SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) Characterization Technician

SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) Characterization Technician Torrance, California, United States Apply for Position Or refer someone Job Openings SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) Characterization Technician About the job SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) Characterization Technician Why Castelion, Why Now Castelion is moving incredibly fast to develop and deliver advanced defense systems at a time when execution matters more than ever. We believe focus and technical excellence are decisive advantages - and we are building a team that can deliver real capability, not just concepts. This is a rare opportunity to join at an early stage, where your work will directly shape critical systems, influence major technical decisions, and have immediate, real-world impact. SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy) Characterization Technician Castelion is seeking a detail-oriented Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) Characterization Technician to support the TPS material development program. This role will be responsible for specimen preparation, SEM operation, and microstructural characterization of advanced aerospace materials. The successful candidate will work closely with the Materials & Processes team to generate high-quality microscopy data in support of material development, qualification, and production. Responsibilities Prepare specimens for SEM analysis using standard metallographic preparation techniques. Operate SEM equipment to characterize metallic, ceramic, polymeric, and composite materials. Perform microstructural characterization including coating dimensional measurements and morphology. Generate microscopy reports and maintain organized image and data archives. Coordinate characterization activities with the Materials & Processes team. Maintain SEM, polishers and all associated laboratory equipment and ensure safe laboratory practices. Basic Qualifications Associate degree, technical certification, or equivalent laboratory experience in materials science, metallurgy, engineering technology, or a related field. Preferred Skills and Experience Experience with metallographic specimen preparation and microscopy techniques. Experience operating scanning electron microscopy (SEM) equipment is preferred. Strong attention to detail and excellent documentation skills. Ability to work effectively in a laboratory environment. Benefits And Perks Employee Equity: Meaningful equity for all full-time employees - share value has increased 150x in three years Personal Time Off: Four (4) weeks of paid time off to unplug, reset, and come back sharp—velocity matters, burnout doesn't Company Paid Holidays: Ten (10) company paid holidays Medical: We offer plans at 100% employee covered and 80% of dependent coverage Dental & Vision: We cover 90% employees and 80% for dependents to ensure you and your family have access to quality preventive and ongoing care FSA/HSA: To support long-term health and financial resilience, we offer FSA and HSA options that allow employees to set aside pre-tax dollars for eligible medical and dependent care expenses Retirement: 401k plan offered to support long term financial growth along side high-impact, high-velocity work Paid Parental Leave: We support growing families with meaningful time to bond and recover. Birthing parents are eligible for up to 10 weeks of paid leave, while non-birthing parents may take up to 4 weeks of paid leave. This time can be used for pre-natal care, pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical needs—ensuring every parent has the support they need during this important life moment.8-weeks of paid parental leave for all parents. Additional paid pregnancy leave for CA employees Meals & Catering: Frequently catered lunches and team meals, plus company-covered meals when extra time or effort is required Snacks & Beverages: Fully stocked kitchen with unlimited snacks and drinks to keep you fueled throughout the...