Site Materials and Inventory Coordinator - Contract/1099

Production Operator

Covington, Covington, GA

Ascend Elements is a fast-growing organization that is revolutionizing the production of lithium-ion battery materials for electric vehicles. Recognized as a climate technology leader, the company elevates the value of recycled elements and engineers’ sustainable battery materials to support the global clean-energy transition. The company’s patented Hydro-to-Cathode™ direct precursor synthesis technology produces new, sustainable cathode materials from spent lithium-ion batteries more efficiently than traditional methods, resulting in improved performance and lower carbon emissions. Ascend Elements is taking sustainability in the lithium-ion battery industry to a higher level.

Production Operator is responsible for operating battery material manufacturing equipment. Additional responsibilities include conducting quality checks, engaging in basic troubleshooting and equipment maintenance throughout the production process, and collecting qualifying products and packages for shipment.

Job Core Responsibilities

• Ensure that all work is performed in compliance with Company Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and all local, state and federal regulations regarding safety, health, and the environment.

• Communicate with Shift Leader regarding safety, production, quality or any other operational issues. Actively participates in pre-shift meetings to assist in the development of individual work plans.

• Perform manufacturing tasks related to the recycling of batteries and the production of NMC cathode powder. Includes mechanical disassembly of battery packs and modules, operating and controlling mechanical shredder, vibratory sieve, and metals separation machines.

• Perform cleaning and routine preventative maintenance on heavy production machines

• Learns and follows safety regulations and wear the prescribed personal protective equipment

• Operate material handling equipment, such as forklift, drum dollies, hoists, and experienced using basic hand and power tools,

• Complete and accurately record data such as temperature of equipment, hours of operations, raw material lot numbers, process and reaction conditions, and process yields in accordance with good documentation practices.

• Maintain a clean and productive area by ensuring that equipment and work area is cleaned after use and the equipment is maintained per the preventative maintenance schedule.

• Assist with maintaining adequate supplies to ensure team has necessary supplies available to complete project work.

• Weigh, measure, and check raw materials/productions to ensure batches manufactured contain proper ingredients and quantities and that accurate inventory is maintained.

• Follows and abides by all EH&S policies, practices, and procedures in association with department specific responsibilities.

• Other duties as assigned

Additional Responsibilities:

Be committed to and support the EHS management process to obtain the ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 certification as well as participate in system standards and practices in its compliance and commitment to policies, objectives, operational controls, documentation, system guidelines, and others that the organization subscribes to as mandatory.

Will participate in all EHS aspects, including reporting hazards, incidents, and injury/illness without fear of reprisal.

Attend an Environment, Health, and Safety Orientation program appropriate to their work environment.

Follow 6S step-by-step methodology to maintain orderly workspaces and resources thereby enhancing productivity and safety.

Education: High school diploma and minimum of 3+ years of applicable production experience or post High School education and 1+ years production experience

Skills:

-Attention to detail, capable of understanding and following verbal and written instructions

– Hands on aptitude with mechanical process equipment

– Ability to perform basic math including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division

– Effective interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills to drive tasks to completion

Physical Requirements:

Capable of wearing task specific personal protective equipment which may include dust mask, air purifying respirator (i.e., half and/or full faced), safety shoes, gloves, safety glasses, and ear protection.

Capable of meeting OSHA standards for manual lifting guidelines: < 50lbs

While performing the duties of this job it is required to stand, walk, and use hands to operate objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands or arms; climb, balance, stoop, kneel, or crouch when necessary for job activity.

Ability to stand and/or walk for extended periods.

Must be able to work in a variety of weather conditions and temperatures.

What we offer you:

-A competitive salary

-Full Benefits

Job Type: Full-time

APPLY TODAY!

