Niron Magnetics is a venture-backed start-up developing the only known magnetic material with the potential to displace widely used rare earth permanent magnets. These rare earth permanent magnets are found in electric motors, generators, sensors, actuators, and a variety of everyday machines. Unfortunately, the mining and refining of these materials incur harsh social and environmental costs.

Niron Magnetics has developed a magnetic material that is free of critical materials (including rare earth elements), which eliminates the environmental damage caused by their use. Niron is comprised of a team of engineers and scientists with a desire to make a positive impact in our community.

About the Position

Niron is seeking a Production Technician for its Pilot Production facility, located in Minneapolis, MN. This individual will operate equipment responsible for processing nanoparticle slurries and powders for Pilot Production.

Primary Roles & Responsibilities:

• Perform water-based chemical reactions involving nanoparticles at large scales
• Operate equipment to process nanoparticle slurries and powders according to experimental plans and SOPs
• Gather, analyze, and present data to bring conclusions to Production Engineering team
• Assist Production Engineering team in analyzing product and process limitations and problems, facilitating root cause analysis, then implementing solutions
• Support process documentation creation and maintenance, including SOPs, work instructions, and preventative maintenance procedures
• Keep accurate and complete records of experiments
• Follow common chemistry lab and chemical hygiene protocols as the role requires using hazardous materials, lab equipment and pilot machinery
• Maintain a clean work environment and equipment, and participate in plant 6S activities
• Work with a high degree of attention to workplace safety

Basic Qualifications:

• Technical 2-year degree or greater in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials engineering, or related field
• 5+ years’ experience in a laboratory or production environment
• Hands on experience operating lab, pilot and/or production equipment
• Ability to occasionally lift and carry heavy equipment, up to 50 lb.
• Ability to self-direct and meet deadlines
• Strong interpersonal, prioritization, and organizational skills
• Experience with Microsoft Office suite, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials engineering, or related field
• Experience working with nanoparticles or nanomaterials in a laboratory or production environment
• Experience or familiarity with particle mixing, separation, and drying techniques
• Experience with ISO in manufacturing environment with understanding of the importance of following standard operating procedures (SOPs)
• Familiarity with SPC software

Compensation:

• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Equity position in Niron via stock option grant
• 401k plan with company match
• Mental healthcare support including therapeutic care
• Paid vacation, sick time, and holidays
• Short- and long-term disability and life insurance
• Experience in a fun, high-performing, venture-backed startup