Chief Metallurgist

About the Opportunity
Our client runs an established open-pit mining operation with both a concentrator and a hydrometallurgical circuit. They're looking for an experienced Chief Metallurgist to lead the metallurgical function and help guide the site's processing performance.

This is a role with real influence. You won't just be optimizing a process, you'll be leading a team, shaping how the operation runs day to day, and helping set the direction for what comes next.

What You'll Do
Process Optimization

Oversee and optimize metallurgical extraction processes to maximize resource recovery and maintain product quality

Team Leadership

Lead and mentor a team of metallurgists, engineers, and technicians, building a collaborative and innovative work environment

Process Improvement

Stay current on industry advancements and bring in new technologies and techniques to improve metallurgical processes

Quality Control

Implement and monitor quality control measures to keep processes aligned with established standards and specifications

Environmental Compliance

Work alongside environmental teams to ensure metallurgical processes align with sustainability and environmental regulations

Project Management

Manage metallurgical projects from start to finish, keeping them on time, on budget, and aligned with safety and environmental standards

Cross-Functional Collaboration

Partner with mining, geology, and engineering teams to improve overall operational efficiency

Reporting

Build clear reports on metallurgical processes and production efficiency that support strategic decision-making

What You Bring
Education

Bachelor's degree in Metallurgical Engineering, Mineral Processing, or a related field. An advanced degree is a plus

Experience

8+ years of progressive experience in metallurgical roles, including at least 2 years in a leadership position
Experience in base or precious metal mining operations
MSHA training certification, or the ability to obtain it

Key Skills

Strong understanding of metallurgical processes, mineralogy, and mineral processing equipment
Proven ability to lead and motivate a technical team
Strong communication skills, with the ability to translate complex technical information for different audiences
Sharp analytical and problem-solving skills
Experience implementing and enforcing safety protocols in metallurgical operations
Familiarity with environmental regulations and a commitment to sustainable, responsible mining

Physical Requirements

Able to perform essential physical functions, including climbing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, and repetitive motion
Able to operate a telephone and mine phone or radio, with sufficient voice and hearing to communicate clearly with management
Able to lift up to 25 pounds periodically
Valid driver's license, with the ability to operate a light vehicle

A Note on Fit
We understand no candidate will meet every single desired qualification. If your experience looks a little different from what we've identified and you think you can bring value to the role, we'd love to learn more about you!

Contact
Heather Simoens
970-209-2890
Heather@MRCrecruiting.com