Elkem ASA: Manufacturing the Future with Advanced Silicon Materials

Join a Global Leader in Sustainable Metallurgy and Advanced Chemistry

Career Opportunities in Mo i Rana, Orkanger, and Hardanger

Plant Operators | Mechanical Engineers | Laboratory Technicians

The modern world is built on advanced materials that remain largely unseen yet absolutely critical to our daily lives. From the solar panels that generate clean energy to the high-strength steel used in modern infrastructure, the demand for highly refined metallurgical products has never been greater. In Norway, a historic yet fiercely innovative company stands at the global epicenter of this industrial revolution. This organization is not merely a manufacturer; it is a pioneer in material science, transforming raw natural resources into the sophisticated building blocks of the twenty-first century.

Working in the advanced materials sector offers a unique perspective on global supply chains and technological progress. Professionals in this field do not just oversee generic production lines; they manage complex, high-temperature chemical reactions and meticulous refinement processes that require extreme precision and deep technical knowledge. The facilities where these transformations occur are marvels of modern engineering, operating continuously to meet the insatiable global demand for specialized alloys and silicon derivatives. For ambitious individuals seeking a career anchored in tangible, world-changing industrial production, this sector provides unparalleled opportunities for growth and specialization.

Currently, this leading Norwegian enterprise is actively seeking dedicated professionals to join its expansive operations across several key domestic facilities. Whether your expertise lies in hands-on plant operation, complex mechanical engineering, or precise laboratory analysis, there is a critical role that requires your specific skills. The following comprehensive guide will explore the profound impact of the company's product portfolio, detail the exceptional career opportunities currently available, and explain why joining this industrial powerhouse represents a significant step forward in any technical professional's career trajectory.

The Power of Advanced Materials: A Deep Dive into the Product Portfolio

Silicon: The Core of Modern Technology

Metallurgical Grade Silicon

At the very heart of the company's operations lies the production of high-purity metallurgical silicon. This extraordinary element is the fundamental prerequisite for a vast array of modern technologies. The smelting process involves the intense reduction of quartz with carbon in massive, highly controlled submerged arc furnaces. The resulting silicon metal is a critical alloying agent in the aluminum industry, significantly enhancing the strength and castability of aluminum components used extensively in automotive manufacturing and aerospace engineering. Without this vital material, the production of lightweight, fuel-efficient vehicles would be practically impossible.

Polysilicon and Electronics

Beyond its metallurgical applications, highly refined silicon serves as the absolute bedrock of the global electronics and renewable energy sectors. Through complex chemical purification processes, metallurgical silicon is transformed into polysilicon. This ultra-pure material is then meticulously sliced into the delicate wafers that form the active components of solar photovoltaic panels and the intricate microchips powering every computer, smartphone, and digital device on the planet. By manufacturing the foundational silicon, the company directly enables the global transition toward sustainable solar energy and the continuous advancement of digital technology.

Ferrosilicon: Strengthening the World's Infrastructure

The Backbone of Steelmaking

Ferrosilicon is a robust alloy of iron and silicon, and it is arguably one of the most important additives in the global steelmaking industry. The company produces premium grades of ferrosilicon that act as powerful deoxidizing agents during the steel manufacturing process. When added to molten steel, the silicon aggressively reacts with dissolved oxygen, preventing the formation of structural defects and ensuring the final product possesses the necessary integrity and strength. This process is absolutely essential for producing the high-quality steel required for constructing towering skyscrapers, massive bridges, and resilient industrial machinery.

Specialty Foundry Alloys

In addition to standard ferrosilicon, the organization has developed a highly specialized portfolio of foundry alloys. These precision-formulated products, which include preconditioners, inoculants, and nodularizers, are critical for the production of cast iron. By carefully controlling the nucleation potential and the microscopic formation of graphite within the iron, these alloys dramatically improve the mechanical properties and machinability of the final castings. This specialized metallurgy ensures that critical components, such as engine blocks, wind turbine hubs, and heavy-duty pipes, can withstand extreme stress and perform reliably under the most demanding conditions.

Microsilica: Revolutionizing Construction Materials

The Magic of Silica Fume

One of the most fascinating products in the company's portfolio is Microsilica, also known globally as silica fume. Originally considered a byproduct of the silicon smelting process, this ultra-fine, spherical amorphous silicon dioxide has been ingeniously repurposed into a highly valuable industrial additive. The particles are incredibly small—roughly one hundred times smaller than a grain of cement—allowing them to fill the microscopic voids within concrete mixtures. This extraordinary physical property fundamentally alters the performance characteristics of construction materials.

High-Performance Concrete and Refractories

When Microsilica is incorporated into concrete, it triggers a pozzolanic reaction that significantly increases both the compressive strength and the profound durability of the final structure. This high-performance concrete is essential for constructing monumental projects exposed to harsh environments, such as deep-sea oil platforms, towering hydroelectric dams, and extensive subterranean tunnel networks. Furthermore, Microsilica is a crucial ingredient in the manufacturing of advanced refractory materials. These heat-resistant linings are vital for protecting the interior of industrial furnaces, kilns, and incinerators, demonstrating the product's incredible versatility across multiple heavy industries.

Carbon Materials: Powering the Smelting Process

Søderberg Electrode Paste

The production of silicon and ferroalloys requires immense electrical energy delivered directly into the heart of the smelting furnace. To achieve this, the company manufactures its own highly specialized carbon-based materials, most notably the legendary Søderberg electrode paste. This unique carbon compound is continuously fed into the furnace, where the extreme heat bakes it into a solid, highly conductive electrode. The quality of this carbon paste is paramount, as it directly impacts the stability, energy efficiency, and overall safety of the entire high-temperature smelting operation.

Cathode Ramming Pastes

Beyond electrodes, the organization also produces advanced cathode ramming pastes. These specialized carbon materials are used to line the bottom of massive electrolysis cells, particularly within the global primary aluminum industry. The ramming paste must possess exceptional resistance to intense chemical corrosion and extreme thermal shock. By formulating these highly resilient carbon products, the company ensures the longevity and operational reliability of critical metallurgical infrastructure worldwide, further cementing its position as an indispensable partner to the heavy manufacturing sector.

About the Employer: Elkem ASA

A Century of Industrial Excellence

Historical Foundation

Established in 1904, Elkem boasts a rich and storied history that is deeply intertwined with the industrialization of Norway itself. Originally founded to harness the immense power of the nation's roaring waterfalls for electrometallurgical production, the company has spent over a century perfecting the complex science of smelting. This long-standing heritage provides the organization with an unparalleled depth of institutional knowledge and a profound understanding of global material markets. The legacy of continuous operation through decades of economic shifts stands as a powerful testament to the company's resilience, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to industrial excellence.

Global Presence and Scale

Today, the organization has evolved far beyond its Norwegian roots to become a truly global powerhouse. With a dedicated workforce exceeding 7,000 employees, the company operates an extensive network of advanced production facilities, research centers, and sales offices spanning more than thirty countries worldwide. This massive international footprint ensures that the company remains in close proximity to its diverse global customer base, allowing for rapid response times and deeply collaborative product development. Being listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange further underscores its position as a major, transparent, and highly capitalized player in the international materials sector.

Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation

Pioneering Green Metallurgy

The heavy manufacturing industry is often associated with significant environmental challenges, but this company is aggressively rewriting that narrative. The organization has placed sustainability at the very core of its long-term strategic vision. A significant portion of its Norwegian smelting operations is powered directly by clean, renewable hydroelectric energy, drastically reducing the carbon footprint of its products compared to global competitors. Furthermore, the company invests heavily in innovative technologies designed to capture and recycle waste heat, minimize emissions, and maximize the efficient use of every raw material entering its facilities.

Continuous Research and Development

Maintaining a leadership position in advanced materials requires a relentless dedication to scientific research and continuous process improvement. The company operates state-of-the-art laboratory facilities where brilliant chemists, metallurgists, and engineers collaborate to push the boundaries of what is possible. Whether they are developing new, highly specialized foundry alloys for the automotive industry or finding innovative ways to increase the purity of silicon for solar applications, the R&D teams are the driving force behind the company's future success. This culture of innovation ensures that employees are constantly challenged and engaged in truly meaningful, forward-looking work.

