Process Technician - ELYSIS

Alcoa; New Kensington (Westmoreland County); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Alcoa is seeking a Process Technician for the ELYSIS team in New Kensington, PA. This role involves development and scale-up of advanced materials for the carbon-free aluminum smelting process.

The ideal candidate will manage equipment operation and R&D experiments, requiring a high school diploma, strong attention to detail, and mechanical skills. The position will follow a 12-hour rotating shift schedule, and offers a dynamic work environment at the Alcoa Technical Center.

Benefits include equal opportunity in a diverse workplace committed to equity and inclusion.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of work experience in an industrial environment with emphasis on material handling.
• Strong documentation, organization, and analytical skills.
• Ability to work in a team-oriented environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute tasks including material batching and handling.
• Prepare and test samples for chemical composition and physical properties.
• Operate overhead cranes, forklifts, and other mobile equipment.

Skills

Mechanical aptitude

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

MS Outlook

MS Excel

MS PowerPoint

MS Project

JMP

MS Access

Job description

Process Technician – ELYSIS

The position is a Technician role focused on the development and scale‑up of advanced materials and manufacturing techniques for the carbon‑free aluminum smelting process. The Technician will work within the ELYSIS R&D team at the Alcoa Technical Center (ATC) in New Kensington, PA.

About the Position

The technician will assist with equipment operation, process development, and R&D experiments. The role is part of a development team working on production, processing, testing, and scale‑up of advanced materials and manufacturing techniques.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and execute tasks including material batching, material handling (e.g., equipment loading and unloading), equipment operation, and maintenance.
• Prepare and test samples for chemical composition and physical properties as required for material development using laboratory analytical equipment.
• Apply strong mechanical aptitude to work independently and lead teams for equipment disassembly, repair, and troubleshooting.
• Develop and maintain safe work instructions and work in compliance with all Alcoa EHS best practices.
• Operate overhead cranes, forklifts, and other mobile equipment.
• Work a 12‑hour rotating day and evening shift schedule; initially Monday‑Friday daylight shifts.
• Outline and perform required tasks to achieve objectives with infrequent review of progress and results.
• Coordinate activities related to projects, ensuring documentation, schedule, and metrics are met.
• Execute designed experiments, record and analyze data, and communicate results and observations to team members.

About You

• High school diploma or GED.
• Strong aptitude in a skilled trade (e.g., vocational training in mechanical, electrical, automotive, HVAC, carpentry, welding, plumbing, etc.).
• 2+ years of work experience in an industrial environment with emphasis on material handling.
• Ability to work in a team‑oriented and learning environment.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Develop, recommend, and implement innovative procedures to solve problems.
• Demonstrate strong safety focus according to Alcoa EHS standards, protocols, and tools.
• Ability to train and work with resources within and outside the program team.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Proficient computer skills: MS Outlook, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint, MS Project, JMP, MS Access or other database.
• Strong documentation, organization, and analytical skills for data management, analysis, and results presentation.

About the Location

The ELYSIS US Research & Development facility is located in the Alcoa Technical Center (ATC) in New Kensington, PA, near Pittsburgh. The ATC is the birthplace of the aluminum industry and houses integrated teams that develop the carbon‑free smelting process.

EEO Statement

Alcoa is an equal opportunity workplace dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of a person’s gender, age, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, nation of origin, disability, veteran status, language spoken, or any other characteristic protected by law. The company is committed to inclusion, diversity, and equity, providing trusting workplaces that are safe, respectful, and inclusive of all individuals.

For accommodation requests related to the application process, please contact Alcoa Recruiting via email at [e-mail].