-top of what's happening in your industry with organisations like Engineers Australia or the Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy.

What does a metallurgist do?

Metallurgists are scientists who research and advise on extracting and casting metals. They work in labs and on the floor, often with engineering or manufacturing professionals, to produce metal products and develop new alloys.

Duties and tasks

  • Advise miners and others who work with metals on the proper process for separating minerals and metals from their ores.

  • Assist in producing commercial metal products.

  • Develop new extraction and processing methods for metals.

  • Observe and advise on welding, heat treating, casting, and alloying processes.

  • Research and study the composition of metals.

Industry bodies

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