What are the responsibilities and job description for the Metallurgical Engineer position at Forum Energy Technologies?
JOB SUMMARY
We are seeking a highly skilled Metallurgical Engineer with expertise in root cause analysis investigations related to coiled tubing and downhole tools used in the oil and gas industry. The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting metallurgical investigations, root cause analyses, and material performance evaluations to improve the reliability and durability of coiled tubing.
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in fractography, corrosion analysis, mechanical testing, and material selection for oilfield applications. They will work closely with engineering, field operations, and manufacturing teams to develop solutions that enhance coiled tubing performance and mitigate failure risks.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Root Cause Analysis & Investigation
- Conduct root cause analysis (RCFA) of coiled tubing failures, including fracture, fatigue, stress corrosion cracking (SCC), and wear-related issues.
- Perform metallurgical testing (SEM, EDS, XRD, optical microscopy, and hardness testing) to assess material properties and failure mechanisms.
- Analyze operational conditions, well environments, and manufacturing processes that contribute to failure.
- Prepare detailed failure analysis reports with findings, conclusions, and recommendations for corrective actions.
Material Performance & Selection
- Evaluate the metallurgical properties and mechanical performance of coiled tubing materials under different service conditions.
- Assess the impact of corrosive environments (H2S, CO2, chlorides, high-temperature/high-pressure) on material degradation.
- Provide material selection recommendations for coiled tubing based on field conditions, metallurgy, and cost-benefit analysis.
- Collaborate with suppliers and manufacturers to improve material quality and specifications.
Testing & Research
- Support non-destructive testing (NDT) methods such as eddy current, ultrasonic, and magnetic flux leakage inspections.
- Develop and validate new materials, coatings, and heat treatment processes to extend coiled tubing life.
Technical Support & Collaboration
- Provide technical guidance on manufacturing processes, welding, and heat treatment to optimize coiled tubing integrity.
- Assist in the development of industry standards and best practices related to coiled tubing materials and performance.
- Work closely with field engineers, operations teams, and R&D groups to troubleshoot coiled tubing failures in real-world applications.
Documentation & Compliance
- Maintain records of failure investigations, test results, and material specifications.
- Ensure compliance with industry standards (API, ASTM, NACE, ISO) for metallurgical integrity and failure prevention.
- Contribute to technical papers, presentations, and training materials on RCFA analysis and metallurgical best practices.
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE
Education:
- Bachelors or Masters degree in Metallurgical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
Experience:
- 3 years of experience in metallurgical failure analysis, preferably in the oil and gas industry.
- Strong background in fracture mechanics, corrosion science, fatigue analysis, and material degradation.
- Experience with coiled tubing, downhole tools, or well intervention equipment is highly desirable.
- Familiarity with metallurgical laboratory techniques, mechanical testing, and non-destructive evaluation (NDE).
Technical Skills:
- Knowledge in scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and metallography.
- Knowledge of corrosion mechanisms, stress corrosion cracking (SCC), hydrogen embrittlement, and high-pressure/high-temperature (HPHT) environments.
- Expertise in material selection, heat treatment processes, and microstructural analysis.
- Strong understanding of API, ASTM, NACE, and ISO standards for oil and gas applications.
- Certification in NACE corrosion engineering, API standards, or ASNT Level II/III in NDT techniques.
- Background in welding metallurgy, additive manufacturing, or coatings for oilfield applications.
Soft Skills:
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication for technical reporting and presentations.
- Ability to work independently and collaborate in a cross-functional team.
- Detail-oriented with a strong commitment to quality and safety.
About FET
FET (Forum Energy Technologies, Inc.) is a global company, serving the crude oil, natural gas, and renewable energy industries. FET is headquartered in Houston, TX with quality manufacturing, efficient distribution, and service facilities conveniently located to support the major energy-producing regions of the world. Forum’s products and services range from the underwater reservoir to the refinery, from the sea floor to the above ground transportation line. We pride ourselves on giving you a comprehensive offering of solutions to maximize your operations and improve your bottom line. Our customers are our partners and we work with them to solve their ever-changing challenges.
FET is an Equal Opportunity Employer. FET does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected under federal, state, or local law. All employment decisions and practices at FET are subject to the foregoing non-discrimination provisions and are based solely on merit, competence, performance, and business needs at the time.