About the job
Empowering the Future with Rare-Earth Metals
At Solcoa, we are dedicated to stabilizing the Western rare-earth metal supply chain, essential for powering fighter jets, electric vehicles, wind turbines, smartphones, and generators. As one of the few companies outside of China producing rare-earth metals, we pride ourselves on delivering a 100% U. S. supply of both light and heavy rare earths. Our innovative carbon-zero process transforms end-of-life magnets into usable metals, supporting energy independence and securing vital global resources.
Join our dynamic and well-funded team, where we are accelerating the production of Western rare-earth metals and building an exceptional group of engineers committed to solving this critical challenge.
Your Role , Plant Operator
We are seeking skilled Plant Operators to manage and maintain our rare-earth metal production facility. You will oversee the daily operations of our pilot-scale production lines, which include high-temperature reactors, vacuum systems, induction furnaces, and material handling from feedstock preparation to finished metals. Your focus will be on maximizing throughput and uptime while ensuring compliance with the highest safety and quality standards. You will play a critical role as we transition from pilot to commercial production.
Key Responsibilities
Operate and monitor pilot-scale production equipment such as vacuum induction furnaces, tube furnaces (up to 1700°C), high-vacuum pump systems, and inert-atmosphere gloveboxes.
Manage production runs from start to finish, including feedstock preparation, reactor charging, process execution, product recovery, and packaging in inert conditions.
Track and log essential process parameters (temperature profiles, vacuum levels, gas flows, cycle times); identify deviations and execute real-time adjustments to maintain specifications.
Conduct preventive and first-line corrective maintenance on furnaces, vacuum systems, gas delivery, and material handling equipment; collaborate with engineering teams for major repairs.
Prepare samples for analytical testing (ICP-OES, IGF-O/N, SEM-EDS) and understand how results influence process control.
Safely operate overhead cranes (2T & 5T), forklifts, and rigging equipment to transport feedstock, crucibles, and finished products.
Adhere to strict housekeeping, chemical hygiene, and safety protocols, especially around hot materials, reactive powders, and inert-gas environments.
Assist in the commissioning and startup of new production lines and equipment as we scale operations.
Collaborate with R&D engineering teams to enhance processes and improve production efficiency.
