Science & Technology

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.

We are seeking a highly skilled Solvent Extraction Engineer to join our team and play a crucial role in developing and optimizing solvent extraction processes for critical materials. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in bench-scale and pilot-scale solvent extraction testing, particularly in the extraction, scrubbing, and stripping of Nickel (Ni), Cobalt (Co), and Manganese (Mn). Experience in lithium-ion battery recycling or hydrometallurgical processing of battery materials is a strong asset.



Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct bench-scale solvent extraction test work, including phase separation, distribution coefficient analysis, and reagent selection.


• Design, set up, and operate pilot-scale solvent extraction systems to optimize metal recovery processes.


• Develop and optimize extraction, scrubbing, and stripping stages for Ni, Co, Mn, and other critical metals.


• Analyze process parameters and adjust conditions to improve extraction efficiency and separation selectivity.


• Work closely with analytical teams to interpret assay results and optimize extraction conditions.


• Develop and implement process models for solvent extraction circuit design and optimization.


• Identify and troubleshoot process inefficiencies, reagent degradation, and phase separation issues.


• Collaborate with R&D and engineering teams to integrate solvent extraction processes into commercial-scale operations.


• Prepare technical reports, SOPs, and process documentation for internal and external stakeholders.


• Stay updated on emerging trends in hydrometallurgy, particularly in lithium-ion battery recycling and critical materials extraction.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, or a related field.


• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in solvent extraction processes, preferably in Ni, Co, Mn, or battery recycling applications.


• Strong knowledge of solvent extraction chemistry, phase separation, and reagent systems (e.g., D2EHPA, Cyanex, PC-88A, TBP).


• Experience with pilot plant operations, including mixer-settlers, contactors, and continuous extraction systems.


• Familiarity with hydrometallurgical processing of battery materials, including lithium-ion battery recycling, is a plus.


• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot process inefficiencies.


• Hands-on experience with analytical techniques such as ICP-OES, titration, and pH control in solvent extraction systems.


• Ability to work both independently and in a team-oriented environment.


• Strong technical writing and reporting skills.

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.

JOB TITLE: Precursor Process Engineer

JOB LOCATION: Westborough, Massachusetts. REMOTE EMPLOYMENT IS NOT AN OPTION.

REQUIRED TRAVEL: Domestic and international travel up to 50%

REQUIRED HOURS: Full-time; Third Shift. Hours are from 10:00PM to 6:00AM.

POSITION SUMMARY: The Precursor Process Engineer reports to the Manager of Precursor Processing. In this position, the employee will be responsible for supporting the development, verification, and transfer of NMC precursor materials, including mid-Ni and high-Ni chemistries, from recycled feedstocks.

REQUIRED DUTIES:

• Lead the development of NMC precursor materials and support the scaling up process by working closely with material engineers and process engineers.


• Summarize progress and discuss any challenges with the team, proposing solutions for possible issues.


• Support the scaling up of precursor processing from R&D and pilot levels to mass production levels.


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


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


• Maintain appropriate records and reports to support GMP.

EDUCATION REQUIRMENTS:

Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or a closely related field (foreign equivalent is acceptable), plus a minimum of 5 years of employment experience OR a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Physics, or a closely related field (foreign equivalent is acceptable), plus a minimum of 2 years of employment experience, any suitable combination of education, training, or experience is acceptable.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• Employment experience working with complex materials design and development.


• Employment experience in process development, control, and transfer at the mass production level.


• Employment experience in the scale-up of chemical processes.


• Employment experience in production areas, including process, equipment, operation, quality assurance and control, SPC, experiment design (DOE).


• Demonstrated knowledge of the current state-of-the-art lithium-ion battery material production processes.

CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

Must be a “Trained Lean Six Sigma Green Belt” with credentials from a professional association.

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 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!

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.