Lead Process Development Engineer

Job Description

Lead Process Development Engineer – Mining Technology

Location: United States (Relocation & Travel Required)

Sector: Mining | Minerals Processing | Technology Scale-Up

We’re partnering with an innovative engineering team advancing next-generation mineral processing technology. This role is ideal for an engineer who wants to do more than maintain plant performance — someone motivated to optimize, evolve, and scale advanced processing systems from pilot through commercial deployment. This is a hands-on, high-impact opportunity focused on improving and advancing breakthrough processing technology, integrating it into real-world operations, and shaping its future direction. This position provides a platform for domestic and international travel, working closely with operating facilities and EPC partners to implement and optimize next-generation mineral processing systems and help revolutionize the industry.

What You’ll Do

• Lead hands-on process optimization and engineering initiatives in mineral processing, with a focus on high-pressure slurry ablation and advanced size-reduction technologies
• Design, implement, and analyze comparative trials between emerging processing technologies and traditional grinding methods
• Develop and execute pilot and commercial plant test programs
• Set up and manage sampling campaigns, data collection, and performance analysis
• Interpret results and drive measurable process improvements
• Design process flowsheets and support circuit integration into existing operations
• Develop PFDs, P&IDs, control narratives, and detailed technical documentation
• Troubleshoot operational, wear, and maintenance challenges in process equipment
• Support on-site installations, commissioning, and performance validation
• Collaborate closely with engineering, operations, and business teams to align technical decisions with strategic goals
• Communicate technical findings clearly, explaining project impact and system improvements
• Take ownership of projects and work independently while contributing to team-wide innovation

What You Bring

• Degree in Mining, Metallurgical, Chemical, or Process Engineering
• Experience in mining and minerals processing (especially copper, iron, and phosphate)
• Strong hands-on expertise with pilot and commercial plant process engineering, including process design, test runs and commissioning, troubleshooting and optimization
• Experience designing and analyzing experimental programs comparing new and traditional mineral processing methods
• Familiarity with high-pressure slurry ablation (HPSA) or similar advanced processing technologies
• Proficiency with process simulation and modeling software (e.g., MetSim, Bruno)
• Laboratory experience in particle size reduction, filtration, flocculent screening, and analytical methods (ICP, XRF)
• Comfort managing wear and maintenance issues in processing equipment
• Strong technical reporting and documentation skills
• Ability to work independently and take ownership of complex initiatives
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to clearly explain technical decisions and results
• Willingness to relocate and travel domestically and internationally to operating sites, pilot facilities, and EPC partners as needed
• Spanish language skills and Latin America experience are a plus
• Open to candidates with TN status or existing H1-B visa authorization (no new sponsorship available)

Why This Role Stands Out

• Opportunity to advance and scale transformative mineral processing technology
• Direct influence on technical roadmap and system evolution
• High visibility within a collaborative, growth-oriented engineering team
• Clear runway for professional growth as technology adoption expands
• Competitive compensation, bonus structure, and comprehensive benefits

MRC Recruiting
📧 Samantha@MRCrecruiting.com 
📞  775-291-3062