Senior Materials Analysis Engineer – Testing & Characterization

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 Transparency.

As a Senior Materials Analysis Engineer – Testing & Characterization you will serve as a subject matter expert for laboratory test methods supporting NdFeB permanent magnet manufacturing. This individual will ensure the suitability, accuracy, and continuous improvement of analytical and mechanical test procedures, support data interpretation for internal customers, and maintain rigorous material traceability and documentation practices. This is a hands-on role requiring strong materials testing fundamentals, attention to procedural detail, and the ability to operate effectively in a controlled manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the subject matter expert (SME) for several laboratory test methods, ensuring technical rigor and reliable execution.
• Evaluate and ensure suitability and accuracy of test methods for their intended applications, including periodic review and revalidation.
• Assist with data interpretation and provide technical guidance to internal customers across process, quality, and engineering teams.
• Develop, implement, and improve test procedures to meet evolving production and quality requirements.
• Work in a controlled environment and ensure material traceability, sample chain of custody, and documentation consistent with quality system requirements.
• Troubleshoot instrument performance issues and coordinate preventive maintenance, calibration, and service activities.
• Collaborate with materials, process, and data engineers to integrate testing data into broader manufacturing and quality workflows.

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

Qualifications

• B.S. or higher and 5+ years experience in Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Hands-on experience with materials testing and characterization, preferably in a commercial or industrial environment.
• Familiarity with test method development, validation, and documentation practices.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple concurrent testing activities, and take ownership of instrument health and method quality.

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

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with one or more of the following techniques: X-ray diffraction (XRD), particle size analysis, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), or differential scanning calorimetry (DSC).
• Broad exposure to complementary characterization methods such as SEM/EDS, optical microscopy, or mechanical testing (tensile, hardness, density).
• Experience working within a quality management system such as ISO 17025, AS9100, or similar.
• Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) or structured data workflows.
• Experience with statistical methods for method validation, measurement uncertainty, or process control.
• Comfort operating in environments where throughput, repeatability, and data integrity are priorities.

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.