Plant Metallurgist

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 Functions

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.  

1. Data Analysis and Reporting: Analyze 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.
2. Maintain Plant KPIs: Copper recoveries, reagent consumption, SX/EW efficiencies, chemistry controls, etc.
3. Process Optimization: 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.
4. Troubleshooting and Problem-solving: 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.
5. Quality Control: Assist in monitoring and maintaining product quality standards throughout the production process. Implement quality control measures and protocols as needed.
6. Compliance and Safety: 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.
7. Research and Development: Stay abreast of industry developments, emerging technologies, and best practices in Metallurgy. Participate in research projects and innovation initiatives aimed at advancing metallurgical processes.
8. Continuous Improvement: 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.

Competencies

1. Problem Solving/Analysis
2. Ethical Conduct
3. Communication Proficiency
4. Learning Orientation  
5. Continuous Improvement Mindset (Lean, Six Sigma, Kaizen) 

Supervisory Responsibility

This position does not supervise other employees.

Work Environment

This 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 Demands

The 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. 

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position, and work hours/days are generally Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5 p.m.  Work hours will occasionally require overtime and nights, per business need.

Travel

Travel is not expected, but may occasionally occur for educational/career development purposes.

Work Authorization/Security Clearance

Authorized to work in the U.S.

AAP/EEO Statement 

Milford Mining Company is an equal opportunity employer

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice. 

 Required Education and Experience

1. Experience at two processing plants
2. 4-6 years of related experience
3. Bachelor’s degree in metallurgical, chemical or mineral processing engineering
4. Demonstrated experience or training in continuous improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma, or Kaizen), with the ability to apply structured problem-solving techniques in an industrial environment

Preferred Education and Experience

1. Understanding of computer science, programming and/or computer experience
2. Distributed Control System knowledge
3. Project Experience or Project training is a plus
4. Strong understanding of metallurgical principles and processes, particularly related to copper extraction and refining 
5. Proficiency in laboratory techniques, data analysis, and experimental design
6. Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot technical issues
7. Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams
8. Detail-oriented and able to work independently with minimal supervision
9. Six Sigma certification (Green Belt or higher) or formal Lean/Kaizen training strongly preferred