Metallurgist

Metallurgists are a subset of a larger category of physical science professionals. Metallurgists primarily study the processing and composition of various metals. They also do work on studying extraction processes.

Duties and tasks

Advising miners and others who work with metals on the proper process for separating minerals and metals from their ores
Assisting in producing commercial metal products
Developing new extraction and processing methods for metals
Observing and advising on welding, heat treating, casting, and alloying processes
Researching and studying the composition of metals

Skills required

Active listening skills
Excellent knowledge of physical science
Oral and written communication skills
Reading comprehension
Use of logic, critical thinking, and reasoning to solve complex problems

Working conditions

Metallurgists are found in a variety of settings. They may work in commercial labs or for other private industries. They also may work for governments or in university or other academic settings.