GBD Engineer, Magnet Technology

MP Materials Corp. • Fort Worth, TX

7d

About The Position

MP Materials is seeking a hands-on Engineer to support the development of advanced manufacturing technologies for grain boundary diffusion (GBD) in high-performance rare earth permanent magnets. This role focuses on optimizing magnetic properties through interface engineering, diffusion treatments, and tailored thermal treatments. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in materials thermodynamics, diffusion kinetics, and physical metallurgy. This is a rare opportunity to play a key role in returning an essential manufacturing capability to the USA.

Requirements

• Master’s or Ph.D. in Materials Science & Engineering, Metallurgy, Physics, or related field.
• Hands-on experience with metallurgical or ceramic processing, heat treatments, and materials characterization methods.
• Deep understanding of materials thermodynamics and kinetics.
• Agile researcher, adept at identifying untested questions about materials and the interactions between processing, structure, and performance.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with manufacturing rare earth materials and permanent magnets.
• Experience leading technical development projects, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple concurrent projects.
• Experience with programming, modeling, and/or machine learning techniques and the ability to apply those skills to advance physical understanding of materials.
• Lifelong learner able and enthusiastic to apply existing skills and experiences to new problems.

Responsibilities

• Lead experimental projects, overseeing project planning, execution, and delivery of the development and optimization of GBD processes at the laboratory and pilot-scale to enhance the magnetic properties of permanent rare-earth magnets.
• Design and conduct experiments to optimize new materials and processes, including but not limited to developing and refining heat treatment profiles to support GBD and microstructural control in permanent rare-earth magnet systems.
• Characterize microstructure and diffusion behavior using advanced materials analysis techniques such as SEM-EDS, EPMA, XRD, DSC, etc.
• Apply laboratory and pilot-scale findings to assist process scale up to production.
• Mentor technicians and engineers to ensure high-quality execution of experimental trials and data collection, providing technical guidance in metallurgical materials, and fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development.
• Lead and manage development projects, document and communicate findings, and build team knowledge of current and future magnet research.
• Work closely with EHS to ensure that all work is done to ensure world-class health and safety, and full compliance with relevant environmental regulations.
• Other duties as assigned.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level