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