Machine Operator

Cyclic Materials; Mesa (AZ); On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health and Dental coverage

Generous paid time off program

RRSP contributions

Job summary

Cyclic Materials in Mesa, Arizona is seeking a Machine Operator for its metals recycling plant. You will safely operate and maintain machinery, including shredders and crushers, ensuring efficient processing of metals while adhering to safety protocols.

The ideal candidate has experience in manufacturing or metal recycling, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work in a team-oriented environment. A competitive compensation package and supportive culture await you.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Machine operation or metal recycling experience required.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and equipment maintenance.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, physically demanding environment.

Responsibilities

• Operate various machines and equipment used in the metal recycling process.
• Inspect processed metals for quality and consistency.
• Follow all safety procedures and guidelines, including wearing appropriate PPE.
• Maintain accurate records of machine performance and maintenance schedules.

Skills

Machine operation

Problem-solving skills

Mechanical aptitude

Strong communication skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Forklift

Job description

Cyclic Materials™ is building a resilient circular supply chain for rare earth elements and other critical materials. Through our proprietary MagCycle℠ and REEPure℠ processes, we recover rare earths from end-of-life products and transform them into high purity materials used in the production of permanent magnets. These materials are critical to the modern economy, including the production of electric vehicles, electronics, AI infrastructure, wind turbines, defense, and advanced manufacturing technologies.

Founded in 2021, Cyclic Materials has rapidly progressed from technology development to commercialization. We currently operate facilities in Ontario and Arizona, with a new expansion underway in South Carolina. Backed by US$75 million in Series C financing led by T. Rowe Price, alongside strategic investors including Microsoft, Amazon, Hitachi Ventures, BMW i Ventures, Jaguar Land Rover’s InMotion fund, Energy Impact Partners, ArcTern Ventures, and Fifth Wall, we are scaling to meet growing global demand for a secure and sustainable rare earth supply.

We have established commercial partnerships with global industry leaders such as Solvay, Vattenfall, Lime, and VACUUMSCHMELZE, enabling the deployment of recycled rare earth materials into real world supply chains. In 2025, Cyclic Materials was named one of the Top 10 Climate Tech Companies to Watch by MIT Technology Review.

We are growing quickly and building the industrial backbone required for a circular rare earth economy. Joining Cyclic Materials means working on complex and exciting challenges at scale, alongside a team committed to executing and delivering measurable impact. If you are motivated by building critical infrastructure and advancing the circular economy, join us and help accelerate the growth of rare earth recycling.

The Machine Operator in our Spoke NA1 metals recycling plant located in Mesa, Arizona will be responsible for safely operating and maintaining machinery used in the recycling process. This includes equipment for sorting, shredding, crushing, and processing metals. The role requires attention to detail, adherence to safety protocols, and the ability to troubleshoot and resolve issues with machinery.

Key Responsibilities

Machine Operation

• Operate various machines and equipment used in the metal recycling process, including shredders, crushers, balers, and sorters.
• Monitor the machinery to ensure optimal performance and efficient recycling of metals.

Maintenance and Cleaning

• Identify mechanical issues and report them to maintenance personnel or troubleshoot minor issues independently.

Quality Control

• Inspect processed metals for quality and consistency, ensuring that the end product meets the required specifications.
• Ensure all recycling processes comply with industry standards and regulations.

Safety Compliance

• Follow all safety procedures and guidelines, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Conduct safety checks and monitor equipment for potential hazards.
• Report safety violations or concerns promptly.

Material Handling

• Load and unload metal materials into machines for processing.
• Assist in sorting metals according to type, grade, and size, ensuring proper processing techniques are used.

Record Keeping

• Maintain accurate records of machine performance, maintenance schedules, and production output.
• Document any operational issues or material discrepancies.

Team Collaboration

• Work closely with other operators, maintenance teams, and supervisors to ensure smooth plant operations.
• Communicate effectively to resolve any production delays or issues.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment
• Machine operation or metal recycling experience required
• High school diploma or equivalent (technical training is a plus).
• Knowledge of safety regulations and equipment maintenance.
• Strong problem-solving skills and mechanical aptitude.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, physically demanding environment.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work well in a team.
• Willingness and ability to become forklift operator certified.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for long periods and lift heavy objects (up to 50 lbs).
• Comfort with working in a noisy, dusty environment with potential exposure to hazardous materials.

Working Conditions

• This position will be expected to work in a plant environment with exposure to loud noise, dust, and varying temperatures.
• The job may involve shift work, weekend shifts, or on-call availability depending on operational needs.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) including gloves, safety glasses, and steel-toed boots is mandatory.

Why You Will Love Cyclic Materials

• At Cyclic Materials, we’re dedicated to supporting our workforce on their unique career journey
• We offer a competitive compensation package including Health and Dental coverage, RRSP contributions and a generous paid time off program that lets you recharge
• We value diversity and are committed to maintaining a workplace where everyone is respected and recognized for their contributions

The base compensation offered is determined based on the successful candidate’s relevant experience, skills, and competencies and considers internal equity.

As an Equal Opportunity employer, Cyclic Materials is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where all individuals have an opportunity to succeed. If you require accommodation at any stage of the interview process, please email [e-mail]. Applicants for employment in the Canada and US must have work authorization that does not now or in the future require sponsorship of a visa for employment authorization in the United States or Canada and with Cyclic Materials (i.e., H1-B visa, F-1 visa (OPT), TN, L1-A visa or any other non-immigrant status).

To all applicants, your interest and effort are sincerely appreciated. While we thank everyone for their application, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.