Senior Laboratory Technician

<p><span data-contrast="auto">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.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p> <p><span data-contrast="auto">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.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p> <p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Responsibilities</span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p> <ul> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Perform analytical testing on raw materials, metal powders, in-process samples, and finished magnets to support quality control, production, and R&D.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Follow established standard operating procedures (SOPs) and support method development, validation, and procedural updates under the guidance of Testing & Characterization Engineers.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">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).</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Prepare samples in ambient and glovebox environments, maintaining accuracy, traceability, and contamination control.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Prepare metallographic specimens through sectioning, mounting, grinding, and polishing.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Perform calibrations, quality-control checks, routine maintenance, and instrument troubleshooting; escalate unresolved issues appropriately.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Record, review, and report results accurately and promptly; identify unexpected results and investigate potential testing errors.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Maintain a clean, organized laboratory and safely handle chemicals, metal powders, and laboratory waste in accordance with established procedures.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Support laboratory quality systems, documentation, investigations, and applicable accreditation requirements.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Coordinate testing priorities with laboratory, engineering, quality, and production teams; train and mentor technicians within areas of proficiency.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> </ul> <p><em><span data-contrast="none">Responsibilities and tasks outlined are not exhaustive and may change as determined by the needs of the business.</span></em><span data-contrast="none"> </span> <span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p> <p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Qualifications </span></strong></p> <ul> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Associate degree in chemistry, materials science, metallurgy, or a related field.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">5+ experience in analytical chemistry, materials characterization, or industrial testing laboratory.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Demonstrated hands-on proficiency with one or more relevant analytical instruments, including sample preparation, operation, and routine maintenance.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Ability to independently follow SOPs and instrumentation manuals, troubleshoot testing issues, and recommend improvements within assigned instrumentation scope.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Working knowledge of calibration verification, analytical quality controls, sample traceability, and accurate laboratory documentation.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto">Experience safely handling hazardous chemicals and materials under established laboratory procedures.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></li> <li><span data-contrast="auto"&gt