Pilot Plant Operator

Who we are:

We are on a mission to become a leading supplier of critical materials that enable the green energy and technology revolution.  Our materials and technologies are required for the electric vehicle, green energy, consumer electronics, and defense industries, and our battery grade lithium and tech metals are needed for chipsets, semiconductors, and 5G. 


We have a substantial interest in the Round Top, Heavy Rare Earth, Lithium and Critical Minerals deposit in West Texas. We have also developed the United States’ first rare earth and critical minerals processing facility and we own the only scalable, sintered neo-magnet manufacturing system in the Western Hemisphere. By developing this fully integrated, US-based “mine-to-magnet” critical mineral supply chain, we are poised to become the leading domestic supplier to these industries.


What you can expect:

At USA Rare Earth, we are pioneers and problem solvers, technologists and team players. Together, we:


Build Solutions: If our task was a simple one, it would already be done. We are creative and solution-oriented, and we think outside the box to solve important problems. We know that a range of expertise and technologies is needed for success, and we work across sectors and alongside customers to deliver world-class solutions in sustainable ways.


Deliver Quality: When we do things, we do them well. We believe that top-tier quality leads to industry competitiveness and we hold ourselves to the highest quality standards. We move fast when executing, but safety, quality, and excellence always come first.


Lead responsibly: We have a responsibility to the planet, our consumers, our country, and each other. We put safety at the center of all we do, take accountability for our actions, incorporate sustainable practices in our processes and act with the financial best interest of our investors and consumers in mind.


Win Together: Establishing a rare earth magnet supply chain is a big undertaking – and getting there is a team effort. We communicate openly, work together and challenge each other in pursuit of our goals. With every step we take we learn and get better.


Position Overview:

 

The Pilot Plant Machine Operator will provide routine technical support for research and development (R&D) operations and the Pilot Plant by assembling, configuring, operating and maintaining machinery for Rare Earth Magnet Production. The role involves operating specialized equipment, performing analytical tests, and ensuring adherence to safety and operational protocols. Additionally, the Pilot Plant Machine Operator is responsible for maintaining equipment, documenting procedures, and generating Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) requirements.

 

Key Responsibilities:

  • Operates specialized Magnet Manufacturing equipment and performs assigned quality tests.
  • Provides routine technical support for Pilot Plant operations, ensuring efficient and accurate execution of tasks.
  • Assembles, configures, and maintains Pilot Plant machinery to facilitate various tests, experiments and production.
  • Conducts routine cleaning and maintenance of equipment and machinery to ensure optimal performance.
  • Develops SOPs, records test results, and maintains detailed documentation as required.
  • Ensures compliance with all safety and operational procedures and policies.
  • Performs equipment and machinery set up and operation in accordance with Pilot Plant requirements.

 

Qualifications:

  • Strong mechanical aptitude with hands-on experience in machine operations.
  • Experience in equipment maintenance and troubleshooting.
  • Familiarity with safety protocols and operational best practices in a laboratory setting.
  • Attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records. 
  • Prior experience in a manufacturing environment.
  • Technical training or certification related to machinery operation and maintenance.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently.
  • Ability to generate and maintain SOP documentation.
  • Education: High School Diploma, Associates Degree or equivalent  
  • 5-10 years’ experience in machine operation, maintenance, or directly related experience  
  • Willingness to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends, and last-minute downed equipment needs. 

 

Physical Demands 

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

Work Environment: Highlighted 

The work environment will be a mix of a lab environment, a manufacturing floor and a construction site.   Noise level: Normal office, manufacturing and construction noises

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, skills required of personnel so classified. The reporting relationship may not reflect the most recent changes to the corporate reporting structure.

USA Rare Earth proudly supports Equal Employment Opportunities

USA Rare Earth's policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and will provide reasonable accommodations according to applicable federal, state, and/or local laws.

For assistance applying for employment through this site due to disability, please contact Human Resources, hr@usare.com, to discuss reasonable accommodations.

Magnets

Stillwater, OK

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