Lead Technician: Rare Earth Pilot & Lab Operations

USA Rare Earth, Inc. (Nasdaq: USAR); Wheat Ridge (CO); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

USA Rare Earth, Inc. seeks a Lead Technician to support the development, testing, and operation of innovative technologies for rare earth recovery and purification.

You will assist in laboratory and pilot plant activities, including equipment setup, sample preparation, testing, data collection, and process troubleshooting. The ideal candidate will have strong practical skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety and quality in chemical process operations, with flexibility for

Qualifications

• Associate's degree or higher in Chemistry, Biology, Engineering Tech or related field.
• 2-3 years in lab, pilot plant, or industrial operations.
• Familiar with chemical processing equipment (pumps, valves, tanks).
• Experience with sampling, analytical testing, and data logging.
• Ability to work independently and in cross-functional teams; flexible hours.

Responsibilities

• Set up, operate, and maintain lab- and pilot-scale equipment for extraction and purification.
• Collect samples, perform measurements, and record data during runs.
• Prepare feedstocks, reagents, and materials for testing and trials.
• Maintain records in notebooks and databases.
• Monitor process parameters and report deviations to engineers.
• Perform routine maintenance and calibration of equipment.
• Support safe handling, waste management, and housekeeping.
• Collaborate with engineers on troubleshooting and improvements.
• Follow SOPs and help improve them.

Skills

Attention to detail

Safety awareness

Team collaboration

Independent work

Education

Associate’s degree or higher in Chemistry/Engineering

Tools

Pumps

Filters

Valves

Tanks

Job description

USA Rare Earth, Inc. seeks a Lead Technician to support the development, testing, and operation of innovative technologies for rare earth recovery and purification.

You will assist in laboratory and pilot plant activities, including equipment setup, sample preparation, testing, data collection, and process troubleshooting. The ideal candidate will have strong practical skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety and quality in chemical process operations, with flexibility for