Metallurgist II - Leach Optimization

Freeport McMoRan•Phoenix, AZ

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

This role is responsible for identifying, enabling, and expanding side slope leaching opportunities across all leach operations. The position focuses on unlocking additional leachable surface area on existing stockpiles through close collaboration with site teams and technical experts, ensuring all activities are executed safely, compliantly, and in alignment with sound engineering practices. With over 350 million square feet of side slope area across the enterprise—of which only approximately 25% is currently utilized for leaching—this role provides dedicated field‑based and technical leadership to unlock incremental areas and drive increased copper recovery.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Metallurgy, Chemistry or related Engineering discipline and three (3) years of experience in Metallurgy or related scientific field OR Master’s degree in Metallurgy, Chemistry or related Engineering discipline and two (2) years of experience in Metallurgy or related scientific field

Nice To Haves

Metallurgical expertise in heap leaching and additive chemistry — deep understanding of leach kinetics, mineralogy, and reagent interactions.
Economic and financial analysis skills — ability to model recovery uplift, cost-benefit scenarios, and ROI for project justification.
Process design and engineering knowledge — familiarity with dosing systems, fluid handling, and integration into existing operations.
Project management capability — skilled in planning, coordinating, and tracking milestones across multiple stakeholders.
Operational readiness and change management — experience driving site engagement, training, and adoption of new technologies.
Data analysis and performance monitoring — ability to interpret metallurgical test data, validate KPIs, and compare actual vs. forecasted impact.
Strong communication and stakeholder influence — adept at preparing technical reports, presenting business cases, and fostering cross-functional collaboration.
High degree of autonomy and time management — proven ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and deliver results without close supervision.
Problem-Solving – Proven ability to troubleshoot operational challenges and implement effective solutions under tight deadlines.
Detail-oriented with a focus on data accuracy and process optimization.
Commitment to safety, environmental compliance, and operational excellence.

Responsibilities

Identify, evaluate, and prioritize side slope leaching opportunities across all operations, with an emphasis on previously unleached or operationally constrained areas.
Spend significant time in the field assessing stockpile geometries, side slope conditions, and operational constraints while working directly with site personnel.
Collaborate with GMX, operations, environmental, and metallurgy teams to technically evaluate side slope opportunities and support approvals for expanded leaching.
Quantify identified opportunities and ensure side slope leaching initiatives are planned, documented, and incorporated into Ramp‑Up Curve (RUC) production forecasts.
Support and oversee execution of side slope leaching activities to ensure adherence to approved designs, operational best practices, and safety standards.
Monitor and evaluate leaching performance, quantify impacts to copper recovery, and communicate results, lessons learned, and best practices to key stakeholders.
Perform other duties as required.