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 Staff Machining Engineer for its Pilot Production facility, located in Minneapolis, MN. This individual will be involved in many aspects of machining Niron’s magnets.

The Staff Machining Engineer will be responsible for advancing the methods and efficiency of machining FeN permanent magnets through the identification of best equipment, processes, tooling (including coatings), fixturing and work holding, and coolants. You will work closely with the Machinist and the Finishing engineering teams to design trials, process materials, and characterize the resulting magnets.

Interpretation of the results will culminate in a proposal to further improve the quality and efficiency of the machining processes. The role will include hands-on processing of materials and fixturing. You will be responsible for transferring developed processes into production including process documentation and training of Machinists.

Niron is a fast-paced environment requiring a very collaborative approach to work. A team-based mentality and agility is important. We are looking for someone who is passionate about creating new, world changing technology that enables Niron to manufacture permanent magnets while also protecting the environment.

Primary Roles & Responsibilities:

• Responsible for advancing the performance of iron nitride magnet machining processes through methods and tooling innovations.
• Responsible for specifying, performing, analyzing, and reporting results of trials, and proposing next steps.
• Responsible for designing, testing and implementing improvements in work holding.
• Responsible for documenting processes in the form of Work Instructions and Forms.
• Responsible for training to developed Work Instructions.
• Responsible for transferring approved processes into full-scale production.
• Responsible for performing all duties according to Niron’s Safety Program.

Basic Qualifications:

• Science or engineering background in a relevant field, i.e. BS, MS in materials science or engineering, mechanical engineering, powder metallurgy, or related field.
• Minimum BS/MS/PHD and 8/6/4 years of industry experience or a similar combination of education and industry experience.
• Strong background and hands-on experience in machining and grinding of metal components.
• Proficient with CAD design in SolidWorks or other modeling software applications.
• Proficient with DOE and statistical and data visualization software e.g. JMP, Minitab, SQL
• Flexibility to adapt to changing roles and responsibilities in accordance with the needs of a growing, fast paced, high-tech startup.
• Collaborative mind-set, with strong work ethic and drive to succeed.
• Strong communication skills with ability to concisely convey the meaning of data and a diligent commitment to record keeping.
• Ability to self-direct and meet deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proven project management skills.
• Experience with machining of green compacts.
• Experience working with and characterizing magnetic materials.
• Experience leading new materials manufacturing processes and transferring products from pilot to production through stage gate approach.
• Experience with 3D printing and prototype development.

Compensation:

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