Specialist, Chlor-Alkali

Location: Mountain Pass

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.

Position Overview:

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Specialist, Chlor-Alkali to support the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of our chlor-alkali process. This role provides technical expertise for daily operations, troubleshooting, process optimization, and capital improvement projects related to chlor-alkali manufacturing. The ideal candidate brings deep knowledge of brine treatment, electrolytic cell operations (membrane/cell room), acid, chlorine, caustic handling, and associated utilities and safety systems.

Position Responsibilities:

* Serve as the subject matter expert (SME) for chlor-alkali production processes, including brine preparation, electrolysis, and acid, caustic and bleach storage and handling.

* Monitor plant performance and work closely with operations, maintenance, and engineering teams to troubleshoot issues, improve efficiency, and reduce unplanned downtime.

* Develop and implement process improvements by analyzing operational data, identifying trends, and implementing best practices to optimize yields, energy usage, and raw material consumption.

* Support turnaround planning, maintenance activities, and capital projects with detailed technical input and scope development.

* Lead or support incident investigations, root cause analysis, and correct action planning.

* Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety (EHS) regulations and standards, including participation in Process Hazard Analyses (PHAs) and Management of Change (MOC) processes.

* Provide training, mentoring, and knowledge transfer to operators, technicians, and junior engineers.

* Collaborate with external vendors and technical specialists on equipment performance and upgrades.

* Maintain accurate records, including production reports, safety incidents, and process logs.

* Develop, maintain, and updated standard operating procedures, technical documentation, and operating envelopes for adherence to safety protocols and regulatory compliance.

Basic Qualifications:

* 5+ years of experience in chlor-alkali operations, preferably in a chemical manufacturing environment.

* Strong working knowledge of electrochemical cell systems (membrane cell technology), chlorine and caustic processing, and supporting utilities.

* Demonstrated ability to lead or contribute to cross-functional teams and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

* Proficient in process data analysis tools, DCS systems, and PI data historian systems.

* Solid understanding of regulatory compliance.

* Excellent problem-solving, communication, and organizational skills.

* Excellent writing, time management, problem solving, organization and communication skills (both written and verbal) required.

* HS/GED Required

* BS degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field, preferred.

* A Valid Driver's License and good driving record required in order to drive company vehicles on property.

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,…