Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Metallurgy, or related field preferred
5+ years' experience in chemical processing or hydrometallurgy
Experience with Design of Experiments (DOE) and statistical analysis
Hands-on experience with reactors and filtration systems
Advanced proficiency in Excel, including pivot tables and data visualization
Strong knowledge of purification techniques
Excellent attention to detail and strong analytical skills
Responsibilities
Develop DOE protocols for chemical extraction and purification
Analyze metallurgical data to find trends and optimization opportunities
Operate various chemical processing equipment at bench and pilot scale
Prepare chemical solutions and monitor process parameters
Collect and evaluate experimental data, ensuring accuracy
Generate data visualizations, charts, and reports
Conduct safety assessments for chemical processes
Benefits
Opportunity to work on leading-edge hydrometallurgical projects
Exposure to advanced process optimization techniques
Hands-on role in a collaborative lab environment
Emphasis on safety with protocols and training
Professional development in a growing field of critical minerals
Full Job Description
The Role
The R&D Metallurgist designs, executes, and analyzes experiments to advance Mariana Minerals' hydrometallurgical testing programs. This hands-on laboratory and pilot-scale role focuses on running DOE protocols, operating tank reactors and mining systems, and analyzing data to optimize extraction for critical minerals.
What You'll Do
Develop Design of Experiments (DOE) protocols for chemical processing, extraction, and purification
Analyze metallurgical and process data to identify trends, root causes, and optimization opportunities
Operate tank reactors, filtration systems, separation equipment, and purification units at bench and pilot scale
Prepare chemical solutions and reagents according to experimental specifications
Monitor and control process parameters: temperature, pH, flow rates, residence time, and reagent dosing
Perform systematic sampling and material handling throughout process streams
Collect experimental data including process parameters, weights, volumes, and analytical results
Analyze data using Excel and statistical tools to evaluate performance and identify optimization opportunities
Generate clear data visualizations, charts, and summary reports
Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks and digital documentation
Support DOE planning and multi-variable optimization studies
Perform routine maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of processing equipment
Follow all chemical handling, PPE, and MSHA/OSHA safety protocols
Maintain clean, organized, and safe laboratory environments
Conduct hazard assessments for chemical processes and experimental setups
Desired Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Metallurgy, or related technical field preferred
5+ years' experience in chemical processing, hydrometallurgy, or laboratory/pilot plant operations
Experience with Design of Experiments (DOE) methodology and statistical analysis highly desirable
Hands-on experience with chemical reactors, filtration, and separation equipment
Advanced Excel proficiency (pivot tables, statistical functions, data visualization)
Understanding of chemical process fundamentals (mass balance, stoichiometry, reaction kinetics)
Knowledge of purification techniques (precipitation, solvent extraction, ion exchange, crystallization)
Ability to read P&IDs and process flow diagrams
Experience with DOE software (JMP, Minitab, Design-Expert) is a plus
Exceptional attention to detail and data integrity
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Excellent communication and documentation abilities
Self-motivated with ability to manage multiple experiments
