Posted 21 July, 2026
Liquidus & Sample Prep Technician
TalentBurst, Inc.
Corning, NY, US
Full Time
Job Description
Job Description
Job Title: Liquidus & Sample Prep Technician – POI Defects & Mineralogy
Location: Decker Building, Corning, NY - 100% On-Site
Duration: 12+ Months
Type:
Preference for local candidates, but willing to consider non-local candidates willing to relocate at own expense.
Top skills: BS in Geology, Material Science, or related scientific field. 0-3 years' experience. Hands on experience with optical microscopy heavily preferred.
Scope of Position:
The selected candidate will combine hands-on experience with scientific principles to provide technical support to scientists and engineers involved in research, development, and manufacturing of glasses through devitrification testing, analysis and sample preparation. This position will focus on conducting analysis primarily using Optical Microscopy combined with Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), along with hands-on sample preparation in a laboratory environment.
Role Intent
The role would focus on training and supporting standard liquidus and devitrification testing, including gradient strip, isothermal, and CGR samples. For the first three months, the individual would be dedicated 100% to liquidus work to ensure adequate training and proficiency. Following successful completion, they could expand to support other analytical or project needs.
Strong technical aptitude and willingness to spend most of the day working at a microscope are required. A contract position is recommended initially.
Day to Day Responsibilities:
Analyze and image prepared samples using optical methods including stereomicroscopy and polarized light microscopy.
Petrography, including identification of crystalline phases within glass, exact key measurements, and document observations.
Sample preparation of glass and refractory materials including cutting, mounting, epoxying, grinding, and polishing.
Conduct imaging and chemical analysis using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX). Conduct analysis on X-Ray Diffractometer (XRD).
Manage workload to ensure optimal turnaround, accuracy, and experimental efficiency. Use of internal work request system for sample tracking and reporting.
Prepare reports and data compilation for Geologists and Engineering staff.
Support maintenance of lab operations and supplies.
Required Education & Experience
BS in Geology, Material Science, or related scientific field. 0-3 years experience.
Required Skills
Hands on experience in optical microscopy will set you apart.
Ability to gather information independently using established and defined procedures.
Collaborate to solve more complex problems.
Desire to work in a lab environment.
Ability to lift 10-25lbs
Desired Skills
Knowledge of other lab tools (SEM/EDX, XRD, microprobe, ICPMS, etc).
Sample preparation experience (mounting, epoxying, grinding, polishing).
Experience with glass and refractories is a plus.
Soft Skills
Attention to detail. Inquisitive mind. Personal responsibility for quality and accuracy.
Self-Starter. Ability to train and work independently but with overall guidance available.
Positive demeanor and collaborative approach.
Strong organization and time management skills.
Technology
Must like working with analytical tools, specifically optical microscopes.
Responsive to e-mail communication. Use of work request and tracking systems.
Basic Microsoft Excel and Office functionality
#TB_OTH
#ZR
Company DescriptionLocation: Decker Building, Corning, NY - 100% On-Site
Duration: 12+ Months
Type:
Preference for local candidates, but willing to consider non-local candidates willing to relocate at own expense.
Top skills: BS in Geology, Material Science, or related scientific field. 0-3 years' experience. Hands on experience with optical microscopy heavily preferred.
Scope of Position:
The selected candidate will combine hands-on experience with scientific principles to provide technical support to scientists and engineers involved in research, development, and manufacturing of glasses through devitrification testing, analysis and sample preparation. This position will focus on conducting analysis primarily using Optical Microscopy combined with Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), along with hands-on sample preparation in a laboratory environment.
Role Intent
The role would focus on training and supporting standard liquidus and devitrification testing, including gradient strip, isothermal, and CGR samples. For the first three months, the individual would be dedicated 100% to liquidus work to ensure adequate training and proficiency. Following successful completion, they could expand to support other analytical or project needs.
Strong technical aptitude and willingness to spend most of the day working at a microscope are required. A contract position is recommended initially.
Day to Day Responsibilities:
Analyze and image prepared samples using optical methods including stereomicroscopy and polarized light microscopy.
Petrography, including identification of crystalline phases within glass, exact key measurements, and document observations.
Sample preparation of glass and refractory materials including cutting, mounting, epoxying, grinding, and polishing.
Conduct imaging and chemical analysis using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX). Conduct analysis on X-Ray Diffractometer (XRD).
Manage workload to ensure optimal turnaround, accuracy, and experimental efficiency. Use of internal work request system for sample tracking and reporting.
Prepare reports and data compilation for Geologists and Engineering staff.
Support maintenance of lab operations and supplies.
Required Education & Experience
BS in Geology, Material Science, or related scientific field. 0-3 years experience.
Required Skills
Hands on experience in optical microscopy will set you apart.
Ability to gather information independently using established and defined procedures.
Collaborate to solve more complex problems.
Desire to work in a lab environment.
Ability to lift 10-25lbs
Desired Skills
Knowledge of other lab tools (SEM/EDX, XRD, microprobe, ICPMS, etc).
Sample preparation experience (mounting, epoxying, grinding, polishing).
Experience with glass and refractories is a plus.
Soft Skills
Attention to detail. Inquisitive mind. Personal responsibility for quality and accuracy.
Self-Starter. Ability to train and work independently but with overall guidance available.
Positive demeanor and collaborative approach.
Strong organization and time management skills.
Technology
Must like working with analytical tools, specifically optical microscopes.
Responsive to e-mail communication. Use of work request and tracking systems.
Basic Microsoft Excel and Office functionality
#TB_OTH
#ZR
Why TalentBurst?
At TalentBurst, we deliver more than talent, we deliver outcomes. We partner with you to move quickly and connect you to opportunities aligned with your skills and long term growth.
Backed by precision, transparency, and results, we connect top talent with leading organizations through trusted partnerships.
We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and retirement options.
TalentBurst is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive and diverse workforce.
Founded in 2002 by three former Monster.com executives; TalentBurst is an award-winning full-service Staffing Firm working directly with Fortune 500 companies in the US and Canada. We specialize in Contract and Contract to Permanent roles across many industries and have direct/contractual relationships with all our clients. Please visit our website www.talentburst.com or come meet us at our offices in Natick, MA, Miami, FL, Christiansburg, VA, Vineland, NJ, Houston, TX & downtown San Francisco, CA
