Job Description

Flash Metals USA

is a pioneering clean-tech industrial company based in Houston, Texas, focused on sustainable domestic processing and recovery of rare earth elements and other critical metals using its proprietary Flash Joule Heating (FJH) technology.

As the company scales its U.S. operations, Flash Metals USA is expanding its in-house analytical laboratory capabilities to support engineering, process development, and future commercial facilities.

The Metal Characterization Specialist

supports analytical testing of metal-bearing brines, solids, and processed materials within Flash Metals USA's analytical laboratory in Anahuac, Texas.

The position plays a critical role in sample preparation, instrument operation, quality control, and data generation that directly supports engineering, R&D, and process development teams.

This role is well suited to an analytical chemistry professional who is detail-oriented, safety-focused, and comfortable working in a regulated laboratory environment.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Perform quantitative metals analysis using ICP-OES and/or ICP-MS in accordance with validated methods and laboratory quality standards. Prepare liquid and solid samples for analysis, including digestion, dilution, and method-specific preparation techniques. Operate, troubleshoot, and support maintenance of analytical instrumentation including XRF, XRD, UV-Vis, and related tools. Maintain calibration records, QA/QC logs, performance checks, and analytical documentation. Review and validate analytical results for accuracy, precision, repeatability, and compliance. Support engineering and process development teams by providing timely, high-quality analytical data. Coordinate sample intake, logging, chain-of-custody, tracking, and data lifecycle management. Assist with the development and continuous improvement of analytical workflows, SOPs, and testing protocols. Support audits, inspections, and internal reviews through accurate documentation and data stewardship. Follow all laboratory safety procedures and promote a strong safety culture.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required

Bachelor's degree or higher in Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Materials Science, or a related field. Minimum of two years' hands-on experience performing quantitative metals analysis using ICP-OES or ICP-MS. Strong experience preparing solid and liquid samples for analysis. Sound understanding of laboratory quality control, calibration, and data validation practices. Strong attention to detail and documentation discipline.

Preferred

Experience operating XRF, XRD, UV-Vis, or similar analytical instrumentation. Familiarity with transition metal or rare earth chemistry. Experience in metallurgical analysis, mineral processing, chemical processing, or industrial research laboratories. Ability to contribute to troubleshooting, workflow optimization, or method development initiatives.

Work Conditions & Requirements

U.S. citizenship is required due to federal contract and regulatory requirements. Must be based on-site in Anahuac, Texas. Employment is contingent on background checks, qualification verification, and regulatory eligibility. Role requires ongoing eligibility to work within federally regulated environments.

Why Join Flash Metals USA

This role offers the opportunity to contribute directly to advanced materials characterization and metal recovery technologies with real-world industrial impact. You'll work in a collaborative laboratory environment supporting cutting-edge clean-technology development and future commercial operations.

Flash Metals USA is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace and consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Pay: From $100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance
Work Location: In person