All Positions Archives | Ascend Elements

Unarmed Security Guard

Hopkinsville, KY

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.

Position Overview: Ascend Elements is seeking dedicated and professional Unarmed Security Guards to join our team at our Hopkinsville, KY location. The primary responsibility of this role is to ensure the safety and security of our employees, visitors, and property by monitoring and patrolling premises and handling any security incidents in a calm and efficient manner.

Key Responsibilities:

Patrol Premises: Conduct regular patrols of the facility, including the interior and exterior areas, to ensure a safe environment.

Monitor Surveillance Systems: Observe CCTV cameras and alarm systems, reporting any suspicious activities or security breaches promptly.

Access Control: Manage the entry and exit of employees, visitors, and contractors to maintain secure access to the premises.

Incident Reporting: Document and report any incidents, emergencies, or unusual occurrences accurately and promptly.

Emergency Response: Assist in emergency situations such as evacuations, medical incidents, or other crises, following established protocols.

Customer Service: Provide assistance and directions to visitors and staff members, ensuring a professional and courteous demeanor.

Compliance: Adhere to company policies, procedures, and regulations to maintain a secure and safe environment.

Communication: Maintain clear and concise communication with the security team and management regarding any security issues or updates.

Loss Prevention: Actively participate in efforts to prevent theft, vandalism, and other security threats.

Hazardous Material Awareness: Work closely with the Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) team to monitor and respond to any situations involving hazardous materials, ensuring appropriate safety measures are in place.

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.

Education/ Experience:

High School Diploma or GED: Required. Must be at least 18 years old.

Security Experience: Prior experience in security, law enforcement, military, or related field a plus.

Required Skills/Abilities

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Strong observational skills and attention to detail are critical.

Ability to handle stressful situations calmly and effectively, with good problem-solving skills.

Must always maintain a high level of professionalism and integrity.

Willingness to work various shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as required.

Must work in tandem with emergency responders to ensure coordinated and effective responses to any critical incidents.

Must be able to pass a background check.

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.

Additional Information:

This is a 24/7 facility, and security staff may be required to work a variety of shifts.

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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.

Human Resources Manager

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.

The Human Resources Manager will play a vital role in driving the HR strategy across all aspects of the employee lifecycle. Reporting to the Vice President, Human Resources, the HR Manager will be both strategic and operational, responsible for managing critical HR operational functions and ensuring a highly effective and efficient experience including compensation & benefits, workforce planning, performance management, employee relations, compliance, learning & development, and strategic initiatives. This role is crucial in enhancing scalable processes, fostering a positive workplace culture and ensuring delivery of HR strategies.

This is a hybrid position with an on-site component at our Westborough, MA offices.

Responsibilities:

Compensation & Benefits

Develop and manage salary structures, incentive plans, and job evaluation processes to ensure fair and competitive pay.

Manage administration of employee insurance plans, retirement programs, wellness initiatives, and perks that support employee well-being.

Proactively monitor the effectiveness of existing compensation and benefit practices through benchmarking; recommend changes that are cost effective and consistent with market trends and corporate objectives.

Act as a primary point of contact for compensation and benefit requests. Consult employees and business leaders on job evaluations, policy interpretations, benefit related questions and pay decisions.

Act as primary contact for benefit providers, brokers, and consultants to ensure quality service and optimal plan administration.

Performance Management

Establish performance evaluation process and feedback mechanisms that drive strong performance and enhance employee development.

Coach and develop managers to set and manage performance goals, provide feedback and develop their teams.

Identify training and development needs, develop skill-building workshops and programs as appropriate.

Employee Relations

Provide advice and consultation to employees and management, including coaching and counseling on performance management issues, conflict management, interpretation of employment policies and resolution.

Conduct and resolve investigations regarding employee complaints and concerns.

Compliance

Perform regular internal audits and reporting to ensure compliance with federal, state and provider regulatory requirements.

Strategic HR Initiatives

Develop initiatives to enhance employee engagement and retention.

Assist with the aggregation, preparation and maintenance of HR metrics, reports and analysis of key performance indicators, such as employee turnover, engagement and performance metrics.

Provide data-driven insights and recommendations to enhance employee satisfaction and retention, drive process improvement and inform strategic decisions.

Identify opportunities to streamline HR processes for increased efficiency and improved employee experience.

Education and Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in HR, Business Administration or other related field, preferred.

5+ years of experience in Human Resources.

Experience with employee relations, compliance, talent management, compensation analysis, performance management and learning and development.

Comprehensive understanding of HR compliance, reporting, and regulatory requirements a plus.

Proficiency in benefits administration and compensation analysis and design, including salary benchmarking, incentive plan design and benefit effectiveness.

Required Skills/Abilities:

Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships and collaborate across all levels of the organization.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and effectively to various stakeholders.

Ability to handle situations with a high sense of urgency and service focus, excellent organizational and analytical skills.

Ability to adapt and lead through change in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Ability to exercise good judgment in conflict resolution, problem solving and decision-making.

Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion and integrity.

Ability to work independently, take initiative and demonstrate end-to-end ownership.

Excellent customer service and vendor management skills.

Proficiency in HRIS, data analysis and compensation/benefits tools.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite or related software.

Physical Requirements:

Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.

Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.

Sourcing Manager

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.

We are hiring a Sourcing Manager. This person will be responsible for the development and execution of Global Supply Chain Management (GSCM) and Strategic Sourcing strategies, policies, tactics and objectives for assigned complex global projects that align and are linked with the business units, operations, commercial, supply chain and manufacturing strategies.

This position will be based in our Covington, Georgia facility.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Responsible for procurement of Capital Equipment, MRO and Services within assigned group of capital equipment categories and global facilities.

Leads sourcing process through requirements clarification, preparing and publishing RFI/RFP, evaluating quotations, selecting suppliers and negotiating T&C’s and placing PO’s.

Responsible for sourcing and procurement activities globally.

Collaborates with Engineering to establish requirements and execute the full sourcing process to meet the defined technical scope of the project.

Supports the supplier selection process by engaging the proposed suppliers to fulfill the requirements, as well as evaluating the supply base for options, as needed.

Performs some market testing and supplier development, as needed.

Supports the issue management process, including late delivery issues, supplier performance, price changes initiated by the supplier post-negotiation, scope/product changes, etc.

Responsible for tracking and reporting savings.

Assists in training buyers at global locations in regard to global procurement policies and procedures.

Qualifications and Other Requirements:

Bachelor of Science in Business or a related degree

Minimum of ten years of relevant experience including with industrial manufacturing projects.

Knowledge of supply chain and materials management principles – specific to engineering and construction projects is required.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills; Excel and accounting software experience is important.

Strong negotiation, communication, organizational and team-building skills.

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Project Controls Engineer

Hopkinsville, KY

We are currently hiring a Project Controls Engineer! This role will be responsible for providing detailed conceptual estimates from pre-construction schematic and design documents and detailed construction estimates from construction plans and specifications. Project scopes are generally less than $50 million or for designated components on large, complex projects.

Responsibilities include but not limited to:

Cost Estimation and Budgeting

Develop and implement the project controls execution plan, ensuring alignment with cost management best practices

Participate in the project estimating process, ensuring that project cost estimates align with contractual requirements and scope.

Defining and structure the Organizational Breakdown Structure (OBS), Work Breakdown Structure (WBS), and Cost Breakdown Structure (CBS) in financial and progress systems.

Ensure cost coding system is properly applied, and information flow is correct and complete

Cost Tracking and Monitoring

Establish and maintain cost control systems to track actual expenditures against budgets and commitments.

Analyze and interpret cost trends, performance metrics, and cost variances.

Monitor actual progress vs. planned progress, including engineering, procurement, fabrication, construction, and commissioning status.

Provide timely and accurate Cost and Progress Measurement Data, ensuring the accuracy of project cost forecasting

Earned Value Management (EVM) & Progress Measurement

Demonstrate understanding and application of Earned Value Management (EVM) principles for measuring project performance.

Set up and maintain the progress measurement system, ensuring accurate tracking of project milestones and deliverables.

Ensure that Issued for Construction (IFC) quantity take-offs are properly tied to turnover systems.

Audit quantity take-offs and reported installed quantities for consistency with project progress reports.

Forecasting and Financial Control

Develop and maintain the cost forecasting system and cost reports, ensuring alignment with project objectives.

Prepare project cash flows and cost spread analysis.

Undertake monthly cost forecasting and trend analysis, identifying deviations and proposing corrective actions.

Monitor and analyze committed costs, actual vs. budget performance, and cost productivity metrics.

Change Management and Risk Control

Support change management efforts, including developing cost estimates for change verification.

Monitor variations from the original scope of work, capturing and assessing related impacts on costs and schedule.

Assist with contract amendments, ensuring cost implications are properly documented and managed.

Reporting and Communication

Prepare and present project cost reports and variance analysis reports to project stakeholders.

Support accounting with cost-to-billings reconciliations and invoicing reviews.

Provide accurate and timely reporting on cost and progress measurement data to management.

Generate spreadsheet and PowerBI analysis reports for cost and progress management review.

Procurement and Subcontractor Cost Management

Work closely with procurement and subcontract management teams to verify progress and earned value against invoices received.

Ensure the cost coding system is properly applied and information flow is complete.

Monitor cost commitments related to material procurement and subcontractor services.

Support the Subcontract Management team in tracking variations and processing accruals.

Compliance and Best Practices

Adhere to internal project control processes and ensure compliance with industry cost management best practices.

Ensure that financial processes align with contractual requirements and project scope.

Participate in the closeout report data collection, ensuring lessons learned and cost control insights are documented for future projects.

Support the professional development of junior project controls personnel, providing mentorship and guidance.

Education:

Bachelor s degree in construction management, architecture, engineering, or related field required and 4+ years of related experience or completion of an Associates degree and 5+ years of related experience. Where related experience is defined as experience in cost control, project controls, or financial management in an engineering, construction, or manufacturing environment.

Strong understanding of Earned Value Management (EVM) principles and project financial controls.

Proficiency in cost control, planning and ERP software and tools (e.g., Primavera P6, SAP, Excel, PowerBI).

Strong proficiency in PowerBi, including data integration, DAX and creating dashboards.

Excellent analytical skills with the ability to interpret financial data, identify trends, and provide cost-saving recommendations.

Strong analytical and logic skills with the ability to maintain a high degree of precision on detailed work.

Ability to efficiently manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously under time constraints.

Demonstrated integrity and ethical standards.

Developed skills (written, oral, and listening) to effectively communicate with diverse audiences.

Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build successful and lasting relationships.

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Vice President of Projects

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 greenhouse gas emissions. The results are lower cost, better performing batteries, a cleaner manufacturing process, and a truly sustainable closed-loop circular battery economy. This closed-loop process also allows for fewer end-of-life batteries being discarded in landfills. Ascend Elements is taking the lithium-ion battery industry to a higher level.

The Vice President of Projects is a member of the Company’s senior management team and is responsible for key value creation activities in the company. The candidate will have an opportunity to make a significant contribution to the future success of the company by providing outstanding managerial and technical leadership in project delivery. This is a pivotal leadership role that will directly impact our ability to scale operations and requires a leader with extensive experience in materials / chemical engineering, project management, production management and cross-functional collaboration. This position will report directly to the President.

Location: Covington, GA or Hopkinsville, KY

Key Responsibilities

Lead expert project management and coordination to ensure we have the expertise, resources, and capacity to achieve project target

Work cross-functionally with Health & Safety, R&D, Engineering, Supply Chain and Plant Operations to ensure alignment on project objectives and resource allocation, provide visibility to overall project plans and delivery, and drive execution

Establish project management standard operating practice (SOP) and project management standard for all Ascend Elements products

Utilize the best practice methods to provide expert project delivery and technical delivery across various initiatives

Provide leadership and direction to the in-house Project Management function as well as to any outsourced project partners

Oversee all projects, ensuring timely completion, adherence to budgets, and alignment with quality standards

Responsible for shaping and executing the functional strategy to achieve key business objectives of the Company

Deliver safe, high-quality projects which deliver material return for the company

Ensure conformance with standard operating practices, business controls as well as compliance with regulatory standards

Oversee project assurance from project award to commissioning and start-up

Leadership

Lead a high-performing team of project managers, engineers and controls professionals, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, cost efficiency, continuous improvement and delivery

Lead through multiple levels of managers of diverse activities

Evaluate key business challenges, direct the development of new or innovative solutions

Mentor and coach future leaders

Problem Solving

Drive the resolution of complex project or unusual business problems

Balance the challenges of financial, quality and schedule to optimize the long-term return for the company

Develop and manage project budgets, identifying cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality and performance

Education & Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Engineering, Environmental Science, Project Management or a related field; MBA or relevant advanced degree preferred.

20+ years of experience in project management, with a focus on battery materials, energy or related industries. Experience with EPC a plus.

Big company and small company experience, a plus. Proven track record of leading large-scale projects, particularly in the construction of manufacturing facilities or mega plants.

Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills

Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and manage multiple priorities

Exceptional communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.

Excellent analytical skills, ability to display and exercise sound judgment

Applies in-depth knowledge of project management, manufacturing, safety, quality standards, inspection and testing to ensure strong manufacturing and operational performance

Demonstrated record of diligence and attention to detail working with very high standards both personally and technically

What We Offer

Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.

Participation in the Employee Stock Option Plan (ESOP).

Opportunity to lead business-critical projects of a high growth company in a new high growth industry

A collaborative and innovative work environment dedicated to sustainability

Assistant Corporate Controller

Westborough, MA

Ascend Element 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 Assistant Corporate Controller reports to the Corporate Controller and will be responsible for leading and driving the monthly closing process and assisting the Controller with managing overall accounting operations of Ascend Elements, Inc. The Assistant Controller will direct and manage the organization’s expense side of its accounting function, including establishing and maintaining accounting principles, practices, and procedures, preparing financial statements, and reporting to senior management.

This is a hybrid position with an on-site component at our Westborough, MA offices.

Responsibilities include but not limited to:

The candidate is required to have experience with managing and improving monthly and other period end (monthly, quarterly and annual) accounting close cycles.

Managing payables and related payment support with the Director of Treasury.

Have the ability to develop and mentor junior staff.

Both create entries and/or post other key contributor’s entries within SAP 4/HANA Cloud.

Manage T&E reimbursement process to ensure all required receipts support the requested. reimbursement (Concur) and are timely reimbursed to the employees.

Prepare/review the appropriate account reconciliations on a monthly basis.

Provide support for external Audits and Quarterly review procedures.

Evaluate and ensure compliance with accounting policies and procedures.

Effectively communicate with all levels of the organization as necessary.

Serve as a key member of the accounting and finance leadership team, maintaining in-depth relationships with each member, participating in key decisions with the team and providing leadership and expertise to local leadership in areas relating to accounting.

Help to establish and monitor internal controls to ensure that accounting activities are in accordance with established legal, regulatory, US GAAP and company policies and procedures.

Support new systems or project selections and implement them from strategic finance and internal control perspective.

Protects assets by establishing, monitoring, and enforcing internal controls.

Requirements/Qualifications/Education:

10+ years relevant experience to include top 10 firm.

CPA required.

Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance preferred, advanced degrees such as an MBA, MSA are desired.

Current solid ERP systems background (SAP), including reporting tools such as SAP Analytics Cloud (SAC) or similar, as well as Concur.

Proficient in Word and Excel.

Strong written and oral communication skills.

Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Strong organizational and analytical skills.

Willingness to establish and maintain effective working relationships across the organization.

Team player with exceptional interpersonal skills suited to a fast paced, value driven culture.

