Senior Technician, Prototyping

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Technician, Prototyping

Company: MP Materials Corp.

Location: Fort Worth, TX, US

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Manufacturing Operations / Prototyping

Date Posted: 2026-08-17

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Supports the development of advanced manufacturing technologies for high-performance rare earth permanent magnets within the Magnet Technology group.

• Operates and maintains pilot plant equipment, crucial for both prototyping and occasional production support, emphasizing hands-on technical execution.

• Executes precise material preparation, handling, and processing of raw materials, powders, and samples, adhering strictly to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• Collects and meticulously documents critical process data using laboratory instruments and various record-keeping formats, vital for data-driven process development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Senior Technician, suggesting a need for demonstrated proficiency and a proactive approach to problem-solving within a manufacturing and prototyping environment. The focus on rare earth permanent magnets indicates a specialized niche within advanced materials manufacturing.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain pilot plant equipment for prototyping rare earth permanent magnets, with the flexibility to support production operations as needed.

• Prepare, handle, and process raw materials, powders, and samples according to established Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and safety guidelines.

• Conduct precise measurements and collect comprehensive process data using various laboratory instruments and analytical tools.

• Actively participate in and assist with pilot-scale experimental trials, ensuring accurate and detailed documentation of all results and observations.

• Uphold a clean, organized, and safe working environment, strictly adhering to all safety protocols and environmental regulations.

• Collaborate closely with the Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) team to ensure world-class health and safety standards and full regulatory compliance.

• Manage multiple priorities effectively in a fast-paced environment, demonstrating strong organizational and time management skills.

• Maintain detailed and accurate records of all activities, experiments, and data in both physical and electronic formats.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of hands-on operational duties, experimental support, and rigorous documentation. The emphasis on safety and compliance, alongside the need to support both R&D (prototyping) and production, indicates a dynamic and critical role in the manufacturing lifecycle.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a technical degree or relevant certifications in manufacturing technology, materials science, or a related field would be advantageous.

Experience: 3+ years of hands-on operation experience in a manufacturing setting is a baseline requirement.

Required Skills:

• 3+ years of direct manufacturing operation experience.

• Exceptional attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy in all tasks.

• Proficiency in record keeping, utilizing both physical logs and electronic systems.

• Strong discipline in following safety practices and standard work instructions to ensure a safe working environment.

• Proven ability to work independently, manage tasks autonomously, and contribute effectively within cross-functional teams.

• Aptitude for managing multiple priorities and adapting to a fast-paced operational environment.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for clear reporting and team collaboration. Preferred Skills:

• 3+ years of hands-on experience operating equipment with Human-Machine Interface (HMI) controls.

• 3+ years of experience in metal or ceramic manufacturing processes, including but not limited to casting, powder processing, heat treatments, machining, and surface finishing.

• Experience in handling air-sensitive materials, requiring specialized techniques and precautions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize practical, hands-on experience and a strong adherence to operational discipline. The preferred skills point towards a candidate with a background in specialized manufacturing processes relevant to magnet production, indicating a desire for specialized expertise beyond general manufacturing.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Documentation of successful pilot plant operations, showcasing equipment setup, process execution, and troubleshooting.

• Examples of detailed data collection and analysis from experimental trials, demonstrating accuracy and insight generation.

• Records of adherence to SOPs and safety protocols in previous manufacturing roles, highlighting process compliance.

• Evidence of experience with HMI-controlled equipment and specific manufacturing processes like powder metallurgy or heat treatment. Process Documentation:

• Work samples illustrating the creation or adherence to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for manufacturing processes.

• Examples of detailed experimental notes, logbooks, or reports that capture process parameters, observations, and results.

• Documentation demonstrating effective record-keeping practices, including data integrity and organization.

• Case studies or project summaries detailing contributions to process improvement or problem-solving in a manufacturing context.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio isn't explicitly requested, candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience through the lens of process execution, data integrity, and adherence to operational standards. Demonstrating a systematic approach to manufacturing tasks and documentation will be crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the "Senior Technician" title, 3+ years of experience, and the location in Fort Worth, TX, a competitive salary range for this on-site role would likely fall between $55,000 - $75,000 annually. This estimate considers industry benchmarks for skilled manufacturing technicians in the advanced materials sector within a major metropolitan area.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement savings plan with company matching (e.g., 401(k)).

• Paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning in advanced manufacturing.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses or incentives.

• Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.

Working Hours: This is a full-time, on-site position. Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, potentially including shifts or overtime depending on pilot plant and production schedules.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on typical compensation for similar roles in the US manufacturing sector, adjusted for experience level and geographic location. Specific benefits packages can vary and should be confirmed with the hiring organization.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: MP Materials operates in the critical minerals and advanced materials sector, specifically focusing on rare earth elements essential for modern technologies like electric vehicles, defense systems, and renewable energy.

Company Size: MP Materials is a publicly traded company (NYSE: MP), indicating a significant operational scale, likely falling into the medium to large enterprise category with over 500 employees. This implies a structured organization with established processes.

Founded: MP Materials was founded with a mission to rebuild U.S. industrial capability, emphasizing its role in strategic manufacturing and national interest. The company is rapidly evolving from a materials producer to a leading manufacturer.

Team Structure:

• The role is within the Magnet Technology group, suggesting a specialized team focused on research, development, and advanced manufacturing of permanent magnets.

• This team likely comprises engineers, scientists, and skilled technicians working collaboratively on R&D projects and pilot-scale operations.

• Cross-functional collaboration is expected with other departments such as R&D, Engineering, Production, EHS, and Quality Assurance to ensure seamless integration of manufacturing processes and product development. Methodology:

• MP Materials emphasizes a mission-driven culture focused on tackling complex challenges and shaping strategic industries.

• Operational excellence, teamwork, resiliency, and integrity are core values.

• The company is committed to a data-driven approach, using critical data for process development and continuous improvement.

• A strong focus on safety and environmental compliance is paramount, reflecting best practices in the advanced materials industry.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's mission to rebuild U.S. industrial capability for advanced technologies provides a strong sense of purpose. The culture appears to value technical expertise, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to national strategic goals, all within a rapidly growing and evolving manufacturing environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This "Senior Technician" role represents an experienced individual contributor within the manufacturing operations and prototyping domain. It implies a level of autonomy, responsibility for complex equipment, and the ability to mentor or guide less experienced team members. The scope involves supporting critical R&D efforts and ensuring smooth pilot-scale operations.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Technician will likely report to a Lead Technician, Engineering Manager, or Supervisor within the Magnet Technology group. This individual will be part of a team that works closely with R&D engineers and potentially production leads.

Operations Impact: The technician's role is crucial for the successful development and refinement of advanced manufacturing processes for rare earth permanent magnets. Accurate data collection, reliable equipment operation, and adherence to experimental protocols directly impact the speed and quality of product development, contributing to MP Materials' strategic goal of re-establishing essential manufacturing capabilities in the USA.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in rare earth magnet manufacturing processes, advanced materials handling, and pilot plant operations.

• Technical Leadership: Transition into lead technician roles, supervising operations, or taking on more complex experimental design and execution.

• Process Improvement: Contribute to optimizing manufacturing workflows, improving efficiency, and reducing waste in the prototyping and pilot phases.

• Cross-Functional Movement: Potential to move into related roles in production support, quality control, or R&D support as experience grows and company needs evolve.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior" designation suggests a clear path for career progression within MP Materials' operations. The company's mission-driven nature and rapid evolution offer exciting opportunities for individuals looking to make a tangible impact in a strategic industry.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role is primarily on-site within a pilot plant and laboratory setting. It is not a remote or hybrid position.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is Fort Worth, TX. MP Materials also has operations in Mountain Pass, California, and Las Vegas, Nevada, but this specific role is based in Texas.

Workspace Context:

• The work environment will involve direct interaction with pilot plant equipment, raw materials, and potentially hazardous substances, necessitating strict adherence to safety protocols.

• Expect a hands-on, lab-based environment that can be noisy and may involve exposure to dust or chemicals, requiring appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

• Opportunities for collaboration will be frequent with fellow technicians, engineers, and R&D personnel within the Magnet Technology group.

• Access to laboratory instruments, data logging systems, and potentially specialized manufacturing machinery will be part of the daily work.

