21109 – Other professional occupations in physical sciences

Lead statement

Metallurgists conduct theoretical and applied research in metallurgy.

Main duties

• Conduct studies into the properties and production of metals and alloys.
• Conduct research into the properties, composition and production of materials such as ceramics and composite materials.
• Conduct research into the composition, distribution and evolution of soils.
• Command, pilot or serve as crew members of a spacecraft to conduct scientific experiments and research, and participate in space missions as mission specialists to maintain spacecraft, install and repair space station equipment and launch and recapture satellites.

Employment requirements

• A bachelor's degree in metallurgy, physics, chemistry, or a related physical science discipline is required.
• A master's or doctoral degree is usually required for employment as a research scientist.
• Advanced degrees in a broad range of applied science areas, such as engineering or medicineorlicences may be required for some occupations in this unit group.

Example job titles

metallurgist · physical metallurgist · pyrometallurgist · hydrometallurgist · ballistics examiner · firearms expert · materials engineering scientist · materials scientist · pedologist · soil scientist · astronaut · cosmonaut

Wages (per hour)

Source: Job Bank wages, 2025 release (ESDC). Low and high are the 10th and 90th percentiles.