Machine Operator

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health and Dental coverage

401K contributions

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Cyclic Materials Inc. is seeking a Machine Operator for their metal recycling plant in Mesa, Arizona. The role involves safely operating equipment such as shredders and crushers, performing maintenance, and ensuring quality control of recycled materials.

The ideal candidate will have strong attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols. Benefits include health coverage and a supportive work environment.

Qualifications

• Ability to follow safety procedures and use personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Physical capacity to lift materials and work in varying weather conditions.
• Experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate various machines in the metal recycling process.
• Perform routine maintenance on machinery.
• Inspect processed metals for quality compliance.
• Monitor safety and equipment performance.

Skills

Attention to detail

Troubleshooting skills

Safe operation techniques

Tools

Sorting equipment

Shredders

Crushers

Balers

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 such as 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.

Position Overview

The Machine Operator in a metal recycling plant is 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.

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:
  • Perform routine maintenance tasks, such as lubricating machinery, replacing worn‑out parts, and cleaning equipment to ensure safe and efficient operation.
  • 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.
• 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.
• Work closely with other operators, maintenance teams, and supervisors to ensure smooth plant operations.
• Communicate effectively to resolve any production delays or issues.

Additional Key Responsibilities

• Operate safety equipment and consistently follow safe work habits and company safety procedures.
• Assist machine operators as required.
• Inspect incoming and processed materials and sort items into designated piles, bins, containers, or barrels according to type, size, condition, color, markings, or other characteristics.
• Load and unload materials from machines, conveyors, and other processing equipment.
• Clean, inspect, and lubricate equipment to ensure safe and efficient operation.
• Sweep, shovel, and remove residual waste and debris generated during processing activities.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned by supervisors or management.

Enhanced Physical Requirements

• Must regularly stand for extended periods and use hands to handle, feel, and manipulate materials and equipment.
• Frequently required to reach with hands and arms, climb, balance, and communicate effectively.
• Occasionally required to walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl.
• Must regularly lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, and occasionally lift heavier materials with appropriate assistance or equipment.
• Requires close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
• Must be able to work outdoors and in varying weather conditions, including extreme heat, cold, snow, and other environmental conditions.
• Ability to work safely in a loud industrial environment.

Pre‑Employment Requirements

• Must successfully pass a background check, physical examination, and drug screening as a condition of employment.

Working Conditions

• 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

• We are dedicated to supporting our workforce on their unique career journey.
• We offer a competitive compensation package including Health and Dental coverage, RRSP (Canada)/401K (USA) 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.

Equal Opportunity Employer

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 the 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).

Thank you for your interest in this position. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.