R&D 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 Transparency. As an R D Technician you will be responsible for a variety of tasks related to the support of a pilot scale research and development facility. You will interface with engineering, material science, and operations teams to problem solve in a fast paced industrial environment. You will work closely with a team of technicians to troubleshoot, modify, repair, install, and build industrial processing equipment in support of the company’s goals. You will maintain a safe and organized working environment while striving for efficiency and effectiveness in your tasks. Responsibilities • Troubleshoot and correct pilot scale and lab scale industrial processing equipment • Collaborate with engineers, scientists and other technicians to provide actionable solutions to complex challenges • Design and install custom modifications to processing equipment to increase performance and efficiency • Assist in the upkeep of facilities and equipment where required Responsibilities and tasks outlined are not exhaustive and may change as determined by the needs of the business Qualifications • Minimum 3 years of experience working in a technical oriented position • Minimum 3 years of experience working with CAD • Read and understand technical prints and schematics • Minimum 3 years of experience troubleshooting industrial equipment • Power and hand tool experience • High School Diploma or equivalent Must be a U.S. Person due to required access to U.S. export-controlled information or facilities Preferred Qualifications • Additive manufacturing experience • Welding/Fabrication experience • Experience working on and with basic electrical power and control systems • Spare parts inventory management • SOP generation • CMMS utilization and maintenance • Basic rigging experience • Experience with PLC programming and troubleshooting Physical and Environmental Requirements The position requires regular presence on the production floor and the ability to navigate all areas of the facility. Candidates must be able to climb stairs, stand and walk for extended periods, and work in environments that may be hot, humid, or noisy. The role also requires the use of personal protective equipment, including respirators, and adherence to all applicable safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements. Employees must be able to complete required fit testing, wear appropriate PPE for the duration of assigned tasks, and respond safely to changing conditions within the production environment.