3.1. Principal Chemical Process Engineer-Separation

Phoenix Tailings Inc.; Burlington (MA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

100% Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Stock options

Unlimited PTO

Learning and development opportunities

Job summary

Phoenix Tailings Inc. is seeking a skilled engineer for solvent extraction process optimization in Burlington, Massachusetts. The successful candidate will lead the development of extraction circuits and execute experiments, requiring a Ph.D. or M.S. in a relevant field plus 8+ years of experience. Compensation ranges from $150,000 to $180,000, including equity options, with benefits including 100% healthcare coverage and unlimited PTO.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of relevant experience in chemical engineering or metallurgy.
• Hands-on experience with lab-scale and pilot-scale solvent extraction systems.
• Deep understanding of phase equilibria, thermodynamics, and kinetics.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and optimization of solvent extraction circuits.
• Design and execute pilot-scale experiments.
• Collaborate with engineering and operations teams for commissioned plant support.

Skills

Expertise in solvent extraction

Process optimization

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Education

Ph.D. or M.S. in Chemical Engineering or Metallurgical Engineering

Tools

Aspen

METSIM

Job description

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the development and optimization of solvent extraction circuits for rare earth element separation from both primary and secondary sources
• Design and execute bench- and pilot-scale experiments to evaluate separation efficiency, reagent performance, and system dynamics
• Translate laboratory-scale successes into scalable, industrial processes with a focus on safety, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness
• Own and evolve process flow diagrams (PFDs), mass balances, and P&IDs for solvent extraction systems
• Drive selection and specification of extractants, diluents, and equipment (e.g., mixer-settlers, columns, or centrifugal contactors)
• Analyze separation performance data to identify improvement opportunities and implement process changes
• Collaborate closely with metallurgy, chemical engineering, and operations teams to support plant commissioning and troubleshooting
• Author technical reports, scale-up plans, and design documentation to support commercialization of Phoenix Tailings' extraction technologies
• Stay at the forefront of solvent extraction technologies and rare earth processing trends to inform and elevate process strategy

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. or M.S. in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, or related discipline with 8+ years of relevant experience
• Proven expertise in rare earth element/critical metals separation via solvent extraction, including reagent chemistry, process configuration, and optimization
• Hands‑on experience with lab‑scale and pilot‑scale solvent extraction systems, including safety and operational best practices
• Deep understanding of phase equilibria, thermodynamics, and kinetics relevant to solvent extraction
• Demonstrated success in scaling up chemical separation processes from bench to pilot to commercial scale
• Proficiency with process modeling tools (e.g., Aspen, METSIM, or similar)
• Excellent problem‑solving skills with a passion for experimental validation and continuous improvement
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, especially in cross‑disciplinary environments

Compensation and Benefits:

This pay range reflects best estimate for the total cash compensation which includes salary + discretionary bonus for this role. Total package may vary based on experience and qualifications.

Pay Range: $150,000- $180,000 total cash compensation plus equity

• Healthcare: 100% Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employee
• Stock Options: Ownership in a fast‑growing venture‑backed company.
• Time Off: Unlimited PTO.
• Learning: Learning and development opportunities to grow your skills and career.