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HR Contractor

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 are seeking a part-time HR Contractor to provide short-term support through the end of the year (with potential for a brief extension into early next year). This role will primarily focus on benefits administration and general HR operational support, with additional involvement in special projects and related administrative tasks.


Key Responsibilities:



  • Support day-to-day benefits administration, including enrollments, terminations, billing audits, and coordination with brokers and carriers.

  • Assist with Open Enrollment communications, employee inquiries, and data accuracy across systems.

  • Help maintain benefits records and ensure timely processing of updates and invoices.

  • Provide administrative and reporting support for ongoing HR projects, such as job architecture, contractor transitions, etc.

  • Collaborate with HR team members to ensure documentation, compliance, and process consistency.


Role Details:



  • Approximately 20–25 hours per week through December (potential short extension into January).


Ideal Profile:



  • Strong background in HR operations with hands-on benefits administration experience.

  • Organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities independently.

  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced, project-driven environment and collaborating across teams.


The pay range for this position is $30.00-45.00 per hour. Actual compensation within this range will be determined based on factors such as the candidate’s experience and qualifications.


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.


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Process Engineer – Hydrometallurgy

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 are seeking a highly skilled Process Engineer-Hydrometallurgy to support process development, optimization, and scale-up of advanced metallurgical operations. The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting laboratory and pilot-scale hydrometallurgical test work and performing process analysis for nickel (Ni), cobalt (Co), and lithium (Li) extraction and refining.


Key Responsibilities:



  • Conduct comprehensive hydrometallurgical test work, including:

    • Leaching (acidic, alkaline, and selective)

    • Impurity removal and precipitation

    • Solvent extraction and ion exchange

    • Crystallization and solid–liquid separation

    • Recovery and purification of Ni, Co, and Li compounds



  • Design and execute laboratory experiments to evaluate new processes, optimize parameters, and assess kinetics, thermodynamics, and mass transfer behavior.

  • Perform detailed mass balance calculations and data interpretation to support process modeling and scale-up.

  • Analyze solution chemistry and phase equilibria to predict metal speciation, selectivity, and recovery efficiency.

  • Prepare comprehensive technical reports summarizing test work results, process development findings, and recommendations.

  • Collaborate cross-functionally with process engineers, chemists, and project managers to integrate hydrometallurgical findings into overall flowsheet development.


Education and Other Qualifications:



  • Bachelors in Hydrometallurgy, Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline. Master’s or Ph.D is a plus.

  • Minimum 3 years of industrial or applied R&D experience in hydrometallurgical process development or metal recovery operations involving Ni, Co, and/or Li.

  • Technical Competencies:

    • Strong understanding of solution chemistry, redox behavior, and metal speciation.

    • Proven hands-on experience in laboratory-scale leaching, precipitation, SX/IX, crystallization, and solid-liquid separation.

    • Knowledge of process equipment sizing, CAPEX/OPEX estimation, and process cost evaluation is an asset.

    • Experience using mass balance or process simulation tools (e.g., METSIM, HSC Chemistry, or similar).

    • Familiarity with battery materials and critical metals recovery is an advantage.





  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

  • Detail-oriented with excellent data organization and reporting skills.

  • Effective communication and teamwork across multidisciplinary environments.

  • Self-driven, proactive, and capable of managing multiple tasks under tight timelines.


Preferred:



  • Experience in pilot plant operation or process scale-up.

  • Understanding of sustainability and environmental considerations in hydrometallurgical processing.

  • Background in flowsheet development and techno-economic evaluation of Ni, Co, and Li recovery processes.


The base salary range for this position is $90,000 – 115,000 annually. Actual compensation within this range will be determined based on factors such as the candidate’s experience, qualifications, and internal equity. Ascend Elements also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off, and other employee programs.


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.


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Senior Project Controls Manager

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 is taking the lithium-ion battery industry to a higher level.


The Senior Project Controls Manager is responsible for overseeing and leading all aspects of project controls across multiple or large-scale capital projects. This includes planning, scheduling, cost control, progress measurement, change management, forecasting, and reporting. This role ensures that projects are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget, while aligning with company objectives and client expectations.


Primary Location: Nashville, Tennessee.


Key Responsibilities:



  • Develop and maintain integrated project schedules using tools such as Primavera P6 and MS Project.

  • Establish and manage project budgets, cost control systems, cash flow, and earned value analysis.

  • Lead and supervise a team of schedulers, cost analysts, and document control professionals.

  • Coordinate closely with project managers, engineering, procurement, construction, and finance teams to ensure accurate and timely reporting.

