Senior Technician, Characterization

Job Description

Job Description

Company Overview:

Company Overview: MP Materials (NYSE: MP) is rebuilding American industrial capability for a new era of autonomy, robotics, and electrification.

We are the only U.S. company with a fully integrated rare earth supply chain—from mining and refining to advanced metal and magnet manufacturing. Our products include both the critical materials used to make permanent magnets and the finished magnets themselves—enabling next-generation technologies in robotics, automation, aerospace, transportation, defense, and energy systems. These materials are the foundation of physical AI—the convergence of computation, movement, and control.

We hire ambitious, mission-driven people who want to tackle complex challenges and shape the future of strategic industries. Our culture is rooted in teamwork, resiliency, and integrity, with a deep commitment to operational excellence and national purpose. MP is rapidly evolving from a materials producer into a leading U.S. manufacturer—and our people are driving that transformation.

Position Overview:

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.

Position 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.

Basic Qualifications:

• 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.

Desired Qualities:

• 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.

MP Materials is Proud to be an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer - EEO is The Law. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Underrepresented groups/Women/Disabled/Veterans are encouraged to apply. Candidates whose disabilities make them unable to meet the position’s requirements will still be considered qualified if they can perform the essential functions of the job with reasonable accommodation.

Your Right to Work – In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment verification document form upon hire.

For Assistance with Application - Alternative methods of applying for employment are available to individuals unable to submit an application through this site because of a disability. Contact Human Resources Department at View phone number on us.fitly.work; 1700 South Pavilion Center Dr. 8th Floor, Las Vegas, NV 89135 to discuss reasonable accommodation.