Rare Earth Elements SME
Fairfax, VA · On-site +1
S. rare earth supply chain resilience and domestic critical mineral independence. The REE SME also ... de-risk emerging REE processes from TRL 2-7. This is a remote position.Key ...
Rare Earth Elements SME
Fairfax, VA · On-site +1
S. rare earth supply chain resilience and domestic critical mineral independence. The REE SME also ... de-risk emerging REE processes from TRL 2-7. This is a remote position.Key ...
Remote Rare Earth information
What are remote rare earth jobs?
Remote rare earth jobs refer to positions that involve working with rare earth elements or minerals, but are performed remotely, often via computer or telecommunications. These jobs can include roles in research, data analysis, supply chain management, consulting, or technical support for companies involved in the exploration, extraction, or processing of rare earth materials. Remote rare earth jobs are becoming more common as technology enables professionals to contribute to the industry from anywhere, without needing to be physically present at mining or processing sites.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a remote rare earth mineral specialist, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Remote Rare Earth Mineral Specialist, you need a solid background in geology, mining engineering, or materials science, often supported by relevant degrees and experience in rare earth element extraction or processing. Familiarity with geospatial analysis tools, mining software, and possibly certifications in mineral exploration or safety are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving, and effective virtual communication are crucial soft skills for collaborating remotely with teams and stakeholders. These skills and qualifications enable accurate resource assessment, efficient project management, and effective coordination in a specialized and often remote work environment.
What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in remote rare earth roles, and how can they be addressed?
Professionals working in remote rare earth roles often encounter challenges such as limited access to on-site resources, time zone differences with global teams, and the need for reliable digital communication tools. Additionally, these roles may require a high degree of self-motivation and discipline, as direct supervision is minimal. Building strong virtual collaboration skills, maintaining clear communication, and leveraging modern project management platforms can help address these challenges and ensure successful project outcomes.
What is the difference between Remote Rare Earth vs Remote Geologist?
| Aspect | Remote Rare Earth | Remote Geologist |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | Bachelor's degree in Earth Sciences, Geology, or related field; relevant certifications | Bachelor's or higher in Geology or Earth Sciences; certifications like PG or GIT often preferred |
| Work Environment | Primarily remote, fieldwork possible, industry-specific labs or offices | Remote with field site visits, labs, or offices depending on project |
| Industry Usage | Mining, mineral exploration, rare earth element extraction | Natural resource exploration, environmental assessment, mineral studies |
| Common Search & Comparison | Remote Rare Earth vs Remote Geologist |
Remote Rare Earth and Remote Geologist roles share similar educational backgrounds and industry applications. While Remote Rare Earth specialists focus on rare earth mineral extraction and processing, Remote Geologists have broader roles in natural resource exploration and environmental studies. Both positions often require remote work with occasional field visits, making them comparable in work environment and credentials.
What are the most commonly searched types of Rare Earth jobs in Virginia?
The most popular types of Rare Earth jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Remote Rare Earth jobs in Virginia?
For Remote Rare Earth jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Remote Rare Earth jobs in Virginia look for?
The top searched job categories for Remote Rare Earth jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Remote Rare Earth jobs?
Cities in Virginia with the most Remote Rare Earth job openings:
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement
Re-posted 3 days ago
Job description
Based in the Washington, D.C. Metro area, Pivot Path Solutions, LLC , is a government contracting and business solutions firm that offers enterprise IT solutions, strategic and acquisition planning, organizational development, and medical research and analytics services to help customers adapt and thrive in changing market conditions. Pivot Path Solutions is seeking a highly experienced Rare Earth Elements (REE) Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support our growing portfolio with our public sector clients. This role provides high-level scientific, technical, and strategic expertise supporting federal R&D initiatives focused on critical minerals, rare earth extraction, processing, separation, recycling, and commercialization. The REE SME guides technology development, field demonstrations, and strategic program decisions across exploration, mineralogy, mining, beneficiation, hydrometallurgy, electrometallurgy, and materials applications.
This role ensures technical excellence, regulatory alignment, and scientific rigor for projects supporting U.S. rare earth supply chain resilience and domestic critical mineral independence. The REE SME also interfaces with Government stakeholders, research partners, and industry collaborators to validate technologies and de-risk emerging REE processes from TRL 2-7. This is a remote position.Key ResponsibilitiesTechnical Expertise & Scientific Leadership
Pivot Path Solutions strives to attract, motivate, and retain the best people in the industry. Our benefits package reflects our continued commitment to our employees by prioritizing the health and well-being of each member. The Company offers a comprehensive compensation package that includes:
This role ensures technical excellence, regulatory alignment, and scientific rigor for projects supporting U.S. rare earth supply chain resilience and domestic critical mineral independence. The REE SME also interfaces with Government stakeholders, research partners, and industry collaborators to validate technologies and de-risk emerging REE processes from TRL 2-7. This is a remote position.Key ResponsibilitiesTechnical Expertise & Scientific Leadership
- Serve as the primary authority on rare earth elements, critical minerals, and associated supply chains, including extraction, processing, separation, and end-use applications.