  • Identify and analyze project risks, trends, and deviations; recommend mitigation strategies.

  • Implement and maintain project controls procedures, systems, and tools in alignment with company standards.

  • Support project setup including WBS, coding structures, baseline development, and resource loading.

  • Lead change management and change order processes; ensure all changes are properly documented and incorporated into cost and schedule baselines.

  • Prepare and present executive-level progress reports and dashboards to internal stakeholders and clients.

  • Support proposal development and provide input on execution plans, schedules, and budgets during bid phase.

  • Coach and mentor junior staff; promote a culture of continuous improvement.

  • Liase with AE FP&A to forecast cash required to support multiple ongoing projects.


Education and Qualifications:



  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Finance, or a related field. Master’s degree or PMP certification is a plus.

  • 10+ years of experience in project controls with at least 3 years in a leadership or senior management role.

  • Strong expertise in project planning and cost control methodologies, including earned value management (EVM).

  • Proficient in scheduling and cost management software: Primavera P6, MS Project, Excel, and cost systems such as Deltek, EcoSys, or similar.

  • Experience working in PMC, EPC, EPCM, or industrial capital projects (e.g., oil & gas, infrastructure, power, chemicals, or renewables).

  • Strong analytical, communication, and leadership skills.

  • Ability to work across time zones and manage global teams, if required.

  • Ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed.



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.


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Environmental, Heath, and Safety (EHS) Coordinator

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.


The Environmental, Heath, and Safety (EHS) Coordinator will be responsible for providing full time EHS support to the operations teams in compliance with applicable policy and regulatory requirements at our Westborough, Massachusetts facility. The individual in this position will support the current EHS team in the coordination of training programs to establish and promote a safe, accident free, and healthy workplace, and maintain compliance with federal and Massachusetts environmental regulations.


Responsibilities include but not limited to:



  • Support air, water, wastewater, and hazardous waste permitting and compliance.

  • Develop, maintain and monitor environmental, health, and safety programs and systems.

  • Support compliance with all federal, state, and local EH&S regulations.

  • Provide support regarding routine environmental compliance sampling requirements (e.g., stormwater, air, wastewater)

  • Promote a culture of continuous improvement and safe workplace habits.

  • Assist with coordination of Safety Committee Meetings, lead meetings, when needed.

  • Assist in the development and updating safety standards, instructions, codes, and formalize them into company documented practices, as required.

  • Assist in the development of facility specific EHS procedures for safe work practices and equipment operation.

  • Audit the implementation of inspection policies and procedures, and a schedule of routine inspections.

  • Verify proper safety protocols are in place and being followed.

  • Create and facilitate safety and hazard training courses.

  • Assist in training managers and staff to identify unsafe behaviors and at-risk conditions.

  • Participate in Root Cause Analysis on incidents and near misses.

  • Coordinate with all local, state, and federal AHJs to ensure proper completion and filing of all required reports, inspections, and documentation, as required

  • Facilitate emergency response drills and foster relationships with local emergency first responders


Education and Other Requirements:



  • Bachelor’s degree and 5+ years of EHS experience in a relevant science and engineering field

  • Experience with manufacturing/chemical processing knowledge preferred.

  • 40-hour HAZWOPER training preferred

  • Experience implementing EHS systems

  • Experience with process safety, chemical safety, audits and inspections, and risk management

  • Ability to function in a fast-paced environment in a growing company

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills

  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail

  • Knowledge of EHS, OSHA, RCRA, GA EPD, and shipping laws and regulations

  • Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software

  • Ability to speak and write English

  • Ability to wear an air purifying respirator and other company-required personal protective equipment

  • Able to lift 50 pounds


The base salary range for this position is $65,000 – $85,000 annually. Actual compensation within this range will be determined based on factors such as the candidate’s experience, qualifications, and internal equity. Ascend Elements also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off, and other employee programs.



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.


Learn more

Electro-Mechanical Maintenance Technician

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.


Position Summary

The Electro-Mechanical Maintenance Technician supports plant operations by maintaining and repairing mechanical and electro-mechanical equipment across the lithium-ion battery recycling and metals recovery facility. This includes battery discharging, shredding, separation, leaching, and precursor cathode active material (pCAM) production lines. The role focuses on rotating equipment, conveyors, pumps, gearboxes, and related utility systems, with limited basic electrical work related to motor controls and low-voltage components.


Key Responsibilities

Mechanical & Electro-Mechanical Maintenance:


– Perform preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance on:


• Shredders, conveyors, gear drives, pumps, agitators, and piping systems.


