Lead Engineering Technician - Leach Process Optimization

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At Freeport-Mc Mo Ran , we are committed to providing an employment package that recognizes excellence, encourages safe production and a culture supported by our core values. Here, you’ll find a collaborative environment where safety is a top priority, all opinions are valued, and people are empowered to grow in their career. Apply Today!

Where You Will Work

Located approximately 50 miles northeast of Safford, Arizona on U.S. Highway 191, Morenci operations (an open-pit copper mining complex) has been in continuous operation since 1939. The operation consists of two concentrators, crushed-ore leach pad and stacking system, a low-grade run-of-mine (ROM) leaching system; four SX plants; and three EW tank houses that produce copper cathode.

Morenci is a unique company town where our employees and their families can reconnect with nature through hiking, fishing, camping, hunting and numerous parks. The company offers several amenities, including company housing OR employees who are required to work on-site are eligible for a $750 monthly housing allowance, provided they meet program guidelines, a newly constructed daycare and community center, library, health-care facilities, state-of-the-art fitness centers, a movie theater and a skate park.

Our dedicated Parks and Recreation Division plans activities for people of all ages, making sure there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Visit the Morenci town website to learn more.

This position will be based out of our Morenci, AZ mine site location.

This role is primarily responsible for managing and overseeing in-field activities related to recipe development and optimization test work and trials. The Senior Technician ensures the successful implementation and operation of field arrays, supports planning and execution of additive, heat, and raffinate injection trials, and facilitates timely sample collection and processing to generate actionable test results. The position requires significant site presence, especially at Morenci, and regular coordination with contractors and operators to ensure operational continuity.

Manage and oversee in-field activities for recipe development and optimization test work and trials, including Field Array trials to evaluate leaching uplift and technical aspects of additive development. Implement and operate field arrays and associated units, ensuring 24/7 operational readiness and troubleshooting as needed. Liaise with contractors and operators responsible for mixing/dosing additives, monitoring field array operations, and ensuring compliance with protocols.

Collect, process, and analyze samples to ensure expeditious generation of test results and support technical evaluations. Participate in planning phases of field test work to provide practical support during execution, including weekend standby as required. Perform additional duties as requested/required.

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in an engineering or technical area relevant to the assignment or mining industry
• Experience with field test work, sample collection, and basic analytical techniques
• Familiarity with leaching processes, additive mixing/dosing, and operation of field arrays or similar equipment
• Strong troubleshooting and problem‑solving skills in operational environments
• Ability to coordinate with contractors and site personnel, ensuring compliance and operational continuity
• Effective communication and organizational skills with strong time‑management ability
• Commitment to safety, environmental compliance, and operational excellence
• Willingness to work weekends and maintain required site presence

• Experience with recipe development, optimization trials, and technical support for mining or chemical processing operations
• Prior involvement in heat or raffinate injection trials
• Basic data analysis skills and familiarity with reporting protocols
• Leach Operations Experience

What We Offer You

The estimated annual pay range for this role is currently $31.00-$42.00/hour
. This range reflects base salary…