Manager, Prototyping

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Manager, Prototyping Company: MP Materials Corp. Location: Fort Worth, TX, US Job Type: Full Time Category: Operations Management / Manufacturing Operations Date Posted: November 04, 2025 Experience Level: 10+ Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead pilot-scale magnet manufacturing operations, focusing on prototyping and experimental trials to drive next-generation technologies.
• Manage and develop teams of supervisors and technicians to ensure safe, efficient, and high-quality execution of advanced manufacturing processes.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives, process optimization, and operational excellence within the Magnet Technology group.
• Play a pivotal role in rebuilding and scaling essential manufacturing capabilities within the United States.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within the "Magnet Technology" group, indicating a focus on specialized materials science and advanced manufacturing. The "Prototyping" aspect suggests a dynamic environment involving R&D, experimental runs, and process refinement, requiring a strong blend of technical understanding and operational leadership. The emphasis on "rebuilding American industrial capability" highlights a strategic mission-driven aspect to the role.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee and direct daily operations of pilot-scale magnet manufacturing, including scheduling, labor allocation, and equipment utilization to meet production targets and experimental objectives.
• Provide robust leadership, mentorship, and performance management to supervisors and their technician teams, ensuring adherence to safety, quality, and efficiency standards.
• Monitor and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) such as yield, throughput, and labor efficiency, implementing data-driven corrective actions to optimize outcomes.
• Develop, document, and enforce standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions, ensuring strict compliance by all operational personnel.
• Manage the maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimization of pilot manufacturing equipment to maximize uptime and operational reliability.
• Collaborate closely with Engineering, Quality Assurance, and Maintenance departments to identify systemic issues, investigate process deviations, and implement sustainable corrective and preventative actions (CAPAs).
• Champion and enforce a world-class health and safety culture, ensuring full compliance with all environmental regulations and company EHS policies.
• Lead reporting efforts to senior management on production performance, resource requirements, operational risks, and strategic priorities.
• Direct the implementation of lean manufacturing principles, 5S methodologies, and other process improvement frameworks to enhance operational efficiency and reduce waste.
• Manage operations involving air-sensitive materials, ensuring proper handling, containment, and process control protocols are strictly followed.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a hands-on leadership approach with a strong focus on process control, continuous improvement, and cross-functional collaboration, typical of advanced manufacturing operations roles. The inclusion of managing air-sensitive materials indicates a need for specialized process knowledge and stringent safety protocols.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• B.S. in Materials Science & Engineering, Metallurgy, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related technical field.

Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of progressive operations experience within a manufacturing environment.
• At least 3 years of direct experience managing and developing supervisors, technicians, and operators.
• Extensive experience in metal or ceramic manufacturing processes, including but not limited to casting, powder processing, heat treatments, machining, and surface finishing.

Required Skills:

• Materials Science Expertise: Deep understanding of metals and ceramics, with specific knowledge applicable to magnet materials.
• Manufacturing Process Proficiency: Proven experience in diverse manufacturing operations, with a focus on prototyping and pilot-scale production.
• Operational Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, and manage teams to achieve rigorous production and safety goals.
• Performance Management: Skill in setting performance standards, monitoring KPIs, and implementing corrective actions to drive efficiency and quality.
• Safety & Compliance: Unwavering commitment to safety practices, regulatory compliance, and maintaining a disciplined operational environment.
• Problem-Solving: A hands-on, analytical approach to identifying root causes and developing effective solutions for complex manufacturing challenges.
• Organizational Acumen: Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic setting.
• Process Documentation: Experience in developing and maintaining clear, concise, and accurate operational procedures.
• Collaborative Mindset: Proven ability to collaborate effectively across diverse departments, including Engineering, Quality, and Maintenance.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous focus on detail critical for precision manufacturing and quality control.
• Adaptability: Ability to thrive and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, evolving manufacturing environment.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication capabilities for clear reporting and stakeholder engagement.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with managing operations for air-sensitive materials, including specialized handling and containment procedures.
• Proficiency in scheduling, prioritizing tasks, and delegating effectively to meet project milestones and production deadlines.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing principles, 5S, Six Sigma, or other recognized process improvement methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications strongly indicate a need for a candidate with a solid technical foundation in materials science and manufacturing, coupled with significant leadership experience in a hands-on operational setting. The preference for experience with air-sensitive materials and process improvement methodologies points towards a role that requires specialized knowledge and a commitment to efficiency.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case Studies in Process Optimization: Evidence of successful implementation of process improvements that led to measurable gains in yield, throughput, or cost reduction within a manufacturing context.
• Operational Efficiency Metrics: Demonstrations of how you have tracked, analyzed, and improved key operational metrics (e.g., OEE, cycle time, scrap rate).
• Team Leadership Examples: Documentation or case studies illustrating your approach to team management, performance development, and fostering a culture of accountability and safety.
• Problem-Solving Frameworks: Examples of complex manufacturing challenges you have faced and the structured methodologies used to diagnose and resolve them.

Process Documentation:

• SOP Development & Implementation: Samples or descriptions of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) you have developed for manufacturing processes, including their implementation and impact.
• Workflow Design & Enhancement: Portfolios showcasing workflow diagrams or process maps that you have created or improved to enhance efficiency and reduce bottlenecks.
• Quality Control Procedures: Documentation related to quality control checkpoints, deviation investigations, and corrective action implementation within a production environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role focused on prototyping and pilot-scale manufacturing, the portfolio should emphasize practical application of process improvement methodologies, data-driven decision-making, and the ability to translate technical challenges into actionable operational plans. Demonstrating experience with documentation and adherence to quality and safety standards is crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $150,000 - $200,000 per year

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement Savings Plan: 401(k) with company match.
• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays.
• Life and Disability Insurance: Employer-provided coverage.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, conferences, and continuing education in advanced manufacturing and materials science.
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP): Opportunity to invest in the company's growth.

Working Hours:

• Standard 40-hour work week, with potential for overtime as required by production schedules and project demands. Flexibility in hours may be necessary to support pilot operations and experimental trial timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is at the higher end for a Manager role, reflecting the specialized nature of the industry, the critical mission of the company, and the significant experience required. The benefits package is typical for a full-time position at a publicly traded company, with a strong emphasis on health and long-term financial well-being.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Materials Manufacturing (Rare Earths, Permanent Magnets) Company Size: MP Materials is a rapidly growing company, indicated by its public listing and expansion efforts, likely employing several hundred to over a thousand individuals. Founded: MP Materials was founded in 2017, positioning it as a relatively young but ambitious company focused on a critical, long-established industry.

Team Structure:

• The Prototyping Manager will lead a team comprising supervisors and technicians focused on pilot-scale magnet production within the Magnet Technology group.
• This role reports to senior leadership within the Operations or Magnet Technology division, with frequent collaboration with Engineering, R&D, Quality, and EHS departments.
• The team structure is designed to foster close collaboration between research, development, and manufacturing to accelerate the prototyping and scale-up process.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Operations: Emphasis on using performance data to drive decision-making, identify inefficiencies, and implement targeted improvements.
• Integrated Process Development: A methodology that closely links R&D, engineering design, and manufacturing execution to ensure seamless transition from concept to pilot production.
• Continuous Improvement Culture: An ongoing commitment to refining processes, enhancing safety protocols, and optimizing resource utilization through systematic analysis and implementation of best practices.

Company Website: https://www.mpmaterials.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: MP Materials operates in a highly strategic and mission-critical sector. The company culture is likely to be fast-paced, innovative, and focused on achieving ambitious goals related to domestic manufacturing and technological advancement. The emphasis on "ambitious, mission-driven people" suggests a demanding yet rewarding environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior management position within operations, specifically focused on specialized manufacturing processes (prototyping, pilot scale). It requires a blend of technical depth, process management expertise, and supervisory leadership.

Reporting Structure: The Manager, Prototyping will report to a Director or VP level executive within the Operations or Magnet Technology division. They will directly manage a team of supervisors, who in turn manage front-line technicians. This structure allows for direct oversight of daily operations while providing strategic direction from senior leadership.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on MP Materials' ability to innovate and scale its magnet manufacturing capabilities. Successful prototyping and pilot production are critical for validating new technologies, refining production processes, and ultimately enabling the mass production of advanced magnets essential for electrification, automation, and defense applications. The efficiency and quality of this operation directly influence product development timelines and cost-effectiveness.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advancement to Director Level: Potential to move into higher-level operational leadership roles, overseeing larger manufacturing divisions or expanding responsibilities to encompass full-scale production.
• Specialization in Advanced Materials: Deepen expertise in rare earth magnet manufacturing and related technologies, becoming a subject matter expert in a highly sought-after field.
• Leadership in Scale-Up Initiatives: Play a key role in the company’s growth by leading the scaling of operations from pilot to commercial production.
• Cross-Functional Leadership: Opportunities to lead or contribute to cross-functional projects involving R&D, engineering, and business development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers significant growth potential within a company at the forefront of reshoring critical manufacturing capabilities. Success in this position could lead to influential leadership roles in a rapidly expanding and strategically important industry.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily based in a manufacturing facility environment, involving significant time spent on the production floor, in pilot labs, and in associated office spaces for planning and reporting. Office Location(s): Fort Worth, Texas, is a major industrial and logistical hub, offering access to a skilled workforce and robust infrastructure. MP Materials' primary operations are centered around its Mountain Pass facility in California, but prototyping and advanced manufacturing may occur at various company sites or specialized facilities.

