Materials Analysis Engineer - Data and Process Systems

Materials Analysis Engineer - Data and Process Systems

Research Triangle Park, NC

Vulcan Elements is manufacturing American rare-earth permanent magnets for a secure, resilient future. With a focus on national security and economic resiliency, we serve critical industries such as defense, aerospace, and automotive powering a high-technology future. Vulcan Elements is building a team of ambitious professionals committed to Mission Focus, Technical Excellence and Transparency.

We are seeking a highly motivated Materials Analysis Engineer to join our laboratory and analysis team. This individual will operate advanced analytical equipment, develop and refine testing methods, and ensure generation of reliable, high-quality data. In addition to hands‑on laboratory work, the role involves advanced data analysis, including statistical and machine learning (ML) methods.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain advanced materials characterization equipment, including:
  • Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) with EDS and EBSD
  • Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES)
  • Combustion and inert gas fusion analysis
  • Laser diffraction particle size measurement
  • Metallographic sample preparation (mounting, polishing, etching)
• Develop and improve laboratory test methods to enhance accuracy, reproducibility, and efficiency.
• Ensure consistent generation of high-quality data, including establishing quality control standards and calibration protocols.
• Perform in-depth data analysis using statistical methods and machine learning techniques.
• Develop, train, and validate ML models for materials data interpretation and prediction.
• Document procedures, test results, and method development in a clear, structured manner.

Responsibilities and tasks outlined are not exhaustive and may change as determined by the needs of the business.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• Hands‑on experience with materials characterization equipment (SEM, EDS, EBSD, ICP-OES, etc.) and metallographic sample preparation.
• Proficiency in data analysis, including statistics, scripting (Python) and data visualization.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and ability to innovate in test method development.
• Experience with machine learning frameworks (scikit‑learn, PyTorch, etc.).
• Knowledge of materials and mechanical thermodynamics, solidification, or powder metallurgy processes.
• Previous experience applying simulation tools to materials processing or structural analysis.
• Must be a U.S. Person due to required access to U.S. export‑controlled information or facilities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Docker and containerized deployment.
• Familiarity with FastAPI, Flask, or Dash for internal tools and dashboards.
• Experience integrating industrial data systems (OPC-UA, Modbus, MQTT).
• Exposure to PyTorch, scikit‑learn, and scientific Python tooling (Num Py, pandas).

This position requires access to information and technology that is subject to US Export Control. Vulcan Elements will use this information to determine if you are eligible to receive this information under US Law.