Operator (Production)

Vulcan Elements • Durham, NC

3h • Onsite

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. The Production Operator is a hands-on operational role responsible for the safe and reliable execution of high-temperature metallurgical processes within Vulcan’s operations. The role operates on rotating shifts and follows approved Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), with safety as the top priority always. This position supports daily production activities, equipment preparation, process monitoring, metal tapping, housekeeping, and coordination with technicians and engineering staff. Duties listed are representative and not intended to be limiting.

Requirements

• Willingness and ability to work rotating shifts, including nights and weekends.
• Hands-on experience or aptitude in industrial or manufacturing operations.
• Ability to follow written procedures and safety instructions.
• Conduct preventive maintenance (PM) activities on a scheduled basis and in response to operational conditions.
• Able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs and perform physically demanding work in industrial environments.
• Highschool diploma or equivalent.
• Must be a U.S. Person due to required access to U.S. export-controlled information or facilities

Nice To Haves

• Experience operating vacuum furnaces, casting machines, atomizers, or similar metal manufacturing equipment.
• Forklift and lifting/rigging equipment operation (certification preferred).

Responsibilities

• Prepare equipment and work areas prior to startup, including cleaning, inspection, and execution of field checklists.
• Execute controlled startup, steady-state operation, shutdown, and cleaning procedures.
• Monitor PLC/HMI systems and respond to alarms, deviations, and abnormal operating conditions per procedures.
• Collect in-process samples and ensure proper handling and documentation.
• Replace worn components and consumables as instructed.
• Maintain housekeeping and orderly working conditions in operational areas.
• Complete operational logs, checklists, and production records accurately.
• Communicate process status and escalate anomalies to supervisors.
• Contribute to the buildout of Vulcan’s pilot and R&D line, including commissioning, and continuous equipment and facility improvements

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED