Overview Vulcan Elements is pioneering the onshoring of rare-earth permanent magnet manufacturing with a fully domestic/allied supply chain, focused on strengthening America’s industrial base and responsibly decarbonizing. We serve critical industries such as defense, aerospace, and automotive, playing a vital role in securing a safe, sustainable future. As a R&D Technician, you will accomplish a broad set of tasks in a research and development environment. You will operate equipment, optimize processes alongside engineering, prepare materials, load & unloaded materials, and maintain a safe, orderly working environment. You will work alongside a team of materials & process engineers, magnetics engineers, and technicians to accomplish company milestones. This is a full-time onsite role in Durham, NC. Description Contribute to the buildout of Vulcan’s manufacturing and research capabilities, including equipment installation, commissioning, and continuous equipment and facility improvements Responsible for operating equipment, transferring materials, and preparing material in order to achieve development objectives ahead of time and at a high quality Maintain equipment in good working order, establish preventative maintenance for new equipment, conduct maintenance as required Develop, build, and implement new prototype equipment, tooling, and processes alongside engineering, including electromechanical, chemical, and/or analytical/test equipment. Establish standard operating procedures alongside engineering. Qualifications High School Diploma or GED at a minimum Strong communication and planning skills Able to lift and carry 50 lbs Comfortable with hands on work requiring extended physical activity and standing Comfortable operating, troubleshooting, and maintaining sophisticated manufacturing equipment. Prefer experience running vacuum furnaces, casting machines, atomizers, or other related metal powder manufacturing equipment Comfortable reading equipment schematics, both electrical and plumbing, to troubleshoot mechanical issues