Laboratory Technician – Materials Characterization

Employer description

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 Integrity. 

As an Analytical Laboratory Technician, you will perform sample preparation, analytical testing, and materials characterization in support of rare-earth permanent magnet R&D and production. Working under the guidance of the Laboratory Manager, experienced technicians, and Testing & Characterization Engineers, you will learn established test methods, operate laboratory instruments, and maintain accurate records. This hands-on role requires attention to detail, safe working practices, and a willingness to develop new laboratory skills. 

Responsibilities 

· Perform routine analytical testing on raw materials, metal powders, in-process samples, and finished magnets to support quality control, production, and R&D. 

· Follow established standard operating procedures (SOPs) and assist with experimental testing and procedural updates under technical guidance. 

· Operate assigned analytical equipment following training, including elemental analyzers (LECO/ELTRA), inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES), laser diffraction particle size analyzers, X-ray diffraction (XRD), powder rheometers, and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). 

· Prepare samples in ambient and glovebox environments, maintaining accuracy, traceability, and contamination control. 

· Prepare metallographic specimens through sectioning, mounting, grinding, and polishing following training. 

· Perform routine instrument checks, quality-control measurements, and basic maintenance; report equipment issues to experienced laboratory personnel. 

· Record and report results accurately and promptly; flag unexpected results or procedural deviations for review. 

· Maintain a clean, organized laboratory and safely handle chemicals, metal powders, and laboratory waste in accordance with established procedures. 

· Maintain laboratory records and support applicable quality-system requirements. 

· Coordinate assigned work with laboratory team members and participate in training across sample preparation and testing methods.

Responsibilities and tasks outlined are not exhaustive and may change as determined by the needs of the business

Requirements

· Must be a U.S. Person (U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or protected individual as defined under ITAR). 

· High school diploma/GED. 

· Hands-on laboratory experience through employment, technical training, or academic coursework. 

· Ability to follow written instructions, SOPs, and safety procedures accurately and consistently. 

· Strong attention to detail in sample handling, measurements, and recordkeeping. 

· Basic computer skills, including data entry and spreadsheets, and the ability to perform basic laboratory calculations. 

· Ability to communicate clearly, organize assigned tasks, and recognize when to seek assistance. 

· Ability to work safely with hazardous chemicals and materials following training. 

Must be a U.S. Person due to required access to U.S. export-controlled information or facilities

Qualifications 

· Associate degree or coursework in chemistry, materials science, laboratory technology, or a related field. 

· One to two years of experience in an analytical, materials testing, or manufacturing laboratory. 

· Exposure to one or more of the listed analytical techniques or metallographic sample preparation. 

· Experience handling metal powders or working with inert-atmosphere gloveboxes. 

· Familiarity with laboratory documentation, quality-control checks, or established quality-management systems.