Lead Technician, Rare Earth Lab & Pilot Plant

USA Rare Earth; Wheat Ridge (CO); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

USA Rare Earth seeks a Lead Technician to support the development, testing, and operation of technologies for rare earth recovery and purification. You will assist in laboratory and pilot plant activities, set up equipment, prepare samples, collect data, and help troubleshoot processes with engineers.

The ideal candidate has hands-on lab experience, strong attention to detail, and a commitment to safety and quality in chemical processing operations.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree or higher in Chemistry, Biology, Engineering Technology, or related field; equivalent experience considered.
• 2–3 years of hands‑on experience in laboratory, pilot plant, or industrial process operations.
• Familiarity with pumps, filters, tanks, valves, and other common chemical processing equipment.
• Experience with sampling techniques, analytical testing, and data logging systems.
• Working knowledge of safety protocols, PPE, and hazardous material handling.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a cross‑functional, fast‑paced environment.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and documentation accuracy.
• Willingness to work flexible hours during pilot trials or commissioning activities.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the setup, operation, and maintenance of laboratory- and pilot-scale equipment for extraction and purification processes.
• Conduct sampling, measurements, and data collection during experiments and process runs.
• Prepare feedstocks, reagents, and materials for testing and production trials.
• Maintain accurate experimental and operational records in laboratory notebooks and digital databases.
• Monitor process parameters and report deviations or issues to engineers.
• Perform routine maintenance, cleaning, and calibration of process equipment and instrumentation.
• Support safe chemical handling, waste management, and housekeeping in laboratory and pilot plant areas.
• Collaborate with engineers on troubleshooting process upsets and implementing process improvements.
• Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and contribute to their continuous improvement.

Skills

Chemistry lab experience

Data logging

Independent work

Attention to detail

Education

Associate degree+

Tools

Pumps

Valves

Filters

Data logging systems

Job description

USA Rare Earth seeks a Lead Technician to support the development, testing, and operation of technologies for rare earth recovery and purification. You will assist in laboratory and pilot plant activities, set up equipment, prepare samples, collect data, and help troubleshoot processes with engineers.

The ideal candidate has hands-on lab experience, strong attention to detail, and a commitment to safety and quality in chemical processing operations.