Effective verbal and written communication skills

Ability to interact with employees and vendors in a professional manner.

Battery Discharge Engineer

Covington, GA

We’re seeking a skilled Battery Discharge Engineer with expertise in the disassembly, assessment, and recycling of used or end-of-life battery systems. The primary responsibility of this role will be to lead efforts in safely and efficiently disassembling battery packs, evaluating individual battery components, and ensuring proper recycling and disposal in accordance with environmental standards. The ideal candidate will have strong knowledge of battery technologies and their components, with a focus on maximizing the recovery of valuable materials while minimizing environmental impact.

Responsibilities include but not limited to:

Lead the disassembly process for end-of-life or used battery packs, ensuring all safety protocols are followed to handle hazardous materials and electrical components.

Inspect and assess individual components of disassembled batteries, including cells, modules, wiring, and protective casings, identifying those that can be reused, refurbished, or recycled.

Work closely with recycling teams to ensure valuable materials (such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, and other metals) are effectively recovered from battery packs and that waste is minimized.

Ensure the disassembly process complies with safety standards and environmental regulations, including handling hazardous substances, battery disposal guidelines, and recycling protocols.

Investigate and analyze battery failures, degradation, or damage to identify the root causes and contribute to improving battery lifecycle management practices.

Continuously improve the disassembly process by identifying opportunities to increase efficiency, reduce labor costs, and minimize environmental impact through automation or better techniques.

Conduct testing on disassembled cells and components to determine their health and remaining capacity, evaluating potential for reuse in secondary applications or energy storage solutions.

Work closely with recycling and processing facilities to optimize the extraction of valuable materials and develop best practices for battery recycling.

Maintain detailed records of disassembly operations, including component condition, material recovery rates, and safety incidents, and prepare reports for regulatory compliance and internal assessments.

Participate in R&D activities to improve battery disassembly technologies, including developing new tools, methods, and automated processes to enhance efficiency and safety.

Education / Experience:

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.

3+ years experience in battery disassembly, recycling, or lifecycle management, ideally in the automotive, energy storage, or electronics industries.

Knowledge of battery technologies, including lithium-ion, lead-acid, and other common battery chemistries.

Strong understanding of safety regulations related to battery handling, disassembly, and disposal.

Familiarity with battery management systems (BMS) and the electrical components of battery packs.

Experience with diagnostic tools for testing battery health, such as capacity testers, voltage meters, and thermal analysis equipment.

Proficiency in the use of CAD software for designing or modifying disassembly tools and systems.

Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify issues in battery systems and recommend efficient disassembly and recycling solutions.

Preferred Skills:

Knowledge of automated disassembly systems or robotics used in battery recycling.

Experience with environmental testing and compliance in the battery recycling industry.

Understanding of current trends and innovations in battery recycling technologies.

Ability to work in cross-functional teams with R&D, manufacturing, and environmental compliance departments.

Analytical Test Technician

Westborough, MA

We’re hiring an Analytical Test Technician to join our team in Westborough, MA! We are looking for a detail orientated hands-on individual who has experience in a lab setting.

2nd Shift: 2pm-10pm with training being held on 1st shift.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Perform analytical material characterization testing notably ICP-OES.

Solve technical problems related to routine testing.

Follow test plans and protocols.

Analyze tests results and report results/conclusions.

Performs troubleshooting on lab equipment as required.

Report test progress to management

Observe all company, state and federal safety and environmental regulations.

Assist with waste and chemical management.

Education and Other Qualifications:

Associate degree in chemistry or related field

1-2 years of work experience in R&D or battery testing environment or chemical/materials lab related experience in University or Industry preferred.

Computer Proficiency (MS Office including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook)

Good lab practices such as safety, recording and documentation.

Willingness to comply with safety and quality regulations, including wearing protective gear when necessary.

Excellent written and verbal communication, organizational, and teamwork skills.

The ability to lift 50 lbs. or more.

APPLY TODAY!