Ascend Elements is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Senior Process Engineer

Westborough, Westborough, MA

Senior Process Engineer

Ascend Elements is revolutionizing the production of lithium-ion battery materials by establishing a clean and sustainable supply chain using recycled feedstock. Its patented Hydro-to-Cathode™ technology directly synthesizes new cathode materials from spent lithium-ion cells more efficiently than traditional methods, resulting in reduced cost, improved performance, and lower GHG emissions. The results are lower-cost, better-performing batteries with fewer discarded in landfills, a cleaner manufacturing process, and a truly sustainable closed-loop circular battery economy. Ascend Elements’ headquarters are located in the Greater Boston Area, MA in the United States, with multiple satellite sites in the States and Europe. Ascend Elements is taking the lithium-ion battery industry to a higher level.

Job Description: We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Process Engineer to join our dynamic team. In this position, the employee will be responsible for leading the development, verification, and optimization of hydrometallurgical processes. The position will be located at the headquarters in Westborough, MA, United States, or as determined upon further discussion with the reporting supervisor.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Lead the development and scale-up of hydrometallurgical processes on pilot and production scales, with a focus on improving metal recovery and reducing cost and environmental impact.

Identify potential process risks, propose and evaluate solutions to mitigate the risks.

Evaluate process capability, improve process control, and deliver samples to customers.

Conduct detailed process simulations and modeling to predict process behaviors under various scenarios.

Develop, prepare, and provide detailed production and process guidelines, including standard operating procedures (SOPs), process flow details, safety, and quality standards.

Improve and troubleshoot products, equipment, and process issues during production.

Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers and technical staff.

Maintain appropriate records and reports to support GMP.

Additional duties, authority, and responsibilities may be assigned from time to time by the supervisor, consistent with the Employee’s position. The Employee shall use their best efforts, judgment, and energy to improve and advance the business and interests of the Company in a manner consistent with the duties of their position and with the Company’s ethical, legal, and professional standards.

Education: BS in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Metallurgical Engineering, or a related field; advanced degree is preferred.

Education and Other Requirements:

5+ years industry process development/engineering experience.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a deep understanding of chemical processes and mechanical operations in a hydrometallurgical context.

Expertise in process development, control, and scale-up. Proficient in using statistical software for process analysis, such as JMP.

Sound understanding of chemical processes and their scale-up.

Demonstrated leadership skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

High sense of responsibility, excellent coordination ability, communication ability, and strong pressure resistance.

Detailed record-keeping and statistical analysis skills.

Knowledge of the current state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery material production processes.

Commitment to environmental health and safety best practices.

Proficient in MS Office tools such as Word, Excel, Outlook, Visio, and Project.

Strong communication skills in both writing and speaking.

Ascend Elements is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Site Materials and Inventory Coordinator – Contract/1099

Covington, Covington, GA

Ascend Elements is revolutionizing the production of lithium-ion battery materials by establishing a clean and sustainable supply chain using recycled feedstock. Its patented Hydro-to-Cathode™ technology directly synthesizes new cathode materials from spent lithium-ion cells more efficiently than traditional methods, resulting in reduced cost, improved performance, and lowered GHG emissions. The results are lower cost, better performance batteries with fewer discarded in landfill, a cleaner manufacturing process, and a truly sustainable closed-loop circular battery economy. Ascend Elements is taking the lithium-ion battery industry to a higher level.

The Position of Site Materials and Inventory Coordinator calls for a meticulous and organized individual to collaborate with our team at our site in Covington, GA. This critical role will be responsible for managing the Organization, recording, receiving, inspection, and inventory management of materials stored at our facilities and possible offsite locations.

Duties/Responsibilities:

Verify and organize current equipment and materials from current and past projects: Per a scope of work and under minimal supervision, access, identify, quantify, organize, record and store in suitable environment for appropriate preservation, the current accumulation of equipment and materials that are were accumulated and delivered to Projects and expansions of the A-E Covington facility. The Goal is to have a verifiable and trackable inventory and description of all equipment in storage and not currently utilized in production at this facility and / or certain offsite storage facilities.