Workspace Context:

• Hands-On Environment: Expect to be actively involved on the shop floor, observing processes, troubleshooting equipment, and interacting directly with teams.
• Advanced Technology: Access to cutting-edge prototyping equipment, specialized materials handling systems, and potentially cleanroom or controlled atmosphere environments.
• Collaborative Spaces: Opportunities to work closely with engineers, scientists, and other technical professionals in designated project areas and meeting rooms.

Work Schedule:

• The standard 40-hour work week will likely require flexibility. Given the nature of pilot production and experimental trials, extended hours, weekend work, or adjusted shifts may be necessary to meet critical deadlines or manage ongoing processes. The company emphasizes operational discipline and meeting project milestones.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a candidate comfortable with an industrial manufacturing setting, which includes potential exposure to noise, varying temperatures, and the need for specialized personal protective equipment (PPE). The environment is dynamic, driven by the fast-paced nature of prototyping and the company’s mission.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review and potential a brief phone screen with HR to assess basic qualifications and interest.
• Hiring Manager Interview: In-depth discussion with the hiring manager focusing on operational experience, leadership style, technical knowledge, and alignment with company values. Expect behavioral questions and scenario-based inquiries.
• Technical/Operations Assessment: A more technical interview or a case study simulation where candidates may be asked to analyze a manufacturing scenario, propose solutions to a process challenge, or discuss their approach to managing specific operational risks. This is where portfolio insights will be crucial.
• Cross-Functional/Team Interview: Meeting with key stakeholders from Engineering, Quality, or EHS to assess collaboration skills and understanding of inter-departmental dependencies.
• Final Interview/Offer: Discussions with senior leadership, potentially including a final review of the candidate's overall fit and potential contribution.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For each project or initiative highlighted, provide specific, measurable results (e.g., "Increased yield by 15%", "Reduced cycle time by 20%", "Improved safety incident rate by X%").
• Showcase Process Improvement: Clearly articulate the problem, your proposed solution, the implementation steps, and the outcome. Use diagrams or flowcharts where appropriate to illustrate process changes.
• Highlight Leadership Impact: Include examples of how you mentored teams, resolved conflicts, improved team performance, or fostered a positive and productive work environment.
• Tailor to Prototyping: Emphasize experience in pilot production, experimental runs, and adapting processes for new product introductions. Discuss your approach to managing uncertainty and iteration.
• Demonstrate Safety Commitment: Include examples of safety initiatives you led or contributed to, and how you ensured compliance and a safe working environment.

Challenge Preparation:

