Process Modeling Engineer – Mineral Refining & Simulation

Mariana Minerals; Houston, Northern (TX, KY); Hybrid; USD 140,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

Mariana Minerals is seeking a Staff Process Modeling Engineer to advance next-generation refining processes for critical minerals. You will develop, validate, and optimize heat and material balance models using leading tools.

You will lead modeling standards, mentor junior engineers, and collaborate with R&D, pilot ops, and project teams to translate lab data into scalable process models used in plant design.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Chemical Engineering or closely related field.
• 8+ years of experience in process simulation for chemical processing or refining.
• Proficiency with ASPEN Plus, SysCAD, OLI or METSIM tools.
• Strong understanding of mass/energy balances and heat transfer.
• Experience with Python or MATLAB for automation is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop steady-state and dynamic process models for integrated mineral refinery systems using ASPEN, SysCAD, OLI, or METSIM.
• Automate equipment sizing (reactors, heat exchangers, filters, crystallizers, evaporators, separators) based on model outputs and link to datasheets.
• Develop and maintain process simulation databases with traceability of assumptions and data.
• Calibrate and reconcile models using pilot or plant data to ensure fidelity.
• Conduct process optimization studies—energy/heat recovery, recycle strategies, material efficiency.
• Develop dynamic process models to validate PLC and DCS programming and optimize buffer sizing.
• Link process models to CAPEX and OPEX estimation tools, automating technoeconomic model development.
• Document modeling methodologies and results for design reviews and regulatory submissions.

Skills

Process modeling

Python / MATLAB

Data processing

Model validation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

ASPEN Plus / HYSYS

SysCAD

OLI Studio / OLI Flowsheet

METSIM

Job description

Mariana Minerals is seeking a Staff Process Modeling Engineer to advance next-generation refining processes for critical minerals. You will develop, validate, and optimize heat and material balance models using leading tools.

You will lead modeling standards, mentor junior engineers, and collaborate with R&D, pilot ops, and project teams to translate lab data into scalable process models used in plant design.