Work Schedule: This is a full-time position, typically 40 hours per week. The schedule may require flexibility to accommodate pilot plant trials, production needs, or potential shift work, especially in a manufacturing environment that may operate beyond standard business hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should be prepared for a physically demanding, hands-on role within an industrial/laboratory setting. The environment requires a strong focus on safety and a willingness to adapt to the operational demands of a pilot manufacturing facility.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess alignment with basic and desired qualifications.

• Technical Interview: Likely to involve discussions about your manufacturing experience, familiarity with pilot plant operations, equipment maintenance, material processing, and safety protocols. Expect questions probing your understanding of SOPs and data collection.

• Hands-on Assessment/Case Study: You may be asked to demonstrate practical skills, discuss how you would approach a specific manufacturing challenge, or walk through a process you've previously managed. This could involve presenting a relevant project from your experience.

• Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Meeting with potential team members and supervisors to assess your collaboration style, problem-solving approach, and alignment with MP Materials' values (teamwork, resiliency, integrity, operational excellence).

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior management to discuss your long-term career aspirations and overall fit within the company's strategic vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Process Expertise: Highlight projects where you successfully operated, maintained, or troubleshooted pilot plant or manufacturing equipment.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., "reduced downtime by X%", "improved data accuracy by Y%").

• Detail Data Handling: Present examples of how you collected, organized, and documented process data, emphasizing accuracy and adherence to standards.

• Emphasize Safety & Compliance: Include instances where you demonstrated strong adherence to safety protocols and SOPs, particularly if involving hazardous materials or complex machinery.

• Highlight Relevant Processes: If you have experience in metal/ceramic manufacturing, powder processing, heat treatment, or machining, prepare to discuss specific projects or challenges in these areas.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would troubleshoot a common issue with pilot plant equipment (e.g., unexpected readings, equipment malfunction).

• Prepare examples of how you have followed complex instructions or SOPs and what you do if instructions are unclear.

• Think about how you ensure data integrity and accuracy when collecting information under pressure.

• Consider scenarios where you had to work independently on a critical task and how you managed your time and responsibilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus heavily on practical, hands-on experience and a strong understanding of manufacturing processes and safety. Candidates should be prepared to speak concretely about their past work and demonstrate a systematic approach to problem-solving.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Pilot Plant Equipment: Experience operating and maintaining specialized machinery for magnet prototyping (e.g., furnaces, presses, mixers, grinders, coating equipment).

• Human-Machine Interface (HMI) Systems: Proficiency in operating equipment controlled via HMI panels, including understanding readouts and basic troubleshooting.

• Laboratory Instruments: Familiarity with basic measurement and testing equipment relevant to material properties and process monitoring (e.g., calipers, scales, temperature probes, potentially basic spectroscopic or magnetic measurement devices).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Logging Systems: Experience with systems used to record process parameters and experimental results, whether digital or manual logbooks.

• Spreadsheet Software: Proficiency in Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets for data organization, basic analysis, and reporting.

CRM & Automation:

• ERP/MES Systems (Potentially): Familiarity with Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) or Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems for tracking materials, production, and inventory, though direct use might be less critical for this technician role compared to higher-level planning roles.

• Data Management Software: Experience with any specific software used for managing experimental data or material traceability within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software names aren't provided, the core requirement is hands-on experience with industrial equipment, HMI controls, and data recording. Familiarity with common data analysis tools like Excel is also a key expectation.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Operational Excellence: A commitment to high standards in all operational tasks, from equipment operation to data recording and safety compliance.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: The ability to work effectively with engineers and fellow technicians to achieve common goals, particularly in a R&D and pilot plant setting.

• Resiliency & Adaptability: The capacity to handle the dynamic nature of a pilot plant environment, adapt to changing priorities, and overcome technical challenges.

• Integrity & Accountability: A strong sense of responsibility for one's work, including accurate data reporting, safe practices, and honest communication.

• National Purpose: A shared understanding and commitment to MP Materials' mission of rebuilding U.S. industrial capability, which drives a sense of dedication and importance in one's role.

Collaboration Style:

• Hands-on Problem Solving: Working collaboratively to diagnose and resolve issues with equipment or processes in real-time.

