Machine Operator - Night Shift

Cyclic Materials Inc.; Mesa (AZ); On-site; USD 38,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health and Dental coverage

401(k) contributions

Generous paid time off program

Diversity and inclusion commitment

Job summary

Cyclic Materials Inc. in Mesa, Arizona is seeking a Machine Operator for their night shift at the Spoke NA1 metals recycling plant. Your responsibilities will include safely operating machinery, maintaining equipment, inspecting processed metals, and adhering to safety protocols.

The ideal candidate will have experience in industrial settings, strong problem-solving skills, and the ability to work in a physically demanding environment. Cyclic Materials offers valuable benefits, including health and dental coverage.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Machine operation or metal recycling experience required.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and equipment maintenance.

Responsibilities

• Operate various machines and equipment used in the metal recycling process.
• Monitor machinery to ensure optimal performance.
• Inspect processed metals for quality and consistency.
• Follow all safety procedures and guidelines.

Skills

Attention to detail

Problem-solving skills

Strong communication skills

Mechanical aptitude

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Technical training

Tools

Forklift operation

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 progressed from technology development to commercialization, operating facilities in Ontario and Arizona, with a new expansion underway in South Carolina. With US$75 million in Series C financing led by T. Rowe Price, and 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.

This role is strictly night shift.

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, including 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

• Operate various machines and equipment used in the metal recycling process, including shredders, crushers, balers, and sorters.
• Monitor machinery to ensure optimal performance and efficient recycling of metals.
• Identify mechanical issues and report them to maintenance personnel or troubleshoot minor issues independently.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

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.

Benefits

• Health and Dental coverage.
• RRSP (Canada) / 401(k) (USA) contributions.
• Generous paid time off program that lets you recharge.
• Diversity and inclusion commitment—our workplace respects and recognizes all 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 Canada and the USA must have work authorization that does not require future sponsorship of a visa for employment authorization in the United States or Canada.

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.