Chemist

ASARCO

7h

About The Position

The Chemist supports site operations by providing accurate, timely analytical
data on ore, process streams, and products. This role performs chemical
analyses; operates and maintains lab instrumentation; applies QA/QC practices;
and supports method development and continuous improvement. Depending on
experience, the Chemist may also lead method development and validation, support
or oversee QA/QC programs, mentor other lab staff, and participate in audits and
improvement projects. The Chemist is expected to promote a strong safety culture
and ensure compliance with MSHA, EPA, State, and Company requirements.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related scientific field.
• Experience with wet chemistry and instrumental techniques (e.g., AAS, XRF) in an industrial or academic lab.
• 0–5 years of relevant laboratory experience in analytical or inorganic chemistry, preferably in mining, minerals, or process industries.
• Ability to understand and apply scientific methodology and QA/QC principles.
• Strong technical, analytical, and troubleshooting skills with laboratory instruments and methods.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook); familiarity with LIMS or similar systems.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced lab.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Physically capable of working in a mining environment with appropriate PPE; able to lift up to 50 lbs. and stand for extended periods, with potential exposure to chemicals, heat, noise, and dust.
• English language fluency.
• At least CEFR B2 - Upper Intermediate: Can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions English language fluency.

Nice To Haves

• Master’s degree (or equivalent experience) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Process Metallurgy, or related discipline.
• Several (typically 5+) years of progressively responsible experience in analytical or metallurgical/process laboratories, preferably in copper or mining operations.
• Experience in method development/validation, advanced QA/QC, and mentoring or informal supervision.
• Demonstrated experience with copper assays and metallurgical QC (e.g., ASCu, RSCu, FSCu, TCu, leach tests).
• Experience with Lean Six Sigma or continuous improvement and with mining LIMS (e.g., AssayNet or similar).

Responsibilities

• Perform and help lead QA/QC programs, including use of standards, blanks, duplicates, control charts and trend analysis, calibration verification, and investigation/correction of non-conforming or out-of-control results.
• Prepare and digest samples following approved SOPs and QA/QC requirements.
• Operate, calibrate, and perform basic troubleshooting and maintenance on laboratory instruments.
• Record and report result accurately using LIMS and/or approved data systems
• Apply established QA/QC protocols, including standards, blanks, duplicates, and control charts.
• Review data for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with internal and customer requirements.
• Assist in investigations and corrective actions when out-of-control or non-conforming results occur.
• For higher-level roles: perform basic statistical evaluations of method performance and lab trends.
• Support the development, validation, and standardization of analytical methods for copper and associated elements in ore, concentrate, electrolyte, cathode, and other process streams, including specialized assays such as ASCu, RSCu, TCu, ferric leach, and other metallurgical tests.
• Assist in method comparison and improvement projects for key assays (e.g., ASCu, RSCu, FSCu, TCu, leach tests).
• Develop and refine specialized copper assays such as ASCu, RSCu, TCu, ferric leach, and other metallurgical tests, ensuring accuracy, precision, and operational relevance.
• Contribute ideas and participate in continuous improvement, Lean, and quality initiatives.
• Work safely and comply with all Company, MSHA, OSHA, and environmental regulations.
• Handle reagents, samples, and waste according to safety and environmental procedures.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory work area.
• Participate in inspections and audits as required.
• Provide technical guidance to technicians and less-experienced chemists.
• Assist with training on SOPs, safety procedures, QA/QC practices, and instrument operation.
• For more senior chemists help coordinate daily workflow and priorities in the laboratory.

Benefits

• ASARCO LLC offers an excellent low-cost benefits package for medical/prescription/ dental/vision, disability coverage, life insurance and other optional coverage and 401(k) plan with company matches.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees