Director of Metallurgical Development & Plant Optimization

Freeport McMoRan Inc.; Phoenix (AZ); Hybrid; USD 180,000 - 260,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision benefits

401(k) plan with match

Paid time off and holidays

Tuition assistance

Employee assistance program

Discounted insurance plans

Job summary

Freeport-McMoRan Inc. in Phoenix, AZ, is seeking a Director of Metallurgical Development for FMA Americas.

This hybrid role focuses on improving metallurgical performance, ore characterization, and overseeing SEC reporting of ore reserves, while shaping process flowsheets for plant expansions and major equipment sizing. You will lead internal teams and external partners, drive technology evaluation, maintain supplier relationships, and present updates to executive management; extensive travel

Qualifications

• BSc or BE with 10+ years in mineral processing or engineering.
• At least 5 years of mine-site experience.
• Specialized expertise in 3 metallurgy-related areas and broad knowledge in 4 more (crushing, grinding, flotation, leaching, smelting, hydrometallurgy, etc.).
• Proficiency in speaking, listening, and writing English.
• Ability to travel 60–90 days per year.

Responsibilities

• Strategic planning: identify opportunities, convert to projects and secure approvals.
• Technology and innovation: assess fit and value of technologies.
• Project execution: manage resources, meet schedule and cost targets, communicate status.
• Relationship building: engage internal teams, vendors, labs, and networks; mentor staff.
• Prepare updates for executive management and prepare technical materials for patents/conferences; organize site visits.

Skills

Metallurgy

Project Management

Leadership

Strategic Planning

English Communication

Education

BSc or BE in mineral processing/engineering

Tools

Process modeling

Simulation

Statistical analysis

Job description

Freeport-McMoRan Inc. in Phoenix, AZ, is seeking a Director of Metallurgical Development for FMA Americas.

This hybrid role focuses on improving metallurgical performance, ore characterization, and overseeing SEC reporting of ore reserves, while shaping process flowsheets for plant expansions and major equipment sizing. You will lead internal teams and external partners, drive technology evaluation, maintain supplier relationships, and present updates to executive management; extensive travel