Current Openings in Norway

Position 1: Operatør i Norges ledende smelteverk (Plant Operator)

Location: Mo i Rana, Norway | Contract: Full-time, Permanent | Division: Silicon Products

What This Role Is About

The expansive facility located in Mo i Rana is widely recognized as one of the most modern and efficient process industry plants in the region. The production department is currently seeking dedicated operators to join their robust professional environment. In this highly active role, you will be directly responsible for the hands-on operation, continuous monitoring, and precise control of massive production processes and heavy industrial equipment. You will be instrumental in ensuring the continuous output of high-quality ferrosilicon and the globally renowned Microsilica products.

Your daily routine will involve navigating a complex industrial environment where safety and precision are paramount. You will rigorously execute your duties in strict accordance with established Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) protocols, ensuring that quality standards are never compromised. When operational deviations occur, you will be the first line of defense, utilizing your technical understanding to troubleshoot issues swiftly and effectively. Furthermore, you will actively participate in structured improvement initiatives, collaborating closely with other specialized departments to continuously refine and optimize the plant's sophisticated production processes using advanced digital control systems.

Requirements and Qualifications

To thrive in this demanding environment, safety must be your absolute highest priority; candidates must demonstrate exceptional HSE attitudes. The formal requirement for this role is a recognized vocational certificate (Fagbrev) in chemical processing, production technology, or another highly relevant industrial discipline. Practical, hands-on experience gained within the process industry or a similarly complex manufacturing environment is considered highly valuable and will significantly strengthen your application.

The nature of the work requires individuals who are equally comfortable working independently on focused tasks and collaborating seamlessly within a tight-knit shift team. You must possess excellent communication skills, with a strong command of the Norwegian language, both in spoken and written forms, to ensure clear operational coordination. A valid Class B driver's license is also required. Please be fully aware that this critical position operates on a rigorous 5-shift schedule, encompassing 12-hour working periods that include days, nights, weekends, and public holidays.

Contact Information

For specific inquiries regarding the Operator position in Mo i Rana, please contact Eivind Sorsell (HR Manager) at +47 91859922.

---

Position 2: Maskiningeniør (Mechanical Engineer)

Location: Ålvik i Kvam i Hardanger, Norway | Contract: Full-time, Permanent | Division: Silicon Products

What This Role Is About

The Bjølvefossen plant, situated in the breathtaking Hardanger region, is seeking a highly motivated Mechanical Engineer to join its comprehensive maintenance department. This multidisciplinary team, encompassing mechanical, electrical, automation, IT, and civil engineering disciplines, forms the technical backbone of the entire facility. As a maintenance engineer, you will assume significant responsibility for ensuring the absolute reliability and continuous optimization of critical mechanical systems across your designated operational areas.

Your primary focus will be the systematic management of the plant's maintenance infrastructure. You will take ownership of the computerized maintenance management systems, ensuring that preventative and corrective actions are meticulously planned and executed. A crucial aspect of your role involves the strategic procurement and rigorous follow-up of external maintenance services, requiring you to negotiate effectively with specialized contractors and ensure their work meets the company's exacting standards. You will report directly to the Technical Manager and be expected to actively drive the continuous development of the plant's overall maintenance competence.

Requirements and Qualifications

This senior technical role requires a strong academic foundation; candidates must hold a formal degree in Engineering or Civil Engineering (Ingeniør-/ Sivilingeniørutdanning), with a clear specialization in mechanical systems. We are specifically looking for an individual who is deeply motivated by the principles of continuous improvement and possesses demonstrable, practical experience in executing structured improvement methodologies within an industrial setting.

Substantial prior experience in industrial maintenance management and complex technical project execution is highly desirable. The ideal candidate is highly systematic, exceptionally results-oriented, and possesses a strong desire to develop their career in tandem with an ambitious employer. Because this role requires extensive interaction with internal teams, external suppliers, and plant leadership, excellent collaboration and interpersonal skills are absolutely essential for success. The company offers highly competitive conditions and is fully prepared to assist the successful candidate in securing local housing in the beautiful Ålvik area.

Contact Information

For specific inquiries regarding the Mechanical Engineer position in Ålvik, please contact Arild Rykkje at +47 91845650.

