Hydrometallurgical R&D Engineer Job

Are you passionate about advancing critical mineral technologies and helping build America's domestic rare earth supply chain? Join USA Rare Earth as a Hydrometallurgical R&D Engineer and contribute to the development and scale-up of innovative rare earth processing technologies that power electric vehicles, clean energy, advanced electronics, semiconductors, and defense applications.
This is a unique opportunity for a hands-on engineer who enjoys solving technical challenges, operating pilot-scale systems, and transforming breakthrough research into commercial reality.
What You'll Do
?? Design and execute experiments focused on rare earth leaching, solvent extraction, separation, and purification.
?? Support the scale-up of rare earth processing technologies from laboratory research to pilot plant operations.
?? Operate, troubleshoot, and optimize pilot plant systems while driving process improvements.
?? Perform mass balances and analyze process data to improve recoveries, efficiencies, and product quality.
?? Develop technical documentation including SOPs, process flow diagrams (PFDs), and test reports.
?? Collaborate with engineering, operations, and external partners to support process development and commercialization.
?? Promote a strong culture of safety, environmental stewardship, and operational excellence.
What We're Looking For
? Bachelor's degree in Chemical, Metallurgical, or Materials Engineering (advanced degree preferred)
? 3–7 years of experience in hydrometallurgy, chemical processing, or process R&D
? Experience with pilot plant operations and process scale-up
? Knowledge of rare earth separation technologies such as solvent extraction and precipitation preferred
? Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills
? Familiarity with PFDs, P&IDs, SCADA, or DCS systems is a plus

Ready to help shape the future of critical minerals?

USA Rare Earth is building a fully domestic mine-to-magnet supply chain, securing the critical materials needed for next-generation technologies and U.S. manufacturing. You'll work alongside industry experts in a fast-paced, innovative environment where your contributions will directly impact the future of rare earth processing in America.