Process Automation and Controls Engineer

Westborough, MA

We are currently hiring a Process Automation and Controls Engineer. You will be working with the Company’s core cathode materials remaking technology, including designing, implementing, and maintaining process instrumentation and control equipment at our site in Westborough.

This role will be onsite in Westborough, MA with 50% travel to other AE facilities.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

Design and develop control strategies with Process Engineers, Scientists, and Principal Investigators (Project Lead). Includes assisting in selection of process equipment, specifying instrumentation and controls equipment, control panel design, programming, and commissioning.

Build and implement company control infrastructure and plant control systems to include databases, SCADA, PLC, HMI, OT Network, and vision/motion control.

Maintain and provide troubleshooting support for commercial production facilities. Includes remote support.

Support commissioning, maintenance, and troubleshooting of existing control systems

Additional responsibilities may include but are not limited to: Design review for future pilot and commercial facilities (P&ID), working with quality in selecting and integrating SPC into automation as needed, and other production data tracking and integration for process control improvements & increasing safety and automation at pilot & production facilities.

Additional responsibilities may include providing automation support to the commercial production facility in Covington Georgia, as well as design review and commissioning support for future facilities.

Meet all physical requirement of the positions: walking/standing for extended periods of time, working in both lab and office, travelling in some cases to other Ascend Elements facilities and conference.

Excellent in both written and oral languages. Summarize data and report project progress regularly.

Education and Other Requirements:

Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering. Preferably Chemical, Electrical or Automation.

At least 3 years’ experience developing automation and controls in hands-on chemical process manufacturing.

Proficient in programming with ladder logic, Siemens, Allen-Bradley, or similar PLC’s and HMI’s.

Experience in reviewing P&ID’s and working through controls logic with Process Engineers.

Selecting, commissioning, and installing control systems.

Troubleshooting of instrumentation, motors, controllers, network systems, and wiring with support of staff electricians and IT as needed.

Experience with electrical troubleshooting and terminating low voltage controls wiring.

Knowledge of Databases, Networking, and SCADA’s.

Knowledge of Ethernet/IP, Modbus, HART, and other industrial communication protocols

Ignition experience a plus

PlantPAx experience preferred

DeltaV experience a plus

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Planner/Scheduler

Hopkinsville, KY

We are currently hiring a Planner / Scheduler! This role will be responsible for providing detailed conceptual estimates from pre-construction schematic and design documents and detailed construction estimates from construction plans and specifications. Project scopes are generally less than $50 million or for designated components on large, complex projects.

Job Overview

The Planner/Scheduler is responsible for developing, maintaining, and monitoring project schedules to support the successful execution of Engineering, Procurement, Construction, and Commissioning (EPCC) battery recycling projects. This role involves applying industry best practices in planning and scheduling to ensure effective resource allocation, progress tracking, and critical path management.

The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, a solid command of Primavera P6, and the ability to assess project trends while proactively identifying risks and mitigation strategies. The Planner/Scheduler will work closely with multi-disciplinary teams, providing essential scheduling insights that drive efficiency and timely project execution.

Key Responsibilities

Project Planning & Scheduling

Develop and maintain logically linked Level 3 and Level 4 EPCC schedules, ensuring alignment with project objectives.

Prepare predecessor and successor relationships in accordance with best scheduling practices and precedence flow diagrams.

Integrate EPCC activities into a fully resource-loaded and logically sequenced project schedule.

Develop and monitor the project baseline schedule, tracking variances and providing recovery plans when necessary.

Utilize earned value management (EVM) techniques to measure project progress and forecast potential deviations.

Resource & Progress Management

Generate workforce histograms, progress curves, and quantity tracking reports to ensure proper resource allocation.

Resource load and level schedules to efficiency and prevent bottlenecks.

Support work package planning efforts, identifying required resources, materials, tools, and equipment for timely execution.

Track and report schedule compliance, analyzing key performance factors and deviations from baseline.

Schedule Risk & Critical Path Analysis

Conduct critical path method (CPM) analysis, identifying potential delays and recommending mitigation measures.

