Operator - R&D / Pilot Operations

Operator - R&D / Pilot Operations Location: Vulcan Elements R&D Facility - Research Triangle Park, NC 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 an Operator supporting Vulcan's R&D and pilot operations, you will work hands-on with engineers, technicians and technical leaders to safely execute manufacturing processes while helping develop and improve the processes that will support Vulcan's future production operations. This position is based at Vulcan's R&D facility in Research Triangle Park, NC and is intended to remain part of our R&D and pilot operations team. Unlike a traditional high-volume production role, this environment requires flexibility, curiosity and comfort working with processes and equipment that continue to evolve. Operators may support experimental production campaigns, equipment trials, process development, commissioning activities and continuous improvement work. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys hands-on manufacturing but also wants to understand how and why a process works. Responsibilities • Safely execute pilot-scale and R&D manufacturing processes in partnership with engineering and technical teams. • Prepare equipment and work areas prior to startup, including cleaning, inspection and execution of field checklists. • Execute controlled startup, steady-state operation, shutdown and cleaning procedures. • Monitor PLC/HMI systems and respond to alarms, deviations and abnormal operating conditions. • Collect in-process samples and ensure accurate handling, identification and documentation. • Perform metal tapping, material handling and other high-temperature process activities in accordance with established procedures. • Support experimental production runs and process-development campaigns. • Accurately document process conditions, observations, abnormalities and equipment performance to support engineering analysis. • Work closely with engineers and technicians to troubleshoot equipment and process issues. • Support equipment installation, commissioning, qualification and modification activities. • Assist with development and refinement of SOPs, work instructions, checklists and operating practices. • Adapt to changing processes, equipment configurations and priorities as development work progresses. • Provide practical operator feedback regarding equipment usability, safety, maintainability and process execution. • Maintain strong housekeeping and organized working conditions throughout the R&D and pilot environment. • Contribute to continuous equipment, process and facility improvements. Responsibilities and tasks outlined are not…