Head of Materials Characterization & Lab Strategy

MP Materials; Fort Worth (TX); Hybrid; USD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

MP Materials in Fort Worth, TX, seeks an experienced Manager, Characterization to lead materials characterization efforts within Magnet Technology. This role oversees analytical labs, method development, and data-driven manufacturing support for advanced rare earth magnet technologies.

The successful candidate will guide a multidisciplinary team, drive lab automation, ensure data quality, and partner with R&D, Manufacturing, Quality, and EHS to solve complex challenges.

Qualifications

• MS/PhD in a materials-related field with strong emphasis on characterization.
• Experience leading laboratory operations and technical development teams.
• Proven ability to develop and validate analytical methods and workflows.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Characterization function within Magnet Technology and mentor labs.
• Provide technical leadership in analytical science and material characterization.
• Remain engaged in lab activities: data review, method development, investigations.
• Oversee development, validation, and automation of methods and workflows.
• Lead root-cause investigations with cross-functional partners (R&D, Manufacturing, Quality, EHS).
• Establish SOPs, standards, data quality, training, and best practices across labs.
• Drive data management, automation, and digital tools for efficiency and decision-making.
• Set performance metrics and ensure timely, actionable analytical results.
• Ensure operation, reliability, and expansion of capabilities and equipment.
• Build a high-performing technical organization through recruiting and mentoring.

Skills

Materials characterization

Analytical leadership

Data analysis

Root-cause investigations

Laboratory operations

Scientific communication

Education

MS/PhD in Materials Science & Engineering, Metallurgy, Chemistry, Physics, or related field

Tools

SEM/EDS

XRD

XRF

ICP-OES

EBSD

Metallography

Job description

MP Materials in Fort Worth, TX, seeks an experienced Manager, Characterization to lead materials characterization efforts within Magnet Technology. This role oversees analytical labs, method development, and data-driven manufacturing support for advanced rare earth magnet technologies.

The successful candidate will guide a multidisciplinary team, drive lab automation, ensure data quality, and partner with R&D, Manufacturing, Quality, and EHS to solve complex challenges.