Chemist

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.

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Chemist to join the Magnet Technology group to support development technologies for advanced manufacturing to produce high‑performance rare earth permanent magnets. The Chemist will be responsible for developing, validating, and optimizing analytical methods for ICP‑OES (Inductively Coupled Plasma – Optical Emission Spectroscopy) as well as LECO CS/ONH techniques, among others. This position will have responsibility for a broad range of initiatives, including ensuring data integrity and supporting various development projects.

This is a rare opportunity to play a key role in returning an essential manufacturing capability to the USA.

• Perform routine and advanced analyses using ICP‑OES and LECO CS/ONH analyzers, ensuring accurate and reliable results.
• Develop, validate, optimize, and troubleshoot analytical methods for a variety of matrices (raw materials, intermediates, and finished magnet products).
• Prepare and digest samples using appropriate wet chemistry techniques (acid digestion, fusion, etc.).
• Troubleshoot instrument performance issues and perform routine maintenance and calibration.
• Interpret and review analytical data with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Clearly document and communicate results and methods, including creation of reports and standard work instructions.
• Train and mentor junior chemists and technicians.
• Handle corrosive and hazardous chemicals with proper PPE and safety protocols, and ensure laboratory safety, compliance with regulatory guidelines, and proper chemical waste handling.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or a related discipline.
• 3-5 years of direct experience operating and developing methods on ICP‑OES and LECO instruments.
• Strong understanding of interference, correction, spectral overlaps, and matrix effects.
• Ability to develop novel digestion and fusion protocols for refractory materials.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Advanced proficiency in ICP‑OES and LECO analyzers involving rare earth elements.
• 5+ years of experience working in an R&D or QA/QC environment with a proven track record of developing, optimizing, and validating new analytical methods.
• Familiarity with other analytical instrumentation (e.g., DSC/TGA, SEM/EDS, XRD, and XRF).
• Strong skills in statistical analysis, root cause analysis, and troubleshooting complex analytical challenges.
• Ability to work independently and as a part of a collaborative team.
• Demonstrated leadership in driving innovation, efficiency, and quality assurance in laboratory workflows.
• Lifelong learner able and enthusiastic to apply existing skills and experiences to new problems.

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…