Chief Metallurgist

Job Description

Chief Metallurgist

About the Opportunity
Our client runs an established open-pit mining operation with both a concentrator and a hydrometallurgical circuit. They're looking for an experienced Chief Metallurgist to lead the metallurgical function and help guide the site's processing performance.

This is a role with real influence. You won't just be optimizing a process, you'll be leading a team, shaping how the operation runs day to day, and helping set the direction for what comes next.

What You'll Do
Process Optimization

• Oversee and optimize metallurgical extraction processes to maximize resource recovery and maintain product quality

Team Leadership

• Lead and mentor a team of metallurgists, engineers, and technicians, building a collaborative and innovative work environment

Process Improvement

• Stay current on industry advancements and bring in new technologies and techniques to improve metallurgical processes

Quality Control

• Implement and monitor quality control measures to keep processes aligned with established standards and specifications

Environmental Compliance

• Work alongside environmental teams to ensure metallurgical processes align with sustainability and environmental regulations

Project Management

• Manage metallurgical projects from start to finish, keeping them on time, on budget, and aligned with safety and environmental standards

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with mining, geology, and engineering teams to improve overall operational efficiency

Reporting

• Build clear reports on metallurgical processes and production efficiency that support strategic decision-making

What You Bring
Education

• Bachelor's degree in Metallurgical Engineering, Mineral Processing, or a related field. An advanced degree is a plus

Experience

• 8+ years of progressive experience in metallurgical roles, including at least 2 years in a leadership position
• Experience in base or precious metal mining operations
• MSHA training certification, or the ability to obtain it

Key Skills

• Strong understanding of metallurgical processes, mineralogy, and mineral processing equipment
• Proven ability to lead and motivate a technical team
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to translate complex technical information for different audiences
• Sharp analytical and problem-solving skills
• Experience implementing and enforcing safety protocols in metallurgical operations
• Familiarity with environmental regulations and a commitment to sustainable, responsible mining

Physical Requirements

• Able to perform essential physical functions, including climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, and repetitive motion
• Able to operate a telephone and mine phone or radio, with sufficient voice and hearing to communicate clearly with management
• Able to lift up to 25 pounds periodically
• Valid driver's license, with the ability to operate a light vehicle

A Note on Fit
We understand no candidate will meet every single desired qualification. If your experience looks a little different from what we've identified and you think you can bring value to the role, we'd love to learn more about you!

Contact
Heather Simoens
970-209-2890
Heather@MRCrecruiting.com