Process Engineer

Lithium Nevada, LLC; Nevada (IA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Lithium Nevada, LLC is seeking a Process Engineer to support the commissioning and operation of lithium processing facilities at Thacker Pass. The role involves troubleshooting process issues, driving continuous improvement, and ensuring safety and efficiency standards are met.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and 3–10 years of experience in a chemical processing facility. Strong project management and communication skills are essential, along with a commitment to safety and teamwork.

Qualifications

• 3–10 years’ experience as a Process Engineer in a chemical processing facility.
• Familiarity with OSHA Process Safety Management (PSM) or MSHA regulations, preferred.
• Strong understanding of chemical process engineering principles and unit operations.

Responsibilities

• Support pre‑commissioning, commissioning, and start‑up activities.
• Provide day‑to‑day process engineering support to Operations.
• Develop and manage capital projects for plant safety and efficiency.

Skills

Chemical process engineering principles

Effective communication skills

Project management

Interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office 365

DCS control systems

Job description

Role Overview

We are seeking a Process Engineer to join our team. In this role you will support Lithium Americas’ efforts in safely and effectively building, commissioning, and operating the sulfuric acid plant and lithium processing facilities at Thacker Pass. You will serve as a technical resource to the facility, support operations, troubleshoot process issues, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. The position is based in Winnemucca, NV and reports to the Site Engineering Manager.

Responsibilities

• Support pre‑commissioning, commissioning, and start‑up activities for the Thacker Pass Sulfuric Acid Plant and Lithium Processing Facility in coordination with the Commissioning and Start‑Up team.
• Provide day‑to‑day process engineering support to Operations, assisting with troubleshooting and optimization of equipment and processes.
• Investigate operational issues using process data and trends from the DCS historian.
• Develop and manage capital projects that improve safety, throughput, and efficiency in the processing plant.
• Oversee contractors performing maintenance and sustaining projects on‑site, ensuring work is completed safely and efficiently.
• Provide advice and technical guidance to contractors, employees, and consultants to ensure company and corporate standards are applied and maintained.
• Review, create, and implement a positive safety and environmentally sound culture with the right procedures and programs for the Thacker Pass Processing facility.
• Develop systems and processes that track and optimize productivity and standards, metrics, and performance targets to ensure effective return on assets.
• Build and maintain trusted relationships across all teams while championing a culture that reflects and supports our Purpose, Vision, and Values.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field.
• 3–10 years’ experience as a Process Engineer in a chemical processing facility.
• Strong understanding of chemical process engineering principles and unit operations.
• Familiarity with OSHA Process Safety Management (PSM) or MSHA regulations, preferred.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and teamwork.
• Personal commitment to Lithium Americas’ core Purpose, Vision, and Values.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills with the ability to motivate teams toward common goals.
• Proven ability to manage several projects in parallel, while prioritizing and pursuing critical‑path tasks on an accelerated schedule.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate effectively across teams.
• Ability to critically challenge assumptions, think outside the box, and deliver creative solutions.
• Self‑starter: highly motivated, able to work independently, with high energy.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, Project, Teams, etc.).
• Familiarity with DCS control systems and data historian platforms.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Lithium Americas is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, gender, disability, age, veteran status, religion, sexual orientation, or any other protected status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.