Metallurgist

Company Overview

MP Materials (NYSE: MP) is rebuilding American industrial capability for a new era of autonomy, robotics, and electrification.

We are the only U.S. company with a fully integrated rare earth supply chain—from mining and refining to advanced metal and magnet manufacturing. Our products include both the critical materials used to make permanent magnets and the finished magnets themselves—enabling next-generation technologies in robotics, automation, aerospace, transportation, defense, and energy systems. These materials are the foundation of physical AI—the convergence of computation, movement, and control.

We hire ambitious, mission-driven people who want to tackle complex challenges and shape the future of strategic industries. Our culture is rooted in teamwork, resiliency, and integrity, with a deep commitment to operational excellence and national purpose. MP is rapidly evolving from a materials producer into a leading U.S. manufacturer—and our people are driving that transformation.

The Metallurgist supports research and development for rare earth mineral processing. This position also supports the daily plant operations, as well as the design, commissioning, and operation of new plants via process improvements, and capital projects. There are four levels of Metallurgist in the Metallurgy Department: I, II, and Senior, all reporting to the area Lead Metallurgist. MP Materials is currently looking for levels I and II Metallurgist.

• Develop experiment plans, and conduct research to study the feasibility of producing rare earth concentrate from various feed stocks.
• Conduct sampling campaigns to ensure representative samples are available for research programs.
• Create and maintain lab documentation such as log sheets and SOP's; maintain a “hands-on” spirit in the laboratory.
• Identify opportunities and develop scopes for small and medium capital project needs; participate in large capital project teams to provide technical support; prepare project technical reports and budget information.
• Collaborate with the purchasing team, maintenance, contractors, operators, outside vendors, and other team members to ensure all projects are completed in a timely manner with sound quality.
• Startup and commissioning new equipment and processes.
• Excellent communication skills, verbal and written.
• Ability to complete a task with appropriate coaching and minimal supervision.
• High proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), and statistical software
• Ability to travel as needed (< 10%).
• Strong technical writing capability & attention to detail.
• Follow all company, industry and regulatory procedures and laws to ensure safe work by oneself and the company.

• Complete any other tasks as needed or as directed by management.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mineral Processing, Chemical or Metallurgical Engineering, or a related field or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience required.
• Valid Driver’s License and a good driving record are required to drive company vehicles on property.
• 0-3 years’ experience as a Metallurgical Engineer / Metallurgist in a mining, milling, or heavy industrial setting is required for Metallurgist I
• 3-6 years’ experience as a Metallurgical Engineer / Metallurgist in a mining, milling, or heavy industrial setting is required for Metallurgist II

• Advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.)
• Previous experience as a Metallurgical Engineer / Metallurgist in consulting lab or plant operation.
• Proven experience in testing flotation chemicals in a laboratory or scaled pilot plant.
• Experience with mineralogical analysis equipment such as MLA, Qemscan, XRD, etc.

MP Materials is Proud to be an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Underrepresented groups/Women/Disabled/Veterans are encouraged to apply. Candidates whose disabilities make them unable to meet the…