PHNX Materials · 17 hours ago
Critical Metallurgical Engineer Intern
San Leandro, CA
Internship
Onsite
InternPHNX Materials is a company that refines coal ash waste into critical products, utilizing proprietary technology to extract valuable minerals. They are seeking a Metallurgical Engineer intern to assist in pilot plant operations, process optimization, and data analysis to help validate extraction processes and troubleshoot metallurgical challenges.
Environmental EngineeringManufacturingNatural Resources
No H1B
U.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Pilot Plant Operations: Assist in the operation of bench and pilot-scale equipment, including leaching reactors, filter presses, crushers, and precipitation circuits
Process Optimization: Run experiments to optimize recovery rates for Aluminum, Rare Earth Elements (REEs), and Titanium from coal ash feedstocks
Data Analysis: Collect, log, and analyze process data (pH, temperature, flow rates, residence time) to support mass balance calculations and scale-up decisions
Sample Characterization: Prepare samples for analysis (ICP, XRD, XRF) and interpret results to validate process efficiency
Troubleshooting: Identify operational bottlenecks or mechanical issues in the hydrometallurgical circuit and propose practical engineering solutions
Safety First: strictly adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) regarding chemical handling (acids/bases) and personal protective equipment (PPE)
Qualification
Required
Currently pursuing a B.S. or M.S. in Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or Mineral Processing
Understanding of metallurgical principles (leaching, solvent extraction, precipitation) and mineral processing basics (comminution, sizing)
Comfortable working in an industrial/lab environment; not afraid to get your hands dirty or use hand tools
Proficiency in Excel for data analysis; experience with design of experiments (DoE) or process modeling software (e.g., Aspen, HSC Chemistry) is a plus
Strong communication skills and the ability to thrive in a scrappy, undefined, and high-energy startup atmosphere
Preferred
Experience with analytical equipment (SEM, XRD, PSA)
Forklift certification or safety training (HAZWOPER)
Previous internship experience in mining, chemical processing, or semiconductor manufacturing
Benefits
A rare opportunity to design and launch a facility that takes on some of the world’s toughest environmental challenges.
A fast-paced, mission-driven startup culture where your ideas matter, your work has immediate impact, and your career can grow as quickly as we do.
The chance to transform heavy industries and be part of a movement rewriting the future of manufacturing and national security.
Company
PHNX Materials
PHNX Materials is a manufacturing company that specializes in turning waste into essential materials and reduce carbon emissions.
Founded in 2024
2-10 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Early StageTotal Funding
$2.5MKey Investors
Divergent Capital
2025-04-21Seed· $2.5M
Recent News
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