Materials Analysis Engineer – Process Analysis and Laboratory Systems

Vulcan Elements • Research Triangle Park, NC

7h

About The Position

Vulcan Elements is manufacturing American rare-earth permanent magnets for a secure, resilient future. With a focus on national security and economic resiliency, we serve critical industries such as defense, aerospace, and automotive powering a high-technology future. Vulcan Elements is building a team of ambitious professionals committed to Mission Focus, Technical Excellence and Transparency.

We are seeking a highly motivated Materials Analysis Engineer to join our laboratory and analysis team. This individual will operate advanced analytical equipment, develop and refine testing methods, and ensure generation of reliable, high-quality data. In addition to hands-on laboratory work, the role involves advanced data analysis, including statistical and machine learning (ML) methods.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• Hands-on experience with materials characterization equipment (SEM, EDS, EBSD, ICP-OES, etc.) and metallographic sample preparation.
• Proficiency in data analysis, including statistics, scripting (Python) and data visualization.
• Must be a U.S. Person due to required access to U.S. export-controlled information or facilities.

Nice To Haves

• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to innovate in test method development desired.
• Experience with machine learning frameworks (scikit-learn, PyTorch, etc.).
• Knowledge of materials and mechanical thermodynamics, solidification, or powder metallurgy processes.
• Previous experience applying simulation tools to materials processing or structural analysis.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain advanced materials characterization equipment, including: Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) with EDS and EBSD Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES) Combustion and inert gas fusion analysis Laser diffraction particle size measurement Metallographic sample preparation (mounting, polishing, etching)
• Develop and improve laboratory test methods to enhance accuracy, reproducibility, and efficiency.
• Ensure consistent generation of high-quality data, including establishing quality control standards and calibration protocols.
• Perform in-depth data analysis using statistical methods and machine learning techniques.
• Develop, train, and validate ML models for materials data interpretation and prediction.
• Document procedures, test results, and method development in a clear, structured manner.
• Responsibilities and tasks outlined are not exhaustive and may change as determined by the needs of the business

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees