Operational Readiness Specialist

ASARCO • Mesa, AZ

2d

About The Position

ASARCO is seeking an experienced Operational Readiness Specialist to lead and coordinate all operational readiness activities supporting the successful transition from project execution to steady-state operations.

Reporting to the Project Director, the Operational Readiness Specialist serves as a key member of the Owner’s team and works closely with engineering, construction, commissioning, operations, maintenance, procurement, IT, and external partners. This role ensures that people, processes, systems, facilities, and governance structures are fully prepared to support safe, reliable, and efficient plant startup and sustained operations.

The successful candidate will bring strong processing plant experience, cross-functional leadership capability, and a structured approach to readiness planning and execution within heavy industrial or mining environments.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or higher degree in engineering or a related field, plus at least 15 years of experience in processing plant, systems, project, and terminology, OR
• High school diploma and 20 years’ experience in project and processing plant management, including relevant systems, and terminology.
• Proven experience supporting large-scale capital projects transitioning into operations.
• Strong knowledge of processing plant operations, commissioning, and startup processes.
• Experience managing or coordinating cross-functional operational teams.
• Strong understanding of safety systems, maintenance strategies, and operational governance.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities in a complex project environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to engage stakeholders at all organizational levels.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong commitment to safety leadership and operational excellence.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in metal mining operations, including familiarity with hydrometallurgy and concentrating processes.
• Experience working within EPC/EPCM project delivery models.
• Experience implementing asset management or maintenance management systems.
• Familiarity with operational readiness frameworks for large industrial facilities.
• Proficiency in relevant plant design or operational software platforms.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and execute operational readiness plans to support the deployment and commissioning of concentrator and tailings storage facility.
• Assess existing workflows, identify improvement opportunities, and facilitate training and documentation to ensure all staff are prepared for operations.
• Conduct readiness reviews, verify system and equipment functionality, and manage pre-launch checklists.
• Define readiness criteria, milestones, and acceptance gates
• Create comprehensive readiness plans aligned with project timelines
• Establish go-live checklists and transition plans
• Work closely with the project teams, current concentrator operations, mining operations, maintenance, engineering, and IT departments to ensure all operational requirements are satisfied.
• Monitor progress and report on readiness milestones, addressing any issues or risks that may impact operational startup.
• Facilitate readiness workshops and stakeholder reviews
• Act as the central point of coordination for operational launch activities
• Promote a culture of safety and compliance, ensuring all relevant policies and procedures are communicated and adhered to.
• Support the transition to operations by providing ongoing guidance and troubleshooting during initial implementation phases.
• Perform other duties as assigned to facilitate operational readiness and ensure a smooth transition to operations.
• Ensure SOPs, policies, and documentation are complete and approved
• Identify resource and staffing requirements, ensure training materials are developed and delivered and validate competency and readiness of operational teams

Benefits

• ASARCO offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits package including medical, prescription, dental, and vision coverage; disability and life insurance; optional supplemental coverage; and a 401(k) plan with company match.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees