Manager, Materials Characterization & Lab Excellence

Socket.dev; Las Vegas (NV); On-site; USD 180,000 - 280,000; Full time

Job summary

MP Materials in Las Vegas, NV seeks an experienced Manager, Characterization to lead materials characterization for the Magnet Technology organization. This hands-on leadership role oversees analytical science, method development, and lab operations while guiding a growing team of scientists, engineers, and technicians.

The ideal candidate will establish characterization strategies supporting R&D, process development, and manufacturing scale-up, delivering accurate data to enable innovation and

Qualifications

• MS or PhD in Materials Science & Engineering, Metallurgy, Chemistry, Physics, or a related technical field.
• 8+ years of experience in materials characterization, analytical laboratories, materials development, or related technical environments.
• 5+ years of experience leading both laboratory operations and technical development organizations.
• Deep understanding of structure-property relationships in metals, powders, magnetic materials, and other inorganic materials systems.
• Demonstrated experience with a broad range of analytical and characterization techniques (SEM, EDS, EBSD, XRD, XRF, ICP-OES).
• Experience developing, validating, and implementing analytical methods.
• Proficiency with statistical methods, measurement system analysis, and gage R&R studies.
• Strong data analysis, problem-solving, and root-cause investigation skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present technical information to both technical and executive audiences.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Characterization function within the Magnet Technology organization, overseeing Analytical Laboratory and Methods Development teams.
• Provide technical leadership in analytical science, materials characterization, and problem-solving across the company.
• Remain actively engaged in lab activities, including data review, troubleshooting, and method development.
• Oversee development, validation, automation, and continuous improvement of analytical methods and workflows.
• Lead root-cause investigations involving materials, processes, products, and analytical methods with cross-functional partners.
• Establish laboratory operating procedures, standards, data quality requirements, and training programs.
• Drive data management, laboratory automation, and digital tools to improve efficiency and decision-making.
• Define performance metrics and deliver timely, accurate analytical results to stakeholders.
• Ensure operation and expansion of analytical capabilities, equipment, and infrastructure.
• Build and develop a high-performing technical organization through recruitment and mentorship.

Skills

Data analysis

Problem solving

Root cause investigations

Communication skills

Education

MS/PhD in Materials Science & Engineering or related field

Tools

SEM

EDS

EBSD

XRD

XRF

ICP-OES

Job description

MP Materials in Las Vegas, NV seeks an experienced Manager, Characterization to lead materials characterization for the Magnet Technology organization. This hands-on leadership role oversees analytical science, method development, and lab operations while guiding a growing team of scientists, engineers, and technicians.

The ideal candidate will establish characterization strategies supporting R&D, process development, and manufacturing scale-up, delivering accurate data to enable innovation and