Materials Receiving: Receive incoming materials, accurately verify quantities against purchase orders, and inspect for any damages or discrepancies. Collaborate closely with suppliers and logistics partners to ensure timely and efficient receipt of materials.

Inventory Control: Maintain accurate inventory records using electronic systems or manual logs. Monitor inventory levels, track equipment issues, and identify shortages, overages, or excess inventory. Conduct regular cycle counts and coordinate with procurement to reconcile any discrepancies.

Quality Assurance: Collaborate with the quality control team to ensure that received materials meet the required specifications and quality standards. Manage non-conforming materials by initiating appropriate actions, such as returning or rejecting them, and coordinating replacements with suppliers. Develop a system of OS&D and resolution.

Documentation and Reporting: Prepare and maintain accurate documentation related to material receiving, inspection, and inventory transactions. Generate reports on inventory levels, stock movements, and consumption patterns. Provide regular updates to management and other stakeholders.

Safety and Compliance: Ensure compliance with all applicable safety regulations and internal policies during the materials receiving and inventory control processes. Adhere to proper handling, storage, and disposal procedures for hazardous materials.

Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities to optimize receiving and inventory processes, such as implementing automation, barcode scanning, or other efficiency-enhancing technologies. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to improve process flows and reduce lead times.

Supplier Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers. Subcontractors, Communicate effectively regarding delivery schedules, quality issues, and any other related matters.

Problem-solving and analytical skills to troubleshoot inventory discrepancies and implement process improvements.

Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.

Required Skills/Abilities:

Previous experience in materials receiving, inventory control, or warehouse operations in a chemical processing or manufacturing environment.

Knowledge of applicable safety regulations and best practices for handling chemicals and hazardous materials.

Proficient computer skills, including experience with inventory management software or ERP systems.

Strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask and prioritize work effectively.

Meticulous mindset with high accuracy in data entry and recordkeeping.

Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, for effective coordination with suppliers, internal teams, and management.

Ability to accurately sort, count, and verify items received.

Basic understanding of Inventory and warehouse procedures.

Good critical thinking skills.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and/or inventory software to maintain records, input data, and create reports.

Experience in shipping/receiving hazardous goods is a plus.

Education and Experience:

High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

5+ years warehouse shipping/receiving experience.

Physical Requirements:

Must be able to traverse distribution warehouse and access a variety of storage spaces and shelving units by stretching, squatting, and reaching.

Must be able to lift to 25 pounds at a time.

Must be able to work in a variety of weather conditions and temperatures in the warehouse and on the loading dock.

Chemical Plant Production Operator

Hopkinsville, Hopkinsville, KY

Ascend Elements is revolutionizing the production of lithium-ion battery materials by establishing a clean and sustainable supply chain using recycled feedstock. Its patented Hydro-to-Cathode™ technology directly synthesizes new cathode materials from spent lithium-ion cells more efficiently than traditional methods, resulting in reduced cost, improved performance, and lowered GHG emissions. The results are lower cost, better performance batteries with fewer discarded in landfill, a cleaner manufacturing process, and a truly sustainable closed-loop circular battery economy. Ascend Elements is taking the lithium-ion battery industry to a higher level.

As a Chemical Plant Operator, you will participate in the process of manufacturing NMC cathode precursor materials, while operating various equipment. You will be working with chemicals and powder while wearing all required PPE, following standard operating procedures.

The position schedule: 12 Hour Shifts Day and/or Night

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

Equipment Monitoring / Technical

Weigh, measure, and check raw materials/productions to ensure batches manufactured contain proper ingredients and quantities and that accurate inventory is maintained.

Operates automatic and manual chemical process equipment of varying complexity in accordance w/ operating procedures, including programmable, logic control devices.

Responsible for complex liquid / chemical batch manufacturing, which also requires familiarity of a variety of production machines that serve as either internal suppliers or customers to the chemical operator. Equipment includes but not limited to mixers, agitators, pumps, differential pressure cells & gauges, valves, automated and manual delivery systems.