• Bearings, couplings, seals, valves, mixers, and hydraulic/pneumatic systems.


• Bagging stations, powder-handling equipment, and dust collection systems.


– Troubleshoot and repair electro-mechanical systems such as motors, gearboxes, and basic motor starters.


– Perform alignments, rigging, fabrication, and installation of mechanical equipment.


– Inspect and service lubrication, cooling water, and compressed air systems.


– Support safe startup and shutdown of production equipment.


Safety & Compliance:


– Follow strict safety practices for working around high-energy batteries, corrosives, and combustible dust.


– Apply OSHA, NFPA 484, and company safety standards in all maintenance tasks.


– Use required PPE (respirators, gloves, FR clothing, eye and hearing protection) in designated areas.


– Participate in ISO 14001/45001 programs, hazard reporting, and 6S activities.


Reliability & Documentation:


– Use CMMS to track maintenance activities and document repairs.


– Conduct routine inspections and identify early signs of wear or failure.


– Support continuous improvement and reliability initiatives focused on uptime.


– Assist in equipment rebuilds during scheduled shutdowns.


Qualifications

Education & Experience:


– High school diploma or equivalent required.


– Technical certification or journeyman-level training in industrial maintenance, mechanical systems, or related trade preferred.


– Minimum 5 years of experience maintaining industrial mechanical or electro-mechanical systems in a chemical plant, refinery, or process facility.


Technical Skills:


– Strong background in mechanical maintenance: rotating equipment, pumps, gearboxes, mixers, seals, bearings, and couplings.


– Working knowledge of basic electrical systems including, but not limited to: motors, motor starters, relays, fuses, and troubleshooting of low-voltage components (not full electrical construction or I&E duties).


– Proficiency in use of precision measuring instruments, rigging tools, and shop equipment.


– Familiarity with hydraulic and pneumatic system troubleshooting.


Soft Skills:


– Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.


– Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently under minimal supervision.


– Commitment to safety and continuous improvement.


Physical Requirements

– Ability to stand/walk for extended periods, work at heights, climb ladders, kneel, and work in tight spaces.


– Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs. per OSHA guidelines.


– Ability to wear respirators and other PPE for extended durations.


– Work in hot, cold, noisy, or dusty environments.


Why Join Us?

This is a hands-on role at the heart of a facility enabling the circular economy for batteries. You’ll maintain critical process equipment that powers safe and sustainable recovery of lithium and other valuable materials, supporting the clean energy transition.


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.


Learn more

Mechanical Process Technician

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.


The Mechanical Process Technician is responsible for providing, predictive, preventive, and emergency maintenance services to production, utility operations and infrastructure systems as necessary to provide for safe operations, regulatory compliance and equipment availability related to mechanical systems plant wide. The role will initially focus on the development of the design, installation, troubleshooting, and operation of Ascend Elements pilot facility. This role is expected to be hands-on, with a significant amount of time spent engaging in pilot scale testing and troubleshooting. Successful candidates will be results-driven, ambitious, organized, and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment with shifting priorities.


Responsibilities include but not limited to:



  • Maintenance of production units, utility, and infrastructure systems

  • Troubleshoot, repair, and rebuild of compressor systems, chemical process equipment and conveyors. (i.e. reactors, mixing tanks, filters, filter presses, heat exchangers, etc.)

  • Perform predictive, preventive, routine and emergency maintenance on production unit, utility, and infrastructure systems equipment.

  • Provide maintenance and troubleshooting support to production units, utility, and infrastructure systems equipment.

  • Maintain, calibrate, align, troubleshoot, and repair chemical plant mechanical systems.

  • Perform routine trouble shooting activities.

  • Use Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) effectively to accomplish required maintenance in an efficient and organized manner.

  • Optimize plant preventative maintenance program to meet OEM recommendations, regulatory requirements, and corporate maintenance philosophy.

  • Incorporate safe behavior into all activities and consistently comply with all established safety and health policies and procedures.

  • Provide start-up support for production operations.

  • Cooperate with groups and individuals within the Engineering & Maintenance department, Operations, and other service units.

  • Perform all tasks and assignments in accordance with company policies and procedures.

  • Other tasks and duties as assigned.


Education and Other Requirements:



  • High School Diploma

  • 3-5+ years’ experience preferred, maintaining mechanical systems and applications, preferably in a chemical plant, refinery, or large process plant.

  • Experience in a 5s environment with a focus on organization, efficiency, and continuous improvement.

  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.

  • Thorough technical knowledge in the field of industrial mechanical maintenance, including relevant regulations, standards, and codes.

