Mariana Minerals · 5 months ago
Hydrometallurgical Process Engineer
Moab Office
Full-time
Onsite
Mid, Senior Level
3+ years expMariana Minerals is a software-first, vertically integrated minerals company focused on supplying critical minerals for modern energy, AI, and defense technologies. They are seeking a dynamic and experienced Hydrometallurgy Process Engineer to optimize copper refining operations, drive safety, production efficiency, and foster a high-performance culture among a multidisciplinary team. The role involves overseeing heap leach operations, implementing process improvements, and leading plant expansions while ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
Mining & Metals
Responsibilities
Oversee all aspects of the heap leach operation, including crushing, stacking, leaching, solvent extraction, and electrowinning, ensuring maximum process efficiency and cost-effectiveness
Identify and implement process improvements to enhance recovery rates, reduce downtime, and lower operating costs—backed by specific, quantifiable examples (e.g., increased PLS grade, reduced acid consumption, improved stacking methodology)
Lead plant expansions, debottlenecking projects, and greenfield developments, demonstrating clear ROI (e.g., increased throughput, reduced maintenance costs)
Optimize leach pad management (lift height, irrigation rates, aeration) to maximize copper recovery and minimize operational risks
Foster a zero-harm culture, with a track record of safety program enhancements (e.g., reduced TRIFR, improved near-miss reporting, behavioral-based safety initiatives)
Ensure full compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations across all leaching and processing activities
Drive reliability-centered maintenance (RCM) strategies, with examples of predictive/preventive maintenance reducing downtime or extending asset life
Oversee maintenance planning and execution to minimize production impact (e.g., optimized crusher liner changes, conveyor belt replacements)
Demonstrated experience with fixed plant maintenance, asset management systems (SAP, JDE), and spare parts optimization
Lead, mentor, and collaborate with large teams (30+ personnel) across operations, maintenance, and technical services
Provide examples of improving workforce engagement, such as: Implementing performance-based incentives that boosted productivity. Resolving labor inefficiencies through training, accountability, or workflow redesign. Cultivating a positive work culture that reduced turnover and improved collaboration
Qualification
Required
3+ years in copper heap leach/SX/EW operations, with at least 5 years in leadership roles managing large operations teams
Proven track record of delivering measurable improvements—must be able to articulate specific projects where your actions led to: Cost savings (e.g., reduced reagent consumption, lower maintenance spend), Production increases (e.g., higher PLS grades, improved stacking rates), Safety improvements (e.g., reduced incidents, better compliance)
Experience in greenfield/brownfield expansions, crushing/conveying optimization, or leach pad design is highly desirable
Strong financial acumen with the ability to justify capital projects and demonstrate clear payback periods
Exceptional communication and leadership skills, with a history of building high-performing teams
Preferred
Proficiency in lean mining, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies
Familiarity with planning software and ERP systems (SAP, Pronto)
Benefits
Competitive compensation
Comprehensive benefits
Significant career growth potential
Company
Mariana Minerals
Mariana Minerals is a software-first, vertically integrated minerals company focused on supplying the minerals critical to modern energy, AI, and defense technologies.
11-50 employees
H1B Sponsorship
Mariana Minerals has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
Represents job field similar to this job
Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (7)
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageCompany data provided by crunchbase