JUNIOR MECHANICAL ENGINEER
DESCRIPTION
REEcycle is a Houston-based pioneer in the recycling of rare earth elements (REEs) from end-of-life permanent magnets. Our patented technology is the U.S’ answer to China’s dominance in the rare earth supply chain. REEcycle is backed by institutional investors and supported by a Department of Defense grant, underscoring the importance and urgency of our mission.
As we scale toward commercial deployment, we are seeking a Junior Mechanical Engineer. A key focus will be on the deployment, testing, and further build out of our Drive Disassembly Machine (DDM), a critical component to REEcycle’s future success. This system efficiently extracts magnets from hard disk drives, creating economically viable feedstocks for our processes.
We are looking for a self-starter who thrives in dynamic environments, brings inventive and solutions-oriented thinking, and is ready to play a key role in building the future of U.S. rare earth independence.
If you're excited to learn, build and grow within a fast-paced team making real-world impact, we’d love to speak with you about our Junior Engineer position.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Support the scaling of a Mechatronic System
Assist with project execution across all phases from prototype build to early commercial deployment.
Develop hands-on working knowledge of the company’s proprietary machinery, including hydraulics, pneumatics, mechanical assemblies, and PLC-based control systems.
Contribute as a technical team member and problem-solver, supporting system troubleshooting, documentation, and cross-functional collaboration across engineering and operations teams.
System Integration and Troubleshooting
Learn and support system integration, gaining an understanding of how mechanical and electrical subsystems interact, including solenoid valves, pneumatic actuators, linear guides, hydraulic pumps and cylinders, sensors, and control logic.
Assist in troubleshooting and root-cause analysis of machine issues, participating in hands-on diagnostics, reviewing system data and logs, and coordinating with senior engineers, technicians, or vendors as needed.
Commercialization and Production Readiness
Support the transition of prototype systems to commercial-scale deployment with hands-on involvement in equipment assembly, testing, and system build-out, while assisting with design refinement and validation activities.
Deployment and Field Learning
Travel and support field deployments, ensuring performance aligns with expectations.
Capture real-world feedback to inform design improvements
Basic Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Electronics, Mechatronics, Robotics, or Manufacturing disciplines).
0-2 years of experience in engineering, product development, or manufacturing environments.
Comfortable working directly on the shop floor, assisting with machinery build-out, testing, and commissioning alongside technicians and operators.
Experience in CAD platforms, specifically SolidWorks
Location: Houston, Texas (In office)
Position Type: Full-time
Salary: Compensation will be based on experience
Benefits: Health insurance, dental and vision as well as other benefits