Senior Technician, Characterization

MP Materials Corp. • Fort Worth, TX

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About The Position

We are seeking a hands-on Senior Technician, Characterization to join the Magnet Technology group to support development technologies for advanced manufacturing to produce high-performance rare earth permanent magnets. The Technician, Characterization will be responsible for running a variety of analytical tests to provide critical data for process development, including but not limited to ICP-OES, LECO CS/ONH, optical and electron microscopy, metallographic sample preparation, XRD, XRF, thermal analysis, and magnetometry. This is a rare opportunity to play a key role in returning an essential manufacturing capability to the USA.

Requirements

• Associate’s degree in chemistry or a related field.
• 5+ years experience working in a wet chemistry lab or analytical lab, preparing samples and operating sensitive instruments.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Strong discipline in following safety practices and standard work instructions.
• Ability to work independently and as a part of a collaborative research team.
• Comfortable with record keeping in both physical and electronic formats.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment managing multiple priorities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Nice To Haves

• 5+ years experience with one or more of the following techniques: ICP-OES, LECO CS/ONH, optical and electron microscopy, metallographic sample preparation, XRD, XRF, thermal analysis, and magnetometry.

Responsibilities

• Perform advanced and routine analyses using ICP-OES, LECO CS/ONH, optical and electron microscopy, metallographic sample preparation, XRD, XRF, thermal analysis, and magnetometry, ensuring accurate and reliable results.
• Prepare and digest ICP-OES samples using appropriate wet chemistry techniques (acid digestion, fusion, etc.).
• Metallographic sample preparation, e.g. cutting, mounting, and polishing.
• Troubleshoot instrument performance issues and perform routine maintenance and calibration.
• Clearly document and communicate results and methods, including creation of reports and standard work instructions.
• Train and mentor junior technicians to ensure high-quality execution of experimental trials and data collection, providing technical guidance in analytical techniques, and fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workplace.
• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree