Lab Manager

Cyclic Materials is building a resilient circular supply chain for rare earth elements and other critical materials. Through our fully integrated proprietary technology platform, we recover rare earths from end-of-life products and transform them into high-purity materials used to produce new permanent magnets. These magnets are critical to the modern economy, underpinning AI, automotive, e-mobility, electronics, semiconductor, energy, defense, and other advanced manufacturing sectors.

Founded in 2021, Cyclic Materials has rapidly become a category leader in rare earth recovery, achieving commercial operations in less than five years. We currently operate facilities in Ontario and Arizona, with further expansion underway in South Carolina. Backed by investment accounts advised by T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc., alongside strategic investors including Microsoft, Amazon, Hitachi Ventures, BMW i Ventures, Jaguar Land Rover’s InMotion fund, Energy Impact Partners, ArcTern Ventures, and Fifth Wall, we are scaling quickly and building the industrial backbone required to meet growing global demand for a secure and sustainable supply of rare earths.

We have established an extensive and growing network of commercial partnerships with global industry leaders such as Solvay, Vattenfall, Lime, and VACUUMSCHMELZE, enabling the rapid deployment of recycled rare earth materials into real-world supply chains. Joining Cyclic Materials means tackling complex and exciting challenges at scale alongside a team committed to strong execution and measurable impact. If you are motivated by building critical infrastructure and advancing the circular economy, join us and help accelerate the growth of rare earth recycling.

Position Overview:

We are seeking a Lab Manager to lead our hydrometallurgical analytical laboratory. This hands-on role combines supervision of lab analysts with analytical work supporting commercial plant operations and R&D. You will be responsible for reliable results, effective daily operations, and a team that can respond to changing priorities.

Responsibilities:

• Supervise and mentor lab analysts and technicians, manage schedules and workflow, and provide hands-on support when needed.
• Perform and oversee analytical testing, troubleshoot methods and equipment, review results, and communicate findings through technical reports.
• Maintain SOPs, QA/QC protocols, training materials, and laboratory practices aligned with ISO/IEC 17025, GLP, and applicable safety and environmental requirements.
• Manage the LIMS, analytical data integrity, equipment maintenance, and supplies to keep the laboratory operating reliably.
• Support method validation and method detection limit studies, and improve analytical processes with plant and R&D teams.
• Work day or night shifts when required to support operations.

The laboratory uses techniques and equipment including ICP, XRF, atomic absorption spectroscopy, carbon and sulfur analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, particle size analysis, pH measurement, and filtration.

Qualifications:

• An MSc or PhD in analytical chemistry, chemical engineering, or a related field is preferred. A relevant bachelor’s degree or technical diploma combined with substantial industrial laboratory experience will also be considered.
• At least five years in a lead, supervisory, or managerial role, with direct responsibility for laboratory staff.
• Significant hands-on analytical chemistry experience in an industrial or commercial laboratory, including relevant instrument operation and technical troubleshooting.
• Experience managing a LIMS, with a solid working knowledge of ISO/IEC 17025, GLP, and analytical data quality.
• Ability to interpret complex results, prepare clear technical reports, and work with plant and R&D teams.

Ten or more years of analytical chemistry experience, particularly with metals and complex aqueous samples such as rare earth elements, transition metals, and impurities, is a strong asset.

Why You Will Love Cyclic Materials  

• At Cyclic Materials, we're dedicated to supporting our workforce on their unique career journey
• We offer a competitive compensation package including Health and Dental coverage, RRSP (Canada)/ 401K (USA) contributions and a generous paid time off program that lets you recharge
• We value diversity and are committed to maintaining a workplace where everyone is respected and recognized for their contributions

The base compensation offered is determined based on the successful candidate’s relevant experience, skills, and competencies and considers internal equity.

As an Equal Opportunity employer, Cyclic Materials is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where all individuals have an opportunity to succeed. If you require accommodation at any stage of the interview process, please email HumanResources@cyclicmaterials.earth. Applicants for roles in Canada or the United States must be authorized to work in the applicable country without current or future sponsorship from Cyclic Materials, including for an H1-B visa, F-1 visa (OPT), TN, L1-A visa, or any other non-immigrant status.

To all applicants, your interest and effort are sincerely appreciated. While we thank everyone for their application, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.