Evaluate schedule risks and constraints that could impact project delivery, developing contingency plans as needed.

Lead schedule review meetings and facilitate detailed multi-discipline scope reviews to ensure alignment across teams.

Monitor and analyze project schedule variations based on historical data and current trends, providing proactive recommendations for improvement.

Stakeholder Collaboration & Reporting

Act as the primary schedule liaison between engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning teams.

Work closely with project managers and functional leads to ensure schedule alignment with project execution plans.

Provide regular schedule reports, dashboards, and data visualizations for management and key stakeholders.

Mentor junior planners, providing guidance on best scheduling practices and software utilization.

Qualifications & Experience

Essential Qualifications:

Associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree in project management, Engineering, Construction, Business Management, or a related field.

5-7 years of experience in project planning and scheduling for large-scale projects (EPC, EPCM, etc).

Expertise in Primavera P6 and Microsoft Project, with experience integrating schedules across multiple disciplines.

Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (curves, histograms, dynamic tables, formulas, and reporting).

Strong understanding of earned value management (EVM), resource leveling, and forecasting techniques.

Ability to analyze and interpret scheduling data to drive informed decision-making.

Experience in conducting schedule risk assessments and implementing mitigation strategies.

Knowledge of construction and fabrication processes, including work packaging and installation sequencing.

Preferred Qualifications:

Certification in Primavera P6, PMI-SP (Scheduling Professional), or AACE PSP (Planning & Scheduling Professional).

Experience in battery recycling, renewable energy, or industrial construction projects.

Knowledge of cost control and its integration with scheduling functions.

Strong problem-solving skills with a proactive approach to schedule optimization and risk mitigation.

Key Competencies & Skills

Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving – Ability to assess scheduling issues, anticipate challenges, and develop practical solutions.

Attention to Detail – Ensure accuracy and completeness in schedule development and tracking.

Analytical & Data Interpretation Skills – Ability to assess project performance through schedule analytics.

Strong Communication & Collaboration – Engage effectively with cross-functional teams and present complex scheduling data in a clear and actionable manner.

Organizational & Time Management – Handle multiple priorities while maintaining schedule integrity.

APPLY TODAY!

Document Controller

Hopkinsville, KY

Ascend Elements (AE) 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 (AE) is taking the lithium-ion battery industry to a higher level.

We are currently hiring a Document Controller to join our Advanced Manufacturing Engineering team. Under the direction of the Project Director/Lead and functionally reporting to the Advanced Manufacturing Engineering Director, the Document Controller will establish, plan, control, and direct the full scope of document/records management program activities for the project.

This position can be based in Hopkinsville, Kentucky or Covington, Georgia.

Responsibilities included but not limited to:

Develops and maintains procedures and standards for maintaining documents and revision history of documents, including document development, approval, distribution, and amendment.

Evaluate, select and roll out an Electronic Document Management System through Ascend Elements’ (AE) Projects.

Maintain the Electronic Document Management System (EDMS) to register, control, distribute, transmit, file, and archive project records for a team in multiple locations across multiple countries.

Plan the scope of document/records management work, establish priorities, and train personnel to perform their assigned duties for project.

Communicate effectively with project team members, client, and field personnel to ensure quality, schedule and budget are met as defined.

Support quality assurance audits, internal technical reviews, and external audits.

Manage project access to the EDMS by creating accounts and inviting users, perform associated tasks with EDMS administration, and train others in these tasks.

Ensure supplier and AE’s documentation is processed within established schedule standards.

Prepare routine documents using standard word processing, spreadsheets, or other office software as needed to support work activities.

Ensure training and training records for project administrative personnel are current.

Compile information, analyze and prepare reports, and establish metrics for document/records management and administrative activities.

Qualifications and Other Skills:

Must have a minimum of 5 years project-based experience performing document/records management with a full understanding on the configuration of the EDMS, work processes, and coordination of project workflow with other entities.

Must have advanced proficiency using standard office automation tools, including Microsoft Excel, Outlook, and Word. (A proficiency test may be required).