Utilizing strong attention to detail and multi-tasking, responsible for quality control of product, which includes frequent in-process and final product quality testing. Respond to out-of-control points by either following established action plans for process disruptions or adjusting equipment as appropriate for equipment disruptions.

Required to identify and complete preventive maintenance at a basic level. Handle first-line troubleshooting such as equipment malfunctions, computer program issues, setting adjustments; involving appropriate other experts as needed.

Perform manufacturing tasks related to the production of NMC cathode precursor materials.

Includes operating and controlling mechanical powder handling equipment, chemical mixers, reactors, dryers, bulk unloaders, emptying and filling supersacks, etc.

Following Procedures

Ensure that all work is performed in compliance with Company Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and all local, state, and federal regulations regarding safety, health, and the environment.

Maintain a clean and productive area by ensuring that equipment and work area is cleaned after use and the equipment is maintained per the preventative maintenance schedule.

Communication/Documentation

Communicate with Shift Leader regarding safety, production, quality, or any other operational issues. Actively participates in pre-shift meetings to assist in the development of individual work plans.

Complete and accurately record data such as temperature of equipment, hours of operations, raw material lot numbers, process and reaction conditions, and process yields in accordance with good documentation practices.

Employee Health and Safety

The employee is committed to and must support the EHS management process to obtain the ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 certification as well as participate in system standards and practices in its compliance and commitment to policies, objectives, operational controls, documentation, system guidelines, and others that the organization subscribes to as mandatory.

Will participate in all EHS aspects, including reporting hazards, incidents, and injury/illness without fear of reprisal.

Must attend an Environment, Health, and Safety Orientation program appropriate to their work environment.

The employee must follow 6S step-by-step methodology to maintain orderly workspaces and resources thereby enhancing productivity and safety.

General

Operate material handling equipment, such as forklift, drum dollies, hoists, etc.

Assist with maintaining adequate supplies to ensure team has necessary supplies available to complete project work.

Other duties as assigned.

Skills/Physical Requirements:

Attention to detail, capable of understanding and following verbal and written instructions.

Hands on aptitude with mechanical and chemical process equipment

Ability to perform basic math including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

Effective interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills to drive tasks to completion.

Capable of wearing task specific personal protective equipment which may include dust mask, air purifying respirator (i.e., half and/or full faced), safety shoes, gloves, safety glasses, and ear protection.

Capable of meeting OSHA standards for manual lifting guidelines: < 50lbs

While performing the duties of this job it is required to stand, walk, and use hands to operate objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands or arms; climb, balance, stoop, kneel, or crouch when necessary for job activity.

Ability to stand and/or walk for extended periods.

Must be able to work in a variety of weather conditions and temperatures.

Education/Experience:

High school diploma and minimum of 3+ years of applicable production experience or post-high school education and 1 plus years production experience.

APPLY TODAY!

Senior Manager, Learning and Development

Westborough, Westborough, MA

Ascend Elements is revolutionizing the production of lithium-ion battery materials by establishing a clean and sustainable supply chain using recycled feedstock. Its patented Hydro-to-Cathode™ technology directly synthesizes new cathode materials from spent lithium-ion cells more efficiently than traditional methods, resulting in reduced cost, improved performance, and lowered GHG emissions. The results are lower cost, better performance batteries with fewer discarded in landfill, a cleaner manufacturing process, and a truly sustainable closed-loop circular battery economy. Ascend Elements is taking the lithium-ion battery industry to a higher level.

We’re hiring a Senior Manager, Learning and Development who will develop programs to build human capital potential and a strong employee development culture. This candidate will direct the design, planning, and implementation of corporate training programs aligned with the objectives and strategy of the company. Collaborates with functional management teams to assess ongoing and future training and development needs as well as effectiveness of established programs. Facilitates the development of training programs and identify areas for improvement. Develops a program delivery schedule that provides training as needed, ongoing and/or ad hoc. Provides engaging communications about program information to encourage participation and highlight the value and benefits of training. Approves new training techniques and suggests enhancements to existing training programs. Oversees and establishes relationships with vendors to provide additional outside training programs. Manages and develops training coordinators and or SME professionals. Ensures a robust Learning Management System is utilized and managed for maintaining current training needs, reporting and compliance.

