R&D Pilot Operations Technician

Vulcan Elements Inc.; North Carolina; On-site; USD 45,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Vulcan Elements Inc. is seeking an Operator for our R&D and pilot operations at the RTP, NC facility. You will work hands-on with engineers and technicians to safely execute pilot-scale manufacturing while helping develop processes for future production.

This role requires adaptability to evolving processes and a strong emphasis on safety, documentation, and collaboration with cross-functional teams in a high-tech materials environment.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Hands-on experience or aptitude in industrial, manufacturing, laboratory, mechanical or technical operations.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn unfamiliar equipment and processes.
• Ability to follow written procedures and safety instructions while adapting as processes evolve.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to document observations and operating conditions.
• Ability to communicate effectively with engineers, technicians and operations leadership.
• Comfort working in dynamic environments where priorities may change as technology develops.
• Must be a U.S. Person due to access to export-controlled information or facilities.

Responsibilities

• Safely execute pilot-scale and R&D manufacturing processes with engineering teams.
• Prepare equipment and work areas prior to startup, including cleaning and checklists.
• Execute startup, steady-state operation, shutdown and cleaning procedures.
• Monitor PLC/HMI systems and respond to alarms and deviations.
• Collect in-process samples and ensure proper handling and documentation.
• Perform high-temperature process activities and material handling.
• Support experimental production runs and process-development campaigns.
• Document process conditions, observations and equipment performance for analysis.
• Collaborate with engineers to troubleshoot equipment and processes.
• Assist with installation, commissioning, qualification and modification activities.
• Contribute to SOPs, work instructions, checklists and operating practices.
• Adapt to evolving processes and configurations as development progresses.
• Provide equipment usability and safety feedback to improve execution.
• Maintain strong housekeeping and organized R&D environment.
• Contribute to continuous equipment, process and facility improvements.

Skills

Hands-on manufacturing

Mechanical aptitude

Attention to detail

Follow procedures

Engineer communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Vacuum furnaces

Casting machines

Atomizers

Molten metal handling equipment

Welding / CAD experience

Job description

Vulcan Elements Inc. is seeking an Operator for our R&D and pilot operations at the RTP, NC facility. You will work hands-on with engineers and technicians to safely execute pilot-scale manufacturing while helping develop processes for future production.

This role requires adaptability to evolving processes and a strong emphasis on safety, documentation, and collaboration with cross-functional teams in a high-tech materials environment.