Process Engineer – Finish Coating at USA Rare Earth

Job Summary:

We are seeking a Process Engineer – Coatings to lead the design, operation, and optimization of coating processes within our fast-growing manufacturing environment. This role oversees Ni-Cu-Ni plating, Zinc Chromate plating, and E-coating systems to ensure consistent quality, adhesion, and surface performance. You’ll manage process controls, equipment, and continuous improvement initiatives to drive efficiency, reliability, and product excellence across all coating operations.

Key Responsibilities

·       Own operation, design, and optimization of all coating and plating lines.

·       Monitor and control chemical baths, including composition, temperature, and replenishment.

·       Ensure part quality meets surface finish, adhesion, and corrosion resistance standards.

·       Collaborate with maintenance for preventive maintenance and troubleshooting.

·       Maintain SOPs, FMEAs, and process documentation.

·       Implement quality control and process monitoring systems.

·       Participate in equipment specification, procurement, and vendor support.

·       Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and chemical handling regulations.

·       Drive continuous improvement initiatives for coating efficiency, yield, and quality.

·       Train operators and junior engineers in coating processes, safety, and inspection techniques.

Qualifications

·       Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Chemical, or Materials Engineering (advanced degree preferred).

·       Experience with coating or plating processes such as Ni-Cu-Ni, Zinc Chromate, or E-coating.

·       Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including data analysis and SPC.

·       Knowledge of process documentation, quality standards, and safety regulations.

·       Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

·       Strong communication and organizational skills, with the ability to train and support operators.

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. 

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and distance vision. While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to walk, stand, move, sit, carry, bend, kneel, reach, push, pull, lift, use hands and fingers, handle, or feel and talk and hear. May be required to lift and move boxes or packages not exceeding 20 pounds in weight. Some work stress inherent to the position and extended work hours may be required. 

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.