Hydromet EW Operator II

Freeport McMoRan Inc.; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 36,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision benefits

Life & disability insurance

401(k) with employer match

Paid time off and holidays

Tuition assistance

Employee Assistance Program

Discounted insurance plans (pet/auto/🏠

Internal progression opportunities

Job summary

Freeport-McMoRan Inc. is seeking a skilled Hydromet operator based in the United States. The role focuses on operating the electro-winning process and maintaining electrolytic cells, with responsibilities including process monitoring, sampling, and assisting with equipment maintenance.

The candidate should have two years of Hydromet processing experience, pass safety and aptitude assessments, and be prepared for a 24/7 operation schedule. Comprehensive benefits are offered as part of the package.

Qualifications

• Two years of experience in Hydromet processing operations.
• Demonstrated ability to pass required safety assessments and practical tests.

Responsibilities

• Operate electro-winning process equipment at a skilled level.
• Perform maintenance on electrolytic cells and related components.
• Monitor processes and adjust as needed.
• Harvest and ship copper cathodes and samples.
• Assist maintenance with equipment upkeep and cleaning.
• Mentor other employees and support supervision as needed.

Skills

Hydromet processing

Education

High School diploma or GED

Job description

At Freeport-McMoRan, we are committed to providing an employment package that recognizes excellence, encourages safe production and a culture supported by our core values. Here, you’ll find a collaborative environment where safety is a top priority, all opinions are valued, and people are empowered to grow in their career.

Where You Will Work

Chino is an open-pit copper mining complex located 15 miles from the historic mining community of Silver City in southwestern New Mexico. The historic Chino mine was among the world's first low-grade, open‑pit copper mines. Today, the operation consists of a 36,000-metric-ton-per-day concentrator that produces copper and a 150-million‑pound-per-year solvent extraction/electrowinning plant that produces copper cathode from solution generated by run‑of‑mine leaching.

The community of Silver City boasts various restaurants, arts, entertainment, cliff dwellings, festivals and much more. Residents and visitors enjoy gentle four seasons, with three hundred days of sunshine a year and low humidity. From unique shopping finds in the galleries to everyday groceries, schools and housing, there are numerous amenities for everyone. Visit Silver City to learn more.

What You Will Do

• Operates process equipment in the electro-winning process and completes maintenance of electrolytic cells at a highly skilled level.
• Operate process equipment in the electro-winning process
• Monitor the processes and make adjustments as needed
• Complete harvesting of copper cathodes
• Perform cell maintenance duties to include setting a jumper frame, draining cells, inspecting for damage, fixing leaks, hydro‑blasting, cleaning, repairing/replacing level boxes, and replacing buffer sheets and boards
• Perform starter sheet fabrication which may include operating a rigidizer, a loop slitter, and an upender
• Complete cathode pressing which may include detecting and correcting improper plating conditions, operating a cathode press, and ensuring proper cathode alignment
• Collect and run plant samples
• Complete various tasks related to the shipping of copper cathodes which may include weighing bundles, banding bundles, and loading trucks
• Assist maintenance personnel in performing equipment maintenance activities
• Operate a Stripping Machine to strip copper sheets
• Act as a Fill-in Supervisor as needed
• Mentor and train other employees
• Operate mobile equipment such as overhead cranes and forklifts
• Perform area housekeeping
• Perform other duties as required

What You Bring To Freeport

• Two (2) years of experience in Hydromet processing operations
• Must have completed academic and practical competencies required (this includes Line of Progression requirements for internal employees where LOP Exists) and have experience demonstrating the required aptitude. The selected candidate shall demonstrate the ability to apply knowledge and skills while also passing a written assessment where required. This exam is based on skills/abilities and/or academic knowledge; as well as safety.

Preferred Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED

What We Offer You

The estimated pay range for this role is currently$26.00 - $35.50/hour. This range reflects base salary only and does not include bonus payments, benefits or retirement contributions. Actual base pay is determined by experience, qualifications, skills and other job‑related factors. This role is eligible for additional discretionary and incentive payment considerations based on company and individual performance. More details will be shared during the hiring process.

• Affordable medical, dental and vision benefits
• Company‑paid life and disability insurance
• 401(k) plan with employer contribution/match
• Paid time off, paid sick time, holiday pay, parental leave
• Tuition assistance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Discounted insurance plans for pet, auto, home and vehicle
• Internal progression opportunities
• Learn more about our competitive and comprehensive benefits package!

What We Require

• Candidates may be required to pass a medical exam.
• Candidates must pass all required training and/or testing.
• Employees may be required to work a non‑standard schedule, which may include shift work (other than day shift) at a 24/7, 365‑day operation.
• Freeport-McMoRan promotes a drug/alcohol‑free work environment using mandatory pre-employment drug testing and on‑going drug and alcohol testing, as allowed by applicable laws.

Equal Opportunity Employer