Areas of training needs include but are not limited to Regulatory, Environment & Compliance, Leadership skills and general HR related topics. Oversite and selection of Instructor-Led Training, Organizational Development (OD), Training Delivery, Training Management, Training Needs Analysis, Training Program Administration, Training Program Development, Vendor Management, Design Training Materials and Training & eLearning Software.

DUTIES AND RESPONSABILITIES:

In coordination with functional leadership, map out annual training plans for all employees

Manages training programs (outsourced and/or in-house)

Ensures ongoing review of organization-wide training needs assessment and identifies skills or knowledge gaps. Creates viable plans to improve the training needs.

Leads the assessment of instructional effectiveness and determines the impact of training on employee skills and KPI’s.

Ensures curriculum database and training records are up to date.

Identifies problems and opportunities such as operational changes or industry developments that training could improve.

Selects and manages LMS vendors third-party training service providers.

Prepares and implements training budget and ensures that training milestones and goals are met while adhering to approved training budget.

Develops and maintains organizational communications such as intranet bulletin boards and newsletters to ensure employees have knowledge of training and development events and resources.

Conducts follow-up studies of all completed training to evaluate and measure results.

Modifies programs as needed.

Exemplifies the desired culture and philosophies of the organization.

Works effectively as a team member with other members of management and the HR staff.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:

Experience in leading the function of business’s learning and development programs with specific experience in Industrial Materials manufacturing.

Exceptional ability to move from conceptual needs to applicable training and development programs.

Creates business case presentations for operational improvement through learning and development deliverables.

Training Program Administration

Organizational needs assessment pertaining to skill development.

Ability to function in a demanding environment.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills including presentation.

Budget management

Vendor selection

Knowledge of LMS and HR systems

Thorough understanding of training processes.

Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.

Adept with a variety of multimedia training platforms and methods.

Knowledge of training methodologies and e-learning platforms

Bachelor’s degree in L&D, Human Resources Management

7-10 years’ experience designing and implementing employee development programs.

Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP) credential preferred.

APPLY TODAY!

Quality Engineer

Hopkinsville, Hopkinsville, KY

The Quality Engineer supporting Ascend Elements APEX 1 facility in Hopkinsville, KY will be responsible for the overall quality of a specific part of the site production process.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Monitor daily production quality performance using SPC (Statistical Process Control).

Initiate and lead RCI (root cause investigations) on non-conforming production results using 8D and Six Sigma methodology with a cross functional team.

Report weekly and monthly SPC and process quality performance for internal and external customers.

Update and maintain SAP Quality Management views.

Lead change management initiatives related to quality improvements.

Participate in establishing quality parameters and systems for new product launch.

Participate in vendor, customer, and internal audits.

Maintain customer specific PPAP and control plans.

Participate in PFMEA reviews.

Analyze quality and production data and propose and lead continuous improvement.

Adherence to established ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 standards and policies.

Conduct Internal, External, and Layered Process Audits.

Identify problem areas and follow up with countermeasures and solutions.

Schedule, review, and document dock audits in the automated audit system.

Respond to customer inquiries and complaints.

Develop, submit, participate in the Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP) and Production Part Approval Process (PPAP), for new or existing product(s) to meet APEX 1 requirements.

Coordinate pre-launch production trial run process monitoring.

Serve as administrator of calibration system, which includes performing calibrations, and scheduling.

Perform test as requested for production support.

Supplier product quality monitoring – assist / submit Supplier Corrective Actions.

Oversee the disposition of the non-conforming area.

Develop and update quality system procedures.

Generate process capability analysis.

Effectively coordinate and provide timely completion of supplier corrective action activities.