  • Strong mechanical aptitude.

  • Thorough understanding of basic mechanics, mechanical theory, mechanical troubleshooting techniques, and safe work practices.

  • Proficiency in the use of precision measuring instruments and power tools.

  • Repair experience with gear drives, pumps, piping, rigging, fabrication, control valves, couplings, bearings, mixers, and repair of complex mechanical equipment and systems.

  • Team player attitude.

  • Able to read and comprehend mechanical and control drawings and schematics.

  • Able to troubleshoot complex mechanical and piping systems.

  • Strong multi-tasking competency.

  • Background in compressor maintenance.


Preferred Skills:



  • Licensed Journeyman Pipefitter with expertise in piping systems and installation.

  • Hands-on experience with low-voltage wiring, PLC/Ladder Logic programming, and troubleshooting.

  • Background with VFDs, SCADA systems, Automation Direct, and Ignition platforms.


The base hourly rate for this position is $37.00-$43.00 per hour. Actual compensation within this range will be determined based on factors such as the candidate’s experience, qualifications, and internal equity. Ascend Elements also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, 401(k), paid time off, and other employee programs.


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.


Learn more

Senior Plant Cost Accountant

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.


Ascend Elements is currently experiencing growth and therefore is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Plant Cost Accountant to join our team at our Covington manufacturing facility. The Senior Plant Cost Accountant will play a critical role in overseeing all financial activities at the plant level, providing valuable insights to drive business performance, and ensuring compliance with company policies and procedures. The role reports to the Corporate Controller and collaborates with and supports the Covington Plant Leadership team. This position is on-site at our Covington, GA, office.


Key Responsibilities:



  • Manage financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting for the Covington facility.

  • Perform the monthly closing activities for the Covington facility, including the preparation of monthly journal entries and collaboration with the corporate accounting and financial planning and analysis teams to provide accurate and timely financial data and support ad-hoc reporting requests.

  • Responsible for the accuracy of the standard costs starting with the bill of materials and item costs, labor routings, labor rates, as well as overhead assignments.

  • Develop and maintain standard costs and prepare variance analysis reports for inventory, manufacturing costs, and standard cost variances.

  • Analyzes and models changes in product design, raw materials, overhead, manufacturing methods, etc., for effects on production costs.

  • Analyze and report manufacturing efficiency variances and determine corrective action requirements. Ensures items are correctly classified and all reporting is prepared in accordance with GAAP.

  • Responsible for estimating, tracking, and reporting costs associated with new product development and contract manufacturing partners.

  • Proactive analysis of plant performance metrics and variances (budget/forecast vs. actuals) and communication of issues and opportunities to operations management.

  • Develops additional metrics and tracking system for major cost drivers.

  • Communicate/educate internal and external stakeholders regarding the cost data.

  • Partner with Plant Manager to develop and implement strategies to optimize operational efficiency and profitability.

  • Ensure compliance with internal controls, accounting standards, and regulatory requirements.

  • Provides independent oversight of inventory management to ensure accurate physical levels and alignment with the accounting systems and reported amounts.

  • Work with manufacturing and logistics teams to conduct cycle counts and year-end physical inventory.

  • May perform other duties as required.


Ideal Profile:



  • Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or related field; CPA, CMA, or advance degree preferred.

  • Minimum of five years of experience in a similar role within the manufacturing industry, experience in a start-up company and/or in the chemical sector is highly desirable.

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and ERP systems, experience with SAP (Cloud4/Hana) required.

  • Strong understanding of cost accounting principles and experience with manufacturing cost analysis.

  • Results oriented focused, excellence in execution approach.

  • Proven track record of driving process improvements and implementing best practices in financial management and cost accounting.

  • Excellent analytical skills with the ability to translate financial data into actionable insights.

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams.

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

  • Ability to prioritize and work independently on a variety of assignments with minimal supervision.

  • Ability to accurately determine deadlines.

  • Commutable distance within the Covington/Atlanta area (5 days / week in office)



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.


Learn more

You can make a difference — creating a truly sustainable battery industry

With North America’s largest battery recycling facility, strong relationships across the industry and our patented direct precursor synthesis technology, we are building a world-class team to meet industry demand for closed-loop battery materials solutions.

Learn more about our mission

You can make a difference — creating a truly sustainable battery industry

With North America’s largest battery recycling facility, strong relationships across the industry and our patented direct precursor synthesis technology, we are building a world-class team to meet industry demand for closed-loop battery materials solutions.

Learn more about our mission

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