R&D Metallurgist

Mariana Minerals is a software-first, vertically integrated minerals company on a mission to supply the critical minerals powering modern energy, AI, and defense technologies. We’re reimagining the minerals supply chain by combining deep industry expertise with advanced software, automation, and data-driven decision-making.

• 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.

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  Develop Design of Experiments (DOE) protocols for chemical processing, extraction, and purification

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  Analyze metallurgical and process data to identify trends, root causes, and optimization opportunities

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  Operate tank reactors, filtration systems, separation equipment, and purification units at bench and pilot scale

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  Prepare chemical solutions and reagents according to experimental specifications

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  Monitor and control process parameters: temperature, pH, flow rates, residence time, and reagent dosing

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  Perform systematic sampling and material handling throughout process streams

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  Collect experimental data including process parameters, weights, volumes, and analytical results

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  Analyze data using Excel and statistical tools to evaluate performance and identify optimization opportunities

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  Generate clear data visualizations, charts, and summary reports

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  Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks and digital documentation

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  Support DOE planning and multi-variable optimization studies

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  Perform routine maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of processing equipment

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  Follow all chemical handling, PPE, and MSHA/OSHA safety protocols

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  Maintain clean, organized, and safe laboratory environments

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  Conduct hazard assessments for chemical processes and experimental setups

• 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

• Unwavering commitment to safety and quality

• Valid driver's license required