• Data-Driven Feedback: Providing clear, factual data and observations to engineers and researchers to inform process adjustments and improvements.

• Process Adherence and Improvement Input: Strictly following established procedures while also being encouraged to suggest improvements based on practical experience.

• Cross-Functional Communication: Effectively communicating with EHS, Quality Assurance, and R&D teams to ensure integrated operations and product development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at MP Materials appears to be a blend of a mission-driven, impactful work environment with a strong emphasis on technical rigor, safety, and teamwork. Candidates who align with these values and can contribute to a collaborative, results-oriented atmosphere will be a good fit.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Dynamic Pilot Environment: Adapting to the evolving nature of pilot plant operations, where processes may change frequently as new data is gathered and refined.

• Handling Specialized Materials: Working with potentially air-sensitive or hazardous materials requires meticulous attention to detail and strict adherence to handling protocols.

• Troubleshooting Complex Equipment: Diagnosing and resolving issues with specialized pilot plant machinery can be challenging and require creative problem-solving.

• Balancing R&D and Production Support: Effectively managing responsibilities that span both experimental prototyping and supporting ongoing production needs.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Materials Manufacturing: Gaining in-depth knowledge and practical skills in the production of rare earth permanent magnets and related processes.

• Pilot Plant Operations Expertise: Developing specialized skills in operating and maintaining advanced pilot-scale manufacturing equipment.

• Process Optimization: Contributing to the continuous improvement of manufacturing processes, enhancing efficiency and product quality.

• Industry Impact: Being part of a company at the forefront of re-establishing critical U.S. manufacturing capabilities, offering a unique sense of purpose and contribution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers significant opportunities for skill development in a niche but critical manufacturing sector. Navigating the inherent challenges of a pilot environment will foster adaptability and advanced technical problem-solving abilities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Process & Equipment: "Describe your experience operating and maintaining pilot plant equipment. What steps do you take to ensure equipment is calibrated and ready for use?" "Walk me through a time you had to troubleshoot a complex issue with manufacturing machinery."

• Data & Documentation: "How do you ensure the accuracy and integrity of the data you collect during experimental trials?" "Describe your process for documenting experimental results and observations."

• Safety & Compliance: "What is your approach to safety in a manufacturing environment, especially when handling new materials or processes?" "How do you ensure compliance with SOPs and environmental regulations?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about MP Materials' mission to rebuild U.S. industrial capability?"

• "Describe a time you had to work effectively within a cross-functional team to achieve a goal."

• "How do you handle working in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Focus on Impact: Select 1-2 key projects or experiences that best demonstrate your skills in equipment operation, process execution, data handling, and safety.

• Quantify Results: Use metrics and specific examples to show the tangible outcomes of your work, e.g., "maintained X% uptime for critical equipment," "reduced data entry errors by Y%."

• Process Walkthrough: Be prepared to verbally walk through a process you managed, highlighting your role, the steps taken, challenges encountered, and how you ensured quality and safety.

• Highlight Relevant Skills: Clearly articulate your experience with HMI, material handling, specific manufacturing processes (metal, ceramic, powder), and your commitment to SOPs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating practical, hands-on skills, a strong understanding of manufacturing processes, and a commitment to safety and data integrity. Be ready to provide specific examples that align with the job requirements and MP Materials' company values.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Technician, Prototyping position:

• Submit your application through the provided ADP workforcenow.adp.com link.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 3+ years of manufacturing operation experience, specific equipment you've operated (especially HMI-controlled), experience with material processing, and any background in metal/ceramic manufacturing, powder processing, or heat treatment. Quantify your achievements where possible.

• Portfolio Preparation: Mentally prepare to discuss specific projects where you demonstrated strong attention to detail, followed SOPs rigorously, collected and documented data accurately, and prioritized safety. Have examples ready for troubleshooting and teamwork.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with MP Materials' mission, products (rare earth magnets), and its role in rebuilding U.S. industrial capability. Understand their emphasis on operational excellence, safety, and innovation.

• Interview Practice: Practice answering common interview questions related to manufacturing operations, equipment handling, problem-solving, and teamwork. Be ready to articulate your experience with specific processes and your commitment to safety and data integrity.

⚠️ 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.