---

Position 3: Laborant (Laboratory Technician)

Location: Orkanger, Norway | Contract: Full-time, Permanent | Division: Silicon Products

What This Role Is About

The Thamshavn facility, located just 35 minutes from the vibrant city of Trondheim, is seeking a dedicated Laboratory Technician who is deeply passionate about analytical chemistry and eager to contribute to the green transition of the smelting industry. The laboratory department plays a pivotal role in ensuring the uncompromising quality of the plant's critical outputs, specifically highly refined silicon and specialized Microsilica. In this role, you will work with advanced analytical technologies within a forward-leaning and highly skilled professional team.

Your core responsibilities will center on the precise, daily analysis of incoming raw materials, intermediate process samples, and final commercial products. You will be entrusted with the rigorous control, meticulous calibration, and routine maintenance of a wide spectrum of complex laboratory instruments. Beyond routine analysis, you will actively participate in sophisticated method development, exploring new ways to enhance analytical accuracy and efficiency. You will be a vital contributor to the laboratory's continuous improvement initiatives, utilizing your analytical insights to help optimize the broader metallurgical processes of the entire plant.

Requirements and Qualifications

The successful candidate must possess a formal vocational certificate (Fagbrev) specifically in laboratory science, process science, or another highly relevant technical discipline. Demonstrable, hands-on experience working within a professional industrial or analytical laboratory environment is a strict requirement. We are looking for an individual who is naturally curious, eager to understand complex chemical relationships, and comfortable utilizing modern programming and digital tools to analyze extensive datasets.

The laboratory environment demands an individual who can work with extreme independence, exceptional accuracy, and a highly systematic approach. A profound, unwavering focus on quality control is absolutely essential. While you must be capable of independent analysis, you must also genuinely enjoy working closely with colleagues and actively contributing to a positive, collaborative team dynamic. Complete fluency in the Norwegian language, encompassing both strong written and oral communication skills, is required to ensure accurate reporting and effective internal coordination. The position reports directly to the Laboratory Manager.

Contact Information

For specific inquiries regarding the Laboratory Technician position in Orkanger, please contact Mari Eggen Lien at +47 97789396.

Why Build Your Career Here?

Professional Growth and Stability

A Foundation of Security

In an era characterized by rapid economic shifts and unpredictable market dynamics, building a career within a century-old industrial giant provides a profound sense of professional security. The company's diverse product portfolio, which serves multiple critical global industries ranging from construction to electronics, ensures a remarkable degree of economic resilience. Employees can focus on mastering their respective crafts and contributing to long-term projects, secure in the knowledge that they are backed by a highly capitalized, globally recognized, and fundamentally stable organization.

Continuous Competence Development

The organization views its workforce not as an expense, but as its most critical asset. Consequently, there is a massive, ongoing investment in employee development. Whether you are an operator learning to navigate a new digital control system, an engineer pursuing advanced certifications in predictive maintenance, or a laboratory technician mastering a new analytical methodology, the company provides the resources, the time, and the structured training programs necessary for continuous professional growth. This commitment ensures that your skills remain sharp, relevant, and highly sought-after in the global industrial landscape.

Making a Tangible Global Impact

Driving the Green Transition

Perhaps the most compelling reason to join this organization is the opportunity to perform work that has a direct, measurable impact on the global environment. The materials produced in these Norwegian facilities are not just commodities; they are the essential enablers of the green energy transition. By contributing to the production of high-purity silicon for solar panels or developing specialized alloys that make transportation more fuel-efficient, employees are actively participating in the global effort to combat climate change. This provides a deep, enduring sense of purpose that transcends the daily routine, making every shift and every project genuinely meaningful.

How to Apply

Application Process

Submit Your Application

If you are a dedicated professional ready to contribute to a world-leading materials manufacturer, we strongly encourage you to apply for these exceptional opportunities. The recruitment teams at each respective facility carefully evaluate all applications to identify candidates whose technical skills, safety mindset, and collaborative spirit align with the company's core values. When submitting your application, please ensure that your resume and cover letter clearly articulate your relevant industrial experience, your formal qualifications, and your specific interest in advancing the field of sustainable metallurgy.

Please note that all applications must be submitted through the official corporate recruitment portal to ensure data privacy and efficient processing. The company conducts background checks as a standard part of the recruitment process and evaluates applications on a continuous basis.