Lab Operator at USA Rare Earth

Job Summary:

The Lab Machine Operator provides routine technical support for research and development (R&D) operations by assembling, configuring, and maintaining machinery for experimental and testing purposes. The role involves operating specialized equipment, performing analytical tests, and ensuring adherence to safety and operational protocols. Additionally, the Lab Machine Operator is responsible for maintaining equipment, documenting procedures, and generating Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) requirements. 

Key Responsibilities

• Provides routine technical support for R&D operations, ensuring efficient and accurate execution of experimental tasks.

• Assembles, configures, and maintains laboratory machinery to facilitate various tests and experiments. 

• Conducts routine cleaning and maintenance of equipment and machinery to ensure optimal performance. 

• Operates specialized laboratory equipment and performs assigned analytical tests. 

• 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 setup and operation in accordance with R&D requirements. 

Qualifications 

• Experience in equipment maintenance and troubleshooting. 

• Ability to generate and maintain SOP documentation. 

• Strong mechanical aptitude with hands-on experience in machine operations. 

• Familiarity with safety protocols and operational best practices in a laboratory setting. 

• Attention to detail and ability to maintain accurate records.  

• Prior experience in an R&D or laboratory environment. 

• Technical training or certification related to machinery operation and maintenance. 

• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently. 

• 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:
The work environment will be a mix of a typical office environment, laboratory space, manufacturing floor and construction site.   

Noise level: 

Exposure will vary and include normal office noise, typical laboratory sounds (e.g., ventilation systems, equipment operation), manufacturing floor noise (e.g., machinery, forklifts), and construction site noise depending on project phase and location.

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, [email protected], to discuss reasonable accommodations.