Senior 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 Associate degree in chemistry, materials science, metallurgy, or a related field. 5+ experience in analytical chemistry, materials characterization, or industrial testing laboratory. Demonstrated hands-on proficiency with one or more relevant analytical instruments, including sample preparation, operation, and routine maintenance. …