Pilot Operations Manager

Vulcan Elements

Research Triangle Park, NC, United States
On-site
Pilot production leadership
Process engineering and scale-up
Material coordination and logistics
The Pilot Operations Manager is responsible for end-to-end execution of pilot-scale manufacturing for advanced rare earth materials, serving as the critical link between development and full-scale production

Job Summary

  • The Pilot Operations Manager is responsible for end-to-end execution of pilot-scale manufacturing for advanced rare earth materials, serving as the critical link between development and full-scale production.
  • The leader will establish disciplined, scalable operations while partnering closely with development, commercial, quality, and EHS teams to enable rapid iteration, material qualification, and successful transition to production.
  • Lead, coach, and develop a team of technicians; establish clear expectations for execution, safety, and documentation; build a culture of accountability, precision, and continuous improvement.

Matching Summary

The Pilot Operations Manager is responsible for end-to-end execution of pilot-scale manufacturing for advanced rare earth materials, serving as the critical link between development and full-scale production.

Skills & Requirements

Must-have

  • Pilot production leadership
  • Process engineering and scale-up
  • Material coordination and logistics
  • Operational excellence and scheduling
  • Quality and process control
  • Team leadership

Nice-to-have

  • Mission focus
  • Technical excellence
  • Transparency
  • Cross-functional leadership
  • Continuous improvement culture

Key Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
  • 5+ years of experience in advanced materials, pilot production, or manufacturing environments
  • Proven experience leading pilot or production teams
  • Hands-on experience working in pilot-scale or development environments
  • Demonstrated experience in process engineering, pilot line operations, or scaling technologies
  • Strong track record of implementing SOP-driven operations, KPI management, and production documentation systems
  • Experience managing material flow, production scheduling, and cross-functional coordination
  • Must be a U.S. Person

Work Rights

Must be a U.S. Person

Tailored Resume

Cover Letter