Finishing Metallurgist
Company : Steel Dynamics
Location : Columbus, MS, 39701
Job Type : Full Time / Part Time
Date Posted : 11 January 2026
Division
Aluminum DynamicsOverview
Aluminum Dynamics LLC., is seeking disciplined, detail-oriented metallurgists for Finishing division of our state-of-the-art Aluminum Rolling Mill, located in the Golden Triangle Region of Mississippi. The incumbent to this position will become the metallurgical subject matter expert in coil-to-coil annealing and solution heat treatment within the finishing department. The Product Metallurgist will interact with process and product engineers to identify opportunities to meet customer requirements with improved product performance and capability. Key responsibilities will include setting up the finishing line operational parameters with process engineers, Finishing Subject Matter Expert role during commissioning, acceptance testing, and ramp-up for Can, Auto, and General Industry product lines for successful product qualification and maintenance of product metallurgy for performance.
Responsibilities
- Responsible for reviewing and approving product finishing capabilities associated with all finishing lines including continuous annealing, solution heat treat, surface treatment, coatings, slitting, etc. based on customer inquiries/orders
- Work closely with Process Metallurgists to set finishing line parameters to meet product finishing quality, and metallurgical requirements
- Work with multidisciplinary teams across the plant to analyze the finished product to identify surface & metallurgical criteria and support root cause discovery and elimination
- Technical leadership for coil-to-coil finishing of products during product trials in collaboration with Process Metallurgists, Engineers and Supervisors
- Develop best coil-to-coil finishing practices to improve production and productivity, minimize rework, and increase yield with on-time delivery
- Finishing Metallurgy subject matter expert responsibility and take lead role with other department Product Metallurgists to support the product development and qualification through the mill
- Use process data and appropriate problem-solving techniques to identify the underlying causes and lead the implementation of practical production solutions with the finishing team
- Develop corrective action plans along with the expected business impact, then execute and monitor to determine the effectiveness of the solution
- Provide support during customer visits, mill tours, technical exchanges and training in Coil-to-Coil finishing of products
- Support departmental training, finishing line audits, walk abouts, and mentory young technical team members on finishing practices.
Qualifications
- B.S. degree in Metallurgy, Materials Science, Mechanical or Chemical Engineering
- 2+ years of experience in aluminum sheet production and finishing experience
- Quality system support and working knowledge of ISO, IATF and other applicable standards
- Product development experience with heat treating, coating and coil finishing applications
- Proficiency in: Office programs, and statistical data analysis tools
- Lean manufacturing experience with continuous improvement for business impact and innovation
- Agile project implementation, good communication skills, and experience in matrix organization
- Strong leadership, verbal & written communications, and presentation skills
Benefits:
Steel Dynamics puts employees first with a robust benefits package. We’re also committed to the health and well-being of our team, urging employees to focus on wellness. When it comes to your health, we encourage everyone to take charge, take action, take care and be safe!These are just some of the ways we show our appreciation and ongoing commitment to our employees.
- Medical, Dental and Prescription Insurance
- Vision and Hearing Coverage
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Health Savings Accounts
- Castlight Health Navigation Platform
- Well-Being Program
- Life/AD and D Coverage
- Disability Coverage
- Profit Sharing and Retirement Savings
- Stock Benefits
- Educational Assistance
- Dependent Child Scholarships
- Paid Vacations and Holidays
Benefits may vary by division.
Steel Dynamics, Inc., and all affiliated entities are equal opportunity employers.
Frequently asked questions
Mastering coil-to-coil annealing is critical for a Finishing Metallurgist as it directly affects aluminum's mechanical properties and surface quality. Precise control during this process ensures optimal product durability and customer satisfaction, especially in high-demand sectors like automotive and can manufacturing.
A Finishing Metallurgist specializes in surface treatments, solution heat treatment, and coating applications specific to aluminum rolling mills. Unlike general metallurgists, they focus on final product quality, setting operational parameters for finishing lines, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure metallurgical integrity.
Advancement often involves expanding expertise into process development, product qualification leadership, or managerial roles overseeing finishing operations. Gaining proficiency in lean manufacturing and agile project implementation can also open doors to innovation-driven positions within aluminum dynamics and broader metals industries.
Professionals in Columbus, MS, often benefit from knowledge of ISO and IATF standards, crucial for maintaining quality in aluminum finishing lines. Local plant safety certifications and continuous improvement credentials enhance employability in a region known for its industrial manufacturing hubs.
Columbus, MS, part of the Golden Triangle, shows steady demand for metallurgists with aluminum finishing expertise, driven by the presence of advanced rolling mills like Steel Dynamics. This area values candidates with hands-on experience and lean manufacturing knowledge to support production excellence.
The Mississippi metalworking sector offers moderate competition, favoring candidates with specialized aluminum finishing skills and proven problem-solving abilities. Employers prioritize those familiar with coil-to-coil processes and quality systems to maintain their manufacturing edge.
Steel Dynamics presents opportunities to lead in product finishing innovation within a state-of-the-art facility, yet challenges include meeting tight production schedules and maintaining strict quality standards. Employees benefit from comprehensive wellness programs and a culture emphasizing continuous improvement.
Lean manufacturing is integral at Steel Dynamics, where Finishing Metallurgists drive improvements to reduce rework, enhance yield, and streamline finishing processes. This approach ensures efficient resource use and supports on-time delivery commitments in a collaborative plant environment.
The typical salary for a Finishing Metallurgist in Columbus, MS, ranges between $65,000 and $85,000 annually, reflecting the specialized aluminum finishing skills required. Compensation may vary with experience, certifications, and proficiency in lean manufacturing and process optimization.