Senior Laboratory Technician

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 a Senior Analytical Laboratory Technician, you will perform analytical testing and materials characterization in support of rare-earth permanent magnet R&D and production. Working with the Laboratory Manager and Testing & Characterization Engineers, you will prepare samples, operate and maintain analytical instruments, evaluate data quality, and troubleshoot testing issues. This hands-on role requires an experienced technician capable of independently executing established methods while supporting laboratory improvements and new method development.

Responsibilities

• Perform 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 support method development, validation, and procedural updates under the guidance of Testing & Characterization Engineers.
• Operate and maintain assigned analytical equipment, 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.
• Perform calibrations, quality-control checks, routine maintenance, and instrument troubleshooting; escalate unresolved issues appropriately.
• Record, review, and report results accurately and promptly; identify unexpected results and investigate potential testing errors.
• Maintain a clean, organized laboratory and safely handle chemicals, metal powders, and laboratory waste in accordance with established procedures.
• Support laboratory quality systems, documentation, investigations, and applicable accreditation requirements.
• Coordinate testing priorities with laboratory, engineering, quality, and production teams; train and mentor technicians within areas of proficiency.

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

Qualifications 

• Associate degree in chemistry, materials science, metallurgy, or a related field.
• 5+ experience in analytical chemistry, materials characterization, or industrial testing laboratory.
• Demonstrated hands-on proficiency with one or more relevant analytical instruments, including sample preparation, operation, and routine maintenance.
• Ability to independently follow SOPs and instrumentation manuals, troubleshoot testing issues, and recommend improvements within assigned instrumentation scope.
• Working knowledge of calibration verification, analytical quality controls, sample traceability, and accurate laboratory documentation.
• Experience safely handling hazardous chemicals and materials under established laboratory procedures.
• Proficiency with instrument software and spreadsheets, with strong attention to detail, communication, and prioritization skills.

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

Preferred Qualifications 

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, materials science, metallurgy, or a related field
• Direct experience with ICP-OES and/or LECO/ELTRA elemental analyzers; experience with additional listed techniques is beneficial.
• Experience with metallographic preparation, metal powders, or inert-atmosphere gloveboxes.
• Experience supporting both R&D and production in a metals or advanced materials laboratory.
• Experience within an accredited laboratory or established quality-management system.
• Experience supporting method validation, SOP development, root-cause investigations, or technician training.

Laboratory Safety and PPE Requirements

This position requires strict adherence to laboratory safety protocols and regulatory guidelines. Employees must consistently wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including lab coats, safety glasses, gloves, and any additional gear required for specific procedures or chemical handling. The role involves working with potentially hazardous materials, equipment, and processes, and team members must follow all established safety rules, maintain a clean and compliant work area, and promptly report any unsafe conditions. The individual must be able to complete required training, apply proper safety practices, and demonstrate a strong commitment to maintaining a safe laboratory environment.