PMA Analyst I

PMA Analyst I (Entry-Level / New Graduate Friendly)

Description

Hi-Rel Laboratories is seeking an entry-level PMA Analyst I to join our materials analysis department in Spokane, WA. This role is ideal for graduating students or early-career professionals interested in applying chemistry, materials science, or engineering principles in a hands-on laboratory environment. 

Under direction from the Materials Manager, the PMA Analyst I supports prohibited materials analysis by performing analytical testing, assisting with characterization techniques, and documenting findings in accordance with established procedures. This is an excellent opportunity to gain real-world laboratory experience while working alongside experienced analysts and engineers in an aerospace-related quality environment.

Training and mentoring are provided for new graduates to support skill development in laboratory techniques and documentation.

What you'll do:

• Perform materials analysis using established laboratory procedures and test workflows.
• Learn and assist with analytical techniques such as:
  • Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)
  • EDS spectroscopy
  • XRF spectroscopy
• Conduct inspection and material characterization activities.
• Meet with Materials Manager to understand requests and testing requirements.
• Collaborate with laboratory staff to troubleshoot technical issues
• Communicate technical information clearly in written documentation and verbal discussions.
• Complete analysis within required timelines and specifications.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and a clean, organized work area.
• Support compliance with AS-9100 quality requirements for laboratory operations.
• Collaborate with engineers to support yield, reliability, and corrective action efforts.

Competencies

• Technical Capacity
• Customer Focus
• Time Management
• Problem Solving/Analysis
• Communication Proficiency
• Teamwork
• Personal Effectiveness/Credibility
• Ownership

Supervisory Responsibility

This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

Pay Rate

• Starting Pay: $22.00 per hour (FLSA Non-Exempt).
• Position Pay Scale: $22.00 - $26.00 per hour
• Note: The starting pay for this role is $22.00. The full pay scale represents the earning potential for this position as an employee gains experience and tenure.

Requirements

Required / Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree or upcoming graduation in:
  • Chemistry
  • Materials Engineering
  • Metallurgical Engineering
  • Or a closely related engineering or science-based discipline.
• Recent graduates or students graduating within the next 6 months are encouraged to apply.
• Internships, co-op lab, research, or academic laboratory experience preferred.
• Ability to follow detailed procedures and document results accurately
• Strong communication skills
• Vision correctable to 20/20.

Position Type / Expected Hours of Work

Work Schedule for Students: Students may work a minimum of 12 hours per week prior to graduation, with transition to full-time after graduation.

• This is a full-time position. Days and hours of work are Monday through Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
• Evening and weekend work may be required as job duties demand/dictate.

Work Location

• This position is fully on-site at Hi-Rel Laboratories in Spokane, WA and requires hands-on laboratory work.
• Candidates must be available to attend an in-person interview as part of the selection process to ensure a clear understanding of the role and work environment.
• Relocation assistance is not available.

Why You'll Like this Role

• Hands-on laboratory experience using industry standard analytical equipment
• Structured procedures and mentoring to support early-career development
• Exposure to aerospace quality systems (AS-9100)
• Stable, full-time role with growth potential and advancement opportunities
• Competitive hourly pay with increases based on experience and tenure
• Comprehensive benefits including no-cost health insurance.

Benefits

Hi-Rel Labs is proud to offer a suite of benefits for all employees. Health Insurance (no charge to employees), approximately 10 days of Paid Time Off for first year employees, Up to 10 paid Holidays each year, Eye Exam benefits, Life Insurance benefit, Dental Insurance, Disability Insurance, 401(k) contribution, and access to a Section 125 Plan and additional voluntary benefits.

Work Authorization

Hi-Rel Laboratories requires that all employees be legally authorized to work in the United States, and it abides by all laws that prohibit the employment of undocumented foreign nationals. Any person employed by the Hi-Rel Laboratories must complete the federal Employment Eligibility Verification Form (1-9) within three days of hire. Additionally, Hi-Rel is ITAR compliant; an applicant must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., or protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Equal Opportunity

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.