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.