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!