R&D Metallurgical Engineer

Job Description:  Position is responsible for providing technical support work in a metallurgical laboratory specifically testing biotechnology products in mining & mineral processing applications

Key responsibilities are as follows:

• Perform hands-on metallurgy in a lab environment, including ore sample preparation and execution of laboratory test work programs (leaching, flotation, contact angle, XRF analysis, surface Tension, etc.)
• Compile, analyze, and communicate metallurgical data.
• Participate in pilot tests /plant trials and collaborate with the team to accurately interpret results.
• Incorporate safe work procedures in all processes while maintaining a safe work environment in the lab.
• Lead activities of the laboratory in liaison with the key internal stakeholders (R&D, Sales, Business Development) from concept to lab and field validation and product commercialization through a stage gated process.
• Collaborate on product selection and optimization discussions.
• Perform QC/QA testing on products.
• Support continuous product improvement.
• Mentor lab chemists while implementing a culture of safety and laboratory best practices to meet mining & metals industry requirements.
• Support business development and growth by building relationships with the R&D corporate centers of major E&P and services companies.
• Communicate the performance of Locus Mining Solutions chemistries via industry recognized publications and technical presentations internally and with customers externally.
• Interface with customers to obtain insight into their technical needs and to identify opportunities to collaborate with them on new projects.
• Under the guidance of the Technology and Mining Director execute the defined intellectual property strategy associated with new technology development and ensure that new product and technology developments are unique in nature and patentable.
• Support the preparation of mining and metals related patent applications.
• Perform all other duties as assigned. 

Qualifications & Requirements:

• M.Sc. degree in Chemical Engineering, Mineral Processing, Hydro Metallurgy, Mining Engineering or other relevant field and a minimum of a 2-year period work experience in the hydrometallurgical field.
• Previous experience required testing biosurfactants in mining and mineral processing.
• Demonstrated experience in mineral processing, hydro metallurgy and copper and/or gold metallurgy, including flowsheet development, bench scale test work required.
• Experience with leaching reagents and  with collectors and frothers in flotation.

General Skills

• Strong communication skills; both verbal and written.
• Ability to identify problems and execute standard procedures.
• Ability to manage and coordinate multiple projects in a fast-paced, highly professional environment.
• Acute attention to detail.
• Ability to use MS Word, Excel, Outlook efficiently. 

Physical Demands:The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to move through the laboratory 50% of the time and remain in a stationary position 50% of the time.  The employee will occasionally lift and or carry up to 25 lbs.  Employee will occasionally use computer, phone, copier and other office equipment in the course of a day. 

Work Environment:Work is performed in a temperature-controlled laboratory environment. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.