The successful candidate will provide both strategic and operational leadership across laboratory operations, analytical method development, advanced materials characterization, and laboratory infrastructure. This individual will lead a multidisciplinary team of managers, engineers, chemists, and technicians while ensuring the delivery of timely, accurate, and actionable data that enables innovation and manufacturing excellence. This is a hands-on technical leadership role requiring regular engagement in laboratory activities, data review, method development, root-cause investigations, and characterization of advanced magnetic materials, while simultaneously leading and developing a growing organization of scientists, engineers, and technicians.
The ideal candidate possesses deep expertise in materials characterization and analytical science, combined with demonstrated success leading laboratory organizations, developing technical talent, implementing world-class laboratory systems and methods, and supporting manufacturing and R&D environments. This is a rare opportunity to play a key role in returning an essential manufacturing capability to the USA.
Position Responsibilities
Lead the Characterization function within the Magnet Technology organization, including oversight and mentorship of the Analytical Laboratory and Methods Development teams
Provide technical leadership in analytical science, materials characterization, and problem-solving across the company
Remain actively engaged in laboratory activities, including reviewing data, troubleshooting analytical challenges, guiding method development, and participating in key technical investigations
Oversee development, validation, automation, and continuous improvement of analytical methods and characterization workflows
Lead troubleshooting and root-cause investigations involving materials, processes, products, and analytical methods, and partner closely with R&D, Manufacturing, Quality, and EHS teams to solve complex materials and process challenges
Establish laboratory operating procedures, analytical standards, data quality requirements, training programs, and best practices across all characterization activities in the R&D and Quality labs
Drive implementation of data management, laboratory automation, and digital tools that improve efficiency, quality, and decision-making
Establish performance metrics and ensure the delivery of timely, accurate, and actionable analytical results to internal stakeholders
Ensure the effective operation, reliability, and expansion of analytical and characterization capabilities, equipment, and laboratory infrastructure
Build and develop a high-performing technical organization through recruitment, coaching, mentoring, succession planning, and talent development
Foster a culture of safety, technical excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement across all characterization activities
Other duties as assigned
Basic Qualifications
M.S. or Ph.D. in Materials Science & Engineering, Metallurgy, Chemistry, Physics, or a related technical field
8+ years of experience in materials characterization, analytical laboratories, materials development, or related technical environments
5+ years of experience leading both laboratory operations and technical development organizations
Deep understanding of structure-property relationships in metals, powders, magnetic materials, and other inorganic materials systems
Demonstrated experience with a broad range of analytical and characterization techniques, including several of the following: SEM, EDS, EBSD, optical microscopy, metallography, XRD, XRF, ICP-OES, LECO, thermal analysis, mechanical testing, dimensional metrology, corrosion testing, and magnetometry
Experience developing, validating, and implementing analytical methods
Proficiency with statistical methods, measurement system analysis, and gage R&R studies
Experience managing technical projects, resources, budgets, and personnel
Strong data analysis, problem-solving, and root-cause investigation skills
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present technical information to both technical and executive audiences
Desired Qualities
Experience working with rare earth materials, magnetic materials, powder metallurgy, sintered magnets, or advanced manufacturing technologies
10+ years of industrial experience in materials characterization, analytical science, metallurgy, or related disciplines
Experience implementing laboratory automation, advanced analytics, machine learning, or digital laboratory systems
Experience supporting pilot-scale or commercial manufacturing operations
Familiarity with quality systems and laboratory accreditation principles
Demonstrated success building and scaling high-performing technical teams
Lifelong learner with a passion for innovation, technical excellence, and continuous improvement
MP Materials is Proud to be an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Underrepresented groups/Women/Disabled/Veterans are encouraged to apply. Candidates whose disabilities make them unable to meet the position’s requirements will still be considered qualified if they can perform the essential functions of the job with reasonable accommodation.
Your Right to Work – In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment verification document form upon hire.
For Assistance with Application - Alternative methods of applying for employment are available to individuals unable to submit an application through this site because of a disability. Contact Human Resources Department at 702-844-6111; dial 7 when prompted for HR; 1700 South Pavilion Center Dr. 8th Floor, Las Vegas, NV 89135 to discuss reasonable accommodation.
