Chemist, 1

MP Materials Corp.•Fort Worth, TX

15h

About The Position

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Chemist to join the Magnet Technology group to support development technologies for advanced manufacturing to produce high-performance rare earth permanent magnets. The Chemist will be responsible for developing, validating, and optimizing analytical methods for ICP-OES (Inductively Coupled Plasma – Optical Emission Spectroscopy) as well as LECO CS/ONH techniques, among others. This position will have responsibility for a broad range of initiatives, including ensuring data integrity and supporting various development projects. This is a rare opportunity to play a key role in returning an essential manufacturing capability to the USA.

Requirements

B.S. in Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related discipline.
3-5 years of direct experience operating and developing methods on ICP-OES, LECO, and/or XRF instruments.
Strong understanding of interference, correction, spectral overlaps, and matrix effects.
Ability to develop novel digestion and fusion protocols for refractory materials.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Nice To Haves

Advanced proficiency in ICP-OES, LECO, and XRF, especially involving rare earth elements.
5+ years of experience working in an R&D or QA/QC environment with a proven track record of developing, optimizing, and validating new analytical methods.
Familiarity with other analytical instrumentation (e.g., DSC/TGA, SEM-EDS, XRD, and XRF).
Strong skills in statistical analysis, root cause analysis, and troubleshooting complex analytical challenges.
Ability to work independently and as a part of a collaborative team.
Lifelong learner able and enthusiastic to apply existing skills and experiences to new problems.

Responsibilities

Design, configure, and maintain SCADA/HMI systems, including FactoryTalk View SE/ME, Siemens WinCC, or similar platforms.
Perform advanced and routine analyses using ICP-OES, LECO CS/ONH analyzers, and XRF, ensuring accurate and reliable results.
Develop, validate, optimize, and troubleshoot analytical methods for a variety of matrices (raw materials, intermediates, and finished magnet products).
Collaborate with process development and R&D teams to develop advanced specialty characterization solutions.
Prepare and digest samples using appropriate wet chemistry techniques (acid digestion, fusion, etc.).
Troubleshoot instrument performance issues and perform routine maintenance and calibration.
Interpret and review analytical data with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
Clearly document and communicate results and methods, including creation of reports and standard work instructions.
Train and mentor technicians.
Handle corrosive and hazardous chemicals with proper PPE and safety protocols, and ensure laboratory safety, compliance with regulatory guidelines, and proper chemical waste handling.
Other duties as assigned.