Plant Metallurgist
Listed on 2026-07-16
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Engineering
Process Engineer, Quality Engineering, Lean Manufacturing / Six Sigma -
Manufacturing / Production
Quality Engineering, Lean Manufacturing / Six Sigma
Description
The Plant Metallurgist position will assist with laboratory experiments and tests to evaluate the performance of metallurgical processes, including flotation, leaching, solvent extraction, and electrowinning. They will work closely with the metallurgical and operations teams to support production, optimize process efficiency, and actively contribute to continuous improvement initiatives using Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen methodologies.
This role requires significant time in the processing plant, working directly with operations personnel and equipment to observe, troubleshoot, and optimize metallurgical performance in a hands‑on, industrial environment.
Essential FunctionsAnalyze test results and data to identify trends, anomalies, and opportunities for process improvement. Prepare comprehensive reports documenting findings and recommendations. Apply data‑driven methodologies consistent with Six Sigma principles to support decision‑making.
Copper recoveries, reagent consumption, SX/EW efficiencies, chemistry controls, etc.
Collaborate with senior metallurgical staff and operations teams to identify and implement process optimization initiatives aimed at maximizing recovery, reducing costs, and improving product quality. Regularly engage in plant walkthroughs and field observations to validate performance and identify improvement opportunities.
Participate in troubleshooting efforts to address process issues, equipment malfunctions, and other challenges that arise during production. Utilize root cause analysis tools to resolve issues and prevent recurrence. This includes direct, hands‑on involvement in plant troubleshooting activities.
Assist in monitoring and maintaining product quality standards throughout the production process. Implement quality control measures and protocols as needed.
Ensure that metallurgical processes comply with regulatory requirements, environmental standards, and safety protocols. Participate in safety meetings and initiatives to promote a culture of safety.
Stay abreast of industry developments, emerging technologies, and best practices in Metallurgy. Participate in research projects and innovation initiatives aimed at advancing metallurgical processes.
Actively participate in and support a culture of Lean manufacturing, Six Sigma, and Kaizen, identifying waste, improving process flow, and driving sustainable improvements across plant operations.
This position does not supervise other employees.
Work EnvironmentThis job operates in a combination of office and mine processing settings. A substantial portion of time will be spent in the processing plant, working in close proximity to operating equipment and actively engaged with plant operations. This role requires working outdoors in seasonally appropriate weather in all conditions as needed – heat, cold, wind, rain, snow.
The facility is an operating industrial plant processing copper ore. The employee will be exposed to dirt, slurry, mud, hazardous chemicals, noise, dust and other conditions normally found in an industrial mineral processing facility. The employee must be able to wear the proper personal protective equipment as provided by the company and as safe conditions require.
Physical DemandsThe physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.
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