• Process Optimization Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss hypothetical issues on a pilot production line (e.g., low yield, equipment failure, material contamination) and outline your step-by-step problem-solving approach.
• Team Management Scenarios: Practice answering questions about how you would handle underperforming employees, manage conflicting priorities among team members, or motivate a team during challenging periods.
• Stakeholder Communication: Prepare to discuss how you would communicate production status, operational risks, and resource needs to senior management and cross-functional partners.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess a candidate's technical acumen, leadership capabilities, and ability to thrive in a mission-critical, fast-paced manufacturing environment. A well-prepared portfolio that showcases quantifiable achievements and a structured approach to problem-solving will be a significant advantage.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES): Experience with systems for tracking production, managing workflows, and collecting real-time data on the shop floor.
• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems: Familiarity with systems like SAP, Oracle, or others for managing inventory, production planning, and supply chain operations.
• Process Simulation Software: Potentially experience with software used for simulating manufacturing processes, optimizing layouts, or predicting outcomes of experimental runs.
• CAD/CAM Software: Basic understanding or ability to interact with design and manufacturing software used by engineering teams.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Advanced Excel: Proficiency in using Excel for data analysis, charting, and reporting on KPIs.
• Business Intelligence (BI) Tools: Experience with tools such as Tableau, Power BI, or similar for creating dashboards and visualizing operational performance data.
• Statistical Analysis Software: Familiarity with tools like Minitab for statistical process control (SPC), design of experiments (DOE), and root cause analysis.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how production schedules and output interface with sales forecasts or order management systems is beneficial.
• Experience with automation technologies relevant to modern manufacturing (e.g., PLCs, robotics integration, automated material handling) is a strong plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with manufacturing-specific software (MES, ERP) and data analysis tools (Excel, BI, Statistical Software) is essential for managing and optimizing pilot production. Familiarity with automation technologies is increasingly important in advanced manufacturing.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Mission-Driven Excellence: A strong commitment to the company's purpose of rebuilding American industrial capability and contributing to national strategic interests.
• Operational Discipline: Adherence to rigorous standards for safety, quality, and efficiency in all aspects of work.
• Continuous Improvement: A proactive mindset focused on identifying opportunities to enhance processes, reduce waste, and increase productivity.
• Teamwork & Collaboration: Valuing strong working relationships and effective communication across all departments to achieve shared goals.
• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding high ethical standards and taking ownership of responsibilities and outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Emphasis on working closely with R&D, Engineering, Quality, and EHS to ensure that prototyping and pilot production align with broader strategic objectives and technical requirements.
• Data-Informed Feedback Loops: A culture where performance data is shared openly, and constructive feedback is used to drive iterative improvements in processes and team performance.
• Proactive Problem Solving: Encouraging team members to raise potential issues early and collaborating to find swift and effective solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's emphasis on "mission-driven people" and "national purpose" suggests a culture that values dedication, hard work, and a sense of contribution to something larger than oneself. Expect a collaborative environment where technical expertise and a results-oriented approach are highly valued.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Scaling Complex Processes: The inherent challenge of transitioning novel materials and manufacturing techniques from laboratory-scale to pilot production, requiring adaptation and iteration.
• Managing Air-Sensitive Materials: Ensuring consistent quality and safety when handling materials that are highly reactive to atmospheric conditions.
• Balancing Speed and Quality: The need to meet aggressive project timelines for prototyping while maintaining the highest standards of quality and process control.
• Evolving Technology Landscape: Staying abreast of advancements in magnet technology and manufacturing processes to ensure MP Materials remains at the cutting edge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Materials Science: Deepen expertise in rare earth materials, permanent magnet physics, and related metallurgical processes.
• Pilot Production Management: Gain hands-on experience in managing the unique complexities of pilot-scale manufacturing operations.
• Process Engineering & Optimization: Develop advanced skills in lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and statistical process control applied to novel production lines.
• Leadership Development: Opportunities for formal leadership training and mentorship within a growing, mission-oriented organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant opportunities for professional growth by tackling complex manufacturing challenges in a strategically vital industry. The ability to adapt, innovate, and lead teams through these challenges will be key to success and development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you had to manage a critical production issue involving a new or experimental process. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on structured problem-solving, data analysis, and cross-functional collaboration).
• "How do you balance the need for speed in prototyping with the requirement for rigorous quality control and safety protocols?" (Highlight your understanding of risk management and process validation).
• "Walk me through your experience in managing and developing a team of supervisors and technicians. What are your key leadership principles?" (Prepare examples of mentorship, performance management, and team motivation).
• "What is your approach to implementing lean manufacturing principles or other continuous improvement methodologies in a prototyping environment?" (Emphasize adaptability and practical application).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you most about MP Materials' mission and our role in rebuilding U.S. manufacturing capabilities?" (Showcase genuine interest in the company's strategic importance).
• "How do you foster a culture of safety and operational discipline within your team, especially when dealing with potentially hazardous materials or processes?" (Connect your experience to the company's values).
• "Describe a situation where you had to collaborate closely with an engineering or R&D team to resolve a manufacturing challenge. What was your role and the outcome?" (Demonstrate interdepartmental communication and teamwork skills).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each significant project or achievement, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to clearly articulate your contributions and the impact.
• Visualize Data: Use charts and graphs to present metrics and KPIs. For process improvements, use before-and-after flowcharts or diagrams.
• Focus on "How": Explain not just what you did, but how you did it – your thought process, the tools you used, and the methodologies you applied.
• Be Ready to Deep Dive: Anticipate detailed questions about your portfolio items, especially regarding technical challenges, decision-making processes, and quantifiable results.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong blend of technical understanding, operational leadership, and strategic thinking, all framed within the context of MP Materials' unique mission. A well-prepared portfolio that quantifies achievements and illustrates process methodologies will be critical.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided ADP portal link.
• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight experience in manufacturing operations, team leadership, process optimization, safety management, and any specific experience with materials science, metallurgy, or prototyping. Use keywords from the job description.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Compile relevant case studies demonstrating your impact on operational efficiency, team development, and problem-solving. Focus on quantifiable results and process improvement examples.
• Research MP Materials: Understand the company's mission, its role in rare earth materials, and its strategic importance to U.S. industry. Be prepared to discuss how your skills align with their goals.
• Practice Your Narrative: Rehearse your responses to common interview questions, particularly those related to leadership, problem-solving, and operational challenges, and be ready to speak to your portfolio items in detail.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.