Senior Process Metallurgist - Hydrometallurgist

DRA Global; Phoenix (AZ); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering consulting firm is seeking a highly skilled Senior Process Metallurgist – Hydrometallurgy to join their team in Phoenix, AZ. This role offers the opportunity to drive hydrometallurgical process design and optimization in diverse mining projects. Ideal candidates will have over 10 years of experience in the mining and mineral processing industry, along with expertise in leaching and solvent extraction processes. The position emphasizes maintaining high-quality standards and delivering innovative solutions.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in hydrometallurgical process development and design within mining.
• Proven expertise in leaching (heap, agitated, or in situ) and solvent extraction.
• Hands-on experience with laboratory and pilot-scale test programs.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize hydrometallurgical flowsheets for various metals.
• Conduct bench‑scale and pilot‑scale testing to evaluate process performance.
• Provide technical expertise for commissioning and troubleshooting during project execution.

Skills

Process Development

Hydrometallurgy

Technical Reporting

Operational Support

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Metallurgical, Process, or Chemical Engineering

PhD in Metallurgy

Job description

Senior Process Metallurgist – Hydrometallurgist

DRA Global is a diversified, global engineering, project delivery and operations management group with an impressive track record spanning over three decades. As the Partner of first choice, DRA Global aims to attract, recruit and retain the best talent in the marketplace; in doing so we have developed a solid organizational culture focused on Safety, Integrity, Courage, Innovation, Trust and People to ultimately deliver the best results for clients.

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Process Metallurgist – Hydrometallurgy to join our team in Phoenix, AZ. This role offers an exciting opportunity to work with a leading engineering consulting firm specializing in the Mining and Mineral Processing industry. The successful candidate will play a key role in delivering innovative solutions to our clients by driving hydrometallurgical process design and optimization in diverse mining projects worldwide. The ideal candidate will bring a strong technical background in hydrometallurgy, project leadership skills, and a passion for solving complex challenges in extractive metallurgy.

Key Roles and Responsibilities

• Process Design and Development:
  • Develop and optimize hydrometallurgical flowsheets for various metals, including copper, nickel, cobalt, lithium, and gold.
  • Conduct bench‑scale and pilot‑scale testing to evaluate process performance and recommend design improvements.
  • Lead the development of process block flow diagrams (BFDs), process flow diagrams (PFDs), mass balances, and P&IDs.
  • Oversee hydrometallurgical process aspects of feasibility studies, including scoping, pre‑feasibility, and definitive feasibility studies (NI43‑101 or JORC compliant).
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams, providing technical input for equipment selection, layout, and integration.
  • Act as a key liaison with clients, ensuring alignment with project objectives and maintaining high‑quality standards.
• Operational Support:
  • Provide technical expertise for commissioning, troubleshooting, and process optimization during project execution and plant operations.
  • Deliver training and mentoring to junior metallurgists and engineers to build technical capacity within the team.
• Technical Reporting and Communication:
  • Prepare detailed technical reports, client presentations, and proposals.
  • Stay updated on industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory requirements in hydrometallurgy.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Metallurgical, Process, or Chemical Engineering. A PhD in Metallurgy is considered an asset.
• 10+ years of experience in hydrometallurgical process development and design within the mining and mineral processing industry.
• Proven expertise in leaching (heap, agitated, or in situ), solvent extraction, ion exchange, electrowinning, or precipitation processes.
• Hands‑on experience with laboratory and pilot‑scale test programs.
• Knowledge of applicable industry standards, including NI43‑101 and JORC reporting guidelines.

Physical Requirements

While performing duties of this job, you may be required to stand, sit in a stationary position 50% of the time, alternate between sitting and standing, push/pull as necessary, reach overhead or below shoulder level, kneel, squat, or stoop. May be required on occasion to lift and carry items such as files, documents, or small packages, typically up to 10–20 pounds. Frequent use of hands and fingers to operate a computer keyboard and other office equipment. Close visual acuity to perform activities such as reading, analyzing data, and working on a computer.

Employment Type

Permanent

Equal Opportunity and Diversity

DRA Global is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We believe that diversity strengthens our ability to reach our goals, enhances our reputation, and helps us attract, engage, and retain great people.

We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of gender, age, disability, ethnicity, or any other characteristic. Our values — People, Safety, Trust, Integrity, Excellence, and Courage — reflect our ongoing commitment to equal opportunities and an inclusive culture.