Chemist, Methods Development

Mp Materials Corp.; Mountain Pass (CA); On-site; USD 83,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

MP Materials is seeking a Method Development Chemist for the Mountain Pass, CA Analytical Lab. You will develop and maintain SOPs, generate QC samples, and ensure accuracy across non-routine samples. You will train staff in new procedures, troubleshoot instruments, and collaborate with operations on special projects.

The position emphasizes safety, quality control, and compliance with policies while delivering precise analytical results to meet customer and regulatory expectations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Science required, Chemistry preferred.
• Experience with analytical instruments (ICP-AES, ICP-MS, XRD, XRF, SEM).
• Ability to train staff and maintain SOPs.

Responsibilities

• Develop method for qualitative Rietveld XRD analysis.
• Develop method for SEM.
• Review analytical results and QC data; report discrepancies.
• Maintain and troubleshoot lab instrumentation.
• Train staff in new procedures.
• Ensure compliance with safety and SOPs.

Skills

Analytical techniques

Training staff

Data review

Safety compliance

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Science

Chemistry preferred

Tools

ICP-AES

ICP-MS

XRD

XRF

SEM

Job description

Analytical QA/QC Lab Mountain Pass, CA, US

2 days ago Requisition ID: 2404

Salary Range: $82,915.30 To $100,000.00 Annually

Salary Range: $82,915.30 to $100,000.00

Company Overview

MP Materials (NYSE: MP) is rebuilding American industrial capability for a new era of autonomy, robotics, and electrification.

We are the only U.S. company with a fully integrated rare earth supply chain—from mining and refining to advanced metal and magnet manufacturing. Our products include both the critical materials used to make permanent magnets and the finished magnets themselves—enabling next-generation technologies in robotics, automation, aerospace, transportation, defense, and energy systems. These materials are the foundation of physical AI—the convergence of computation, movement, and control.

We hire ambitious, mission-driven people who want to tackle complex challenges and shape the future of strategic industries. Our culture is rooted in teamwork, resiliency, and integrity, with a deep commitment to operational excellence and national purpose. MP is rapidly evolving from a materials producer into a leading U.S. manufacturer—and our people are driving that transformation.

Position Overview

The Method Development Chemist is responsible for developing and maintaining methods and procedures (SOP’s) for all laboratory equipment in the Analytical Lab. Working with all areas of the operation on special samples and projects. Develop methods to ensure the accuracy of results on a wide variety of non-routine samples. Generate new Quality Control Samples and verify the accuracy before implementing. Be proficient at maintaining and troubleshooting all Laboratory equipment. Training staff in new procedures and methods. This position complies with all policies and procedures to ensure consistent conformance to all customer expectations and ensures that all analytical results are accurate.

Position Responsibilities

• Develop method for qualitative Rietveld XRD analysis.
• Develop method for SEM.
• Ensure methods are appropriate for non-routing samples.
• Review analytical results and QC data for quality, research any discrepancies, and report any anomalous results to the Analytical Laboratory Supervisor.
• Maintain and troubleshoot laboratory instrumentation.
• Perform lab housekeeping and routine inspections.
• Actively participate in the safety management programs and adhere to all appropriate laboratory safety and operating procedures. Also comply with all health, environmental, and safety. regulations, company policies, processes, and procedures.
• Flexible shifts and hours may be required based on operational needs.
• Completes any other tasks as needed or directed by management.

Basic Qualifications

• High familiarity with analytical techniques and instrumentation used in the Analytical Lab (ICP-AES, ICP-MS, XRD, XRF, SEM).
• Familiarity with computers, instrument software, and database software.
• Bachelor’s degree in a Science required, Chemistry preferred.
• Valid Driver’s License and good driving record required to drive company vehicles on property.

MP Materials is Proud to be an Equal Opportunity / ... 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.

Safety Provision

Employees are responsible for following all company, industry and regulatory procedures and laws to ensure a safe work environment for themselves and the company. Employees must have a willingness to promote safety among the workforce, participate in Process Hazard Analysis procedures and Pre-Startup Safety Reviews.

Working Conditions

Our facility sits at an elevation of 4,700 feet. Employees may be subject to extreme weather conditions when working in an outdoor setting (heat and cold, wind). Work is at an open pit mine or manufacturing/chemical plant setting, which may include exposure to moving mechanical parts, toxic chemicals, risk of electrical shock, explosives, fumes, or airborne particles.

Physical Demands

Manual dexterity; sense of touch; sense of smell; speaking clearly; hearing-speech range; hearing – all ranges; seeing, reading and comprehensions; seeing – distant/near; depth perception; color vision. While performing the job responsibilities, the employee is required to talk and hear. The employee is often required to stand and use their hands and fingers, to handle or feel and to manipulate laboratory equipment. The employee is occasionally required to walk, reach with arms and hands, climb or balance, and to stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. Vision abilities required by this job include close vision. Employees must pass a full-face respiratory fit test. Employees must be able to lift 50 lbs. Must be able to work in PPE level C. These requirements are representative, but not all-inclusive, of the knowledge, skill, and ability required of the employee.