Comply with all company guidelines, policies, and procedures.

Prepares reports by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing data and making recommendations.

Determines quality improvement parameters by identifying statistical methods relevant to manufacturing processes.

Respond to ongoing non-conformities, review for disposition and materials release.

Other duties as assigned.

The employee is committed to and must support the EHS management process to obtain the ISO 14001 and ISO 45001 certification as well as participate in system standards and practices in its compliance and commitment to policies, objectives, operational controls, documentation, system guidelines, and others that the organization subscribes to as mandatory.

Will participate in all EHS aspects, including reporting hazards, incidents, and injury/illness without fear of reprisal.

Must attend an Environment, Health, and Safety Orientation program appropriate to their work environment.

The employee must follow 6S step-by-step methodology to maintain orderly workspaces and resources thereby enhancing productivity and safety.

Essential Skills

Working knowledge of ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 standards and policies experience strongly preferred.

Knowledge of statistical techniques and various types of testing instruments.

Working knowledge of the relationships and roles of internal/external customers and suppliers, including their impact on product and services.

Customer quality assurance experience.

Chemical industry experience preferred, but not required.

Working knowledge of inspection and testing techniques, including various types of sampling plans.

Ability to read and interpret blueprints (drawings) GD&T.

Understanding of the audit process including types of audits, planning, preparation, execution, reporting, and follow up.

Ability to analyze and understand data produced by statistical process control (SPC).

Ability to plan, control, and assure product and process quality in accordance with company’s quality principles.

Understanding of problem solving and quality improvement tools and techniques.

Ability to work well in a multi-functional team environment, portray the company in a professional manner, work non-regular hours as needed.

Ability to safeguard the confidentiality of the company, customer, and employee information.

Commit to and participate in activities for continuous improvement.

Statutory and Regulatory requirements.

Core Competencies

Ability to prioritize, handle multiple tasks, customer demands and flexibility in job assignments.

Strong commitment to safety, environment, workplace organization and housekeeping.

Good communication and negotiation skills.

Very good social competence.

Good verbal and written communication skills.

Able to work non-standard weekly schedule including off shifts.

Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, or Engineering with minimum 2-5 years of experience in quality and manufacturing environment, chemical industry or equivalent on the job experience.

Prior experience and knowledge of ISO 9001 and IATF 16949 standards.

Ability to use Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint to compile and present information.

Knowledgeable in SPC.

Familiar with JMP and SAP software.

American Society for Quality (ASQ) certification(s) desired.

Physical Requirements:

Physical working conditions are consistent with a typical office environment.

Must be able to work in a manufacturing environment production facility where there is exposure to (noise, heat, cold, dust, fumes).

Capable of wearing task specific personal protective equipment which may include dust mask, respirator, safety shoes, gloves, safety glasses, and ear protection.

Capable of meeting OSHA standards for manual lifting guidelines: < 50lbs

While performing the duties of this job it is required to stand, walk, and use hands to operate objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands or arms; climb, balance, stoop, kneel, or crouch when necessary for job activity.

Ability to stand and/or walk for extended periods (minimum of eight hours).

Must be able to work in a variety of weather conditions and temperatures.

Thank you.

Position located in Hopkinsville, KY

May require up to 25% of business travel.

We offer a competitive salary and full benefits package.

Read about Ascend Elements:

https://ascendelements.com

APPLY TODAY!

Site Materials and Inventory Coordinator – Contract/1099

Covington, Covington, GA

Our Hiring Process

Benefits and Culture

Who We Are

Production Operator

Covington, Covington, GA

Senior Process Engineer

Westborough, Westborough, MA

Site Materials and Inventory Coordinator – Contract/1099

Covington, Covington, GA

Chemical Plant Production Operator

Hopkinsville, Hopkinsville, KY

Senior Manager, Learning and Development

Westborough, Westborough, MA

Quality Engineer

Hopkinsville, Hopkinsville, KY