R&D Process Engineer Intern — Pilot-Scale Lab (CO)

USA Rare Earth, Inc. (Nasdaq: USAR); Wheat Ridge (CO); On-site; USD 28,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

USA Rare Earth is seeking a R&D Process Engineering Intern for its Wheat Ridge, CO laboratory. The onsite role focuses on rare earth extraction, separation, and purification, with hands-on lab and pilot plant exposure.

You will assist with experimental design, data collection, and process development, collaborating with engineers and operations to scale up while following safety and quality standards.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a technical field.
• Relevant coursework in chemistry, metallurgy, chemical processing, or mineral processing.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with an interest in hands-on technical work.
• Ability to accurately collect, analyze, and communicate technical information.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Support laboratory and pilot-scale experiments related to rare earth extraction, separation, and purification.
• Assist with experimental design, sample preparation, testing, data collection, and analysis.
• Support pilot plant operations, including equipment setup, testing, monitoring, and troubleshooting.
• Perform mass balance calculations and analyze process data to evaluate recovery, efficiency, and product quality.
• Assist with SOPs, test plans, technical reports, and other process documentation.
• Collaborate with engineers, technicians, and operations personnel to support process development and scale‑up.
• Follow established safety, quality, and environmental procedures.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s/Master’s in Chemical Eng. or related

Job description

USA Rare Earth is seeking a R&D Process Engineering Intern for its Wheat Ridge, CO laboratory. The onsite role focuses on rare earth extraction, separation, and purification, with hands-on lab and pilot plant exposure.

You will assist with experimental design, data collection, and process development, collaborating with engineers and operations to scale up while following safety and quality standards.