Lead Process Engineer (Hydrometallurgy)

Job Summary:

We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Senior Hydrometallurgical Engineer to join our multidisciplinary team. This senior-level role is critical to leading the design, development, and execution of hydrometallurgical processes across a range of commodities (e.g., copper, nickel, cobalt, lithium, rare earths, gold). The successful candidate will provide technical leadership, mentor junior engineers, interface with clients, and support project delivery from early study phases through detailed engineering and commissioning.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the process design of hydrometallurgical circuits including leaching, solvent extraction, precipitation and related unit operations.
• Prepare, review, and approve technical deliverables such as mass balances, process flow diagrams (PFDs), piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs), equipment specifications, and datasheets.
• Oversee and interpret metallurgical test work programs and integrate results into process designs.
• Conduct process modelling and simulation using tools such as METSIM, Aspen, and others.
• Lead technical aspects of feasibility studies (scoping/conceptual, pre-feasibility, feasibility) and engineering phases (FEL1-FEL3, basic engineering).
• Mentor and supervise junior and intermediate engineers, providing guidance and technical oversight.
• Interface directly with clients, presenting process solutions, defending design choices, and building strong client relationships.
• Support procurement by developing equipment specifications, evaluating vendor bids, and reviewing technical documentation.
• Participate in and lead HAZOPs, design reviews, risk assessments, and constructability reviews.
• Provide technical support during project construction, commissioning, and ramp-up phases.
• Keep abreast of industry trends, new technologies, and regulatory changes in hydrometallurgy and mineral processing.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline.
• Minimum 10+ years of progressive experience in hydrometallurgical process engineering, with at least 3 years in a senior or lead role.
• Proven expertise in hydrometallurgical flowsheet development, design, and optimization.
• Strong knowledge of a broad range of hydrometallurgical processes.
• Proficient with process simulation software (e.g., METSIM, Aspen, LIMN) and advanced process design methodologies.
• Exceptional technical writing, analytical, and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated ability to mentor and develop junior engineers.
• Experience working in an EPCM environment or similar project-based organizations.
• Willingness to travel to project sites, domestic and international, as required.

Desirable Skills:

• Professional Engineer designation or equivalent professional certification.
• Direct commissioning, operational, or troubleshooting experience on hydrometallurgical plants.
• Experience with emerging battery metals processing technologies (e.g., lithium hydroxide, cobalt sulfate).
• Bilingual proficiency (English and [second language], depending on project locations) is an asset.

What We Offer:

• Leadership opportunity in world-class mining and metals projects.
• Competitive compensation package and performance incentives.
• Career development programs and professional training.
• A collaborative, innovative, and dynamic work environment.