Position Overview:We are seeking a Manager to lead the Computational Materials Development team within the broader Magnet Technology group. The Manager is responsible for defining the long-term roadmap for computational materials capabilities, including Integrated Computational Materials Engineering (ICME), thermodynamic and kinetic modeling, materials informatics, machine learning, atomistic simulations, and process modeling workflows. The ideal candidate combines deep expertise in computational materials science with proven success building and managing technical teams in an industrial R&D environment. Working closely with process development, materials characterization, manufacturing, quality, and external research partners, this individual will ensure that computational tools and insights accelerate innovation, improve manufacturability, and support strategic business objectives. This is a rare opportunity to play a key role in returning an essential manufacturing capability to the USA.
Position Responsibilities:- Oversee the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of an Integrated Computational Materials Engineering (ICME) framework supporting alloy development, process optimization, and manufacturing scale-up.
- Develop process-structure-property models and databases, and use these tools to design and optimize next-generation rare earth magnets.
- Manage and develop a team of computational materials scientists and engineers, including hiring, scheduling, and performance evaluations.
- Foster a culture of technical excellence, innovation, collaboration, accountability, and continuous learning.
- Work with process development and R&D teams to translate business objectives and technology development needs into actionable computational research and development activities.
- Communicate technical findings, recommendations, and strategic plans to stakeholders ranging from engineers and technicians to senior leadership.
- Lead technical interactions with universities and other strategic research partners.
- Represent MP Materials through technical presentations, industry conferences, research collaborations, and professional organizations.
- Other duties as assigned.
Basic Qualifications:- M.S. or Ph.D. in Materials Science & Engineering, Metallurgy, Physics, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
- 5+ years of hands-on experience with computational materials development in an industrial setting using at least one of the following methodologies: CALPHAD, machine learning/informatics, and/or atomistic techniques.
- Experience with programming (Python preferred).
- Experience managing direct reports and projects.
- Familiarity with metallurgical manufacturing processes and materials characterization methods.
- Experience leading technical development projects, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple concurrent projects.
- Deep understanding of materials structure-property-processing relationships, thermodynamics, and kinetics.
- Agile researcher, adept at identifying untested questions about materials and the interactions between processing, structure, and performance.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with ability to effectively communicate with a range of personnel from senior leaders to technicians.
Desired Qualities:- Experience with rare earth materials and permanent magnets.
- Demonstrated creativity and problem-solving in driving the development of innovative solutions to materials challenges.
- Strong skills in analyzing experimental data using tools such as Python, MATLAB, or statistical software to draw actionable insights and guide decision-making.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Leader by example, action-oriented, ability to identify and solve problems, lifelong learner.