- Evaluate and guide advanced REE technologies across the full lifecycle:
- Geological resource characterization
- Mineral processing (crushing, grinding, flotation, gravity, magnetic separation)
- Hydrometallurgical and solvent extraction systems
- Ion exchange, membrane systems, electrowinning, precipitation
- Purification and separation of individual REEs
- Metallization and alloy production
- REE recycling from e-waste, magnets, and industrial byproducts
- Provide scientific oversight for TRL 2-6 R&D projects, ensuring clear TRL advancement pathways.
- Develop and review technical deliverables, white papers, and DOE-required documentation.
- Provide expertise on REE geological formations-including carbonatites, ion-adsorption clays, monazite, bastnaesite, phosphates, and coal byproducts.
- Support design, interpretation, and optimization of:
- Geochemical assays
- Geophysical surveys (EM, magnetics, radiometrics)
- Borehole logging
- Ore characterization and mineralogy studies
- Translate resource data into volumetric assessments, mine planning inputs, and processing flowsheets.
- Lead technical design and optimization of REE processing flowsheets, including material balances, mass/energy calculations, and separation efficiency modeling.
- Evaluate equipment selection, reagent chemistry, and process control strategies.
- Provide techno-economic analysis inputs (TEA), including CAPEX/OPEX assumptions for separation and refining steps.
- Ensure compliance with environmental standards related to REE mining and processing, including waste management, tailings, emissions, and radiation safety.
- Guide sustainability practices such as:
- Reduced energy and reagent consumption
- Waste minimization and co-product recovery
- Water efficiency and treatment technologies
- Environmental monitoring and permitting strategies
- Support pilot- and field-scale demonstrations of REE extraction, beneficiation, and processing technologies.
- Oversee sampling, pilot plant operations, and analytical validation activities.
- Assist in integration of automation, robotics, and real-time sensing technologies into REE operations.
- Work with DOE, DoD, USGS, NIST, and other federal programs on critical mineral research and policy.
- Provide strategic input to project partners, industry operators, and academic institutions.
- Contribute to consortiums, workshops, technical forums, and stakeholder meetings.
- Provide domain expertise in support of federal proposals, including DOE FOAs, DoD R&D solicitations, and USGS critical minerals programs.
- Shape R&D strategies, teaming approaches, and innovation pathways for REE projects.
- Review proposal technical volumes, management plans, schedules, and SOPO language.
- Master's or PhD in Metallurgy, Mining Engineering, Materials Science, Geochemistry, Geology, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
- 10+ years of experience in REE or critical mineral extraction, separation, processing, or manufacturing.
- Deep knowledge of mineralogy, processing technologies, hydrometallurgy, and REE refining flowsheets.
- Proven experience supporting federal R&D, pilot plant demonstrations, or advanced commercialization activities.
- Strong technical writing ability for scientific reports and federal deliverables.
- Experience with DOE, DoD, DARPA, ARPA-E, NETL, USGS, or NSF programs.
- Experience operating or designing pilot plants, metallurgical labs, or mining testbeds.
- Expertise in unconventional REE resources (coal ash, acid mine drainage, industrial byproducts).
- Experience with AI/ML-enabled mineral characterization or advanced sensing systems.
- Familiarity with U.S. critical mineral policy, supply chain risks, and international market dynamics.
- Strong analytical and systems-thinking abilities.
- Ability to translate complex scientific concepts into clear recommendations.
- Effective communication with technical, non-technical, and government stakeholders.
- Leadership in multidisciplinary environments and research consortia.
- Commitment to safety, sustainability, and scientific integrity.
- Hybrid work environment with potential travel to mine sites, proving grounds, pilot facilities, academic labs, and federal meetings.
- Ability to work around industrial equipment and in outdoor field settings as required.
- Must comply with all applicable safety and environmental protocols.
Pivot Path Solutions strives to attract, motivate, and retain the best people in the industry. Our benefits package reflects our continued commitment to our employees by prioritizing the health and well-being of each member. The Company offers a comprehensive compensation package that includes:
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance
- Generous Contribution on Health, Dental and Vision Insurances
- 100% Employer Paid Group Life Insurance, Short Term and Long-Term Disability
- Safe Harbor 401(K) Plan
- Health Saving Account (HSA)
- Healthcare Flexible Saving Account (FSA) and Dependent Care FSA
- Education Reimbursement
- Employee Referral Program