R&D Metallurgist

About Mariana Minerals

Mariana Minerals is a software-first, vertically integrated minerals company on a mission to supply the critical minerals powering modern energy, AI, and defense technologies. We’re reimagining the minerals supply chain by combining deep industry expertise with advanced software, automation, and data-driven decision-making.

The Role

The R&D Metallurgist designs, executes, and analyzes experiments to advance Mariana Minerals' hydrometallurgical testing programs. This hands-on laboratory and pilot-scale role focuses on running DOE protocols, operating tank reactors and mining systems, and analyzing data to optimize extraction for critical minerals.

What You'll Do

• Develop Design of Experiments (DOE) protocols for chemical processing, extraction, and purification
• Analyze metallurgical and process data to identify trends, root causes, and optimization opportunities
• Operate tank reactors, filtration systems, separation equipment, and purification units at bench and pilot scale
• Prepare chemical solutions and reagents according to experimental specifications
• Monitor and control process parameters: temperature, pH, flow rates, residence time, and reagent dosing
• Perform systematic sampling and material handling throughout process streams
• Collect experimental data including process parameters, weights, volumes, and analytical results
• Analyze data using Excel and statistical tools to evaluate performance and identify optimization opportunities
• Generate clear data visualizations, charts, and summary reports
• Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks and digital documentation
• Support DOE planning and multi-variable optimization studies
• Perform routine maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of processing equipment
• Follow all chemical handling, PPE, and MSHA/OSHA safety protocols
• Maintain clean, organized, and safe laboratory environments
• Conduct hazard assessments for chemical processes and experimental setups
• Desired Qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Metallurgy, or related technical field preferred
• 5+ years' experience in chemical processing, hydrometallurgy, or laboratory/pilot plant operations
• Experience with Design of Experiments (DOE) methodology and statistical analysis highly desirable
• Hands-on experience with chemical reactors, filtration, and separation equipment
• Advanced Excel proficiency (pivot tables, statistical functions, data visualization)
• Understanding of chemical process fundamentals (mass balance, stoichiometry, reaction kinetics)
• Knowledge of purification techniques (precipitation, solvent extraction, ion exchange, crystallization)
• Ability to read P&IDs and process flow diagrams
• Experience with DOE software (JMP, Minitab, Design-Expert) is a plus
• Exceptional attention to detail and data integrity
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and documentation abilities
• Self-motivated with ability to manage multiple experiments
• Unwavering commitment to safety and quality
• Valid driver's license required
• Our culture is built on four principles: Everyone Gets Home Safe.
• We never put speed or cost ahead of people.
• Extreme Ownership.
• We take full responsibility for outcomes, relentlessly driving toward solutions.
• Engineer Out Requirements, then Automate.
• We simplify, optimize, and then automate for scale.
• Share Your Legos.
• We collaborate openly, share knowledge, and empower each other to build bigger, better solutions.
• Join us as we build the future of responsible mineral sourcing and supply!