Principal Engineer I – Mineral Process
Freeport-McMoRan
full-time
Posted on:
Location Type: Hybrid
Location: Phoenix • Arizona • United States
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Salary
💰 $116,000 - $162,500 per year
Job Level
About the role
- This role serves as a key technical leader focused on mineral processing simulation and modeling.
- Develop advanced models using real plant data and ore characterization results to drive process optimization, flowsheet development, production forecasting, plant debottlenecking, and strategic planning.
- Core responsibilities include simulation modeling, plant data analysis and optimization, and integration of ore characterization insights.
- Work closely with operations, engineering, and corporate teams to support process design studies, feasibility evaluations, and project development initiatives.
- Develop, calibrate, and validate mineral processing simulation models, including comminution and flotation circuits.
- Analyze and interpret plant operating data and ore characterization results to build accurate, predictive simulation models.
- Apply simulation principles to evaluate circuit performance, run scenario analyses, and support process design and optimization decisions.
- Maintain and enhance the organization’s internal simulation capabilities with subject-matter-expert proficiency.
- Extract, clean, and analyze real-time and historical plant data to ensure high-quality inputs for modeling and decision-making.
- Leverage simulation and data analytics to identify opportunities to improve throughput, recovery, efficiency, and process stability.
- Integrate ore characterization data into simulation models.
- Collaborate with metallurgy, geology, and laboratory teams to ensure reliable ore characterization inputs.
- Clearly communicate complex modeling insights and recommendations to stakeholders across all levels of the organization.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Metallurgical Engineering or Chemical engineering and seven (7) years of experience in related engineering field OR Master’s degree in Metallurgical Engineering or Chemical engineering and five (5) years of experience in related engineering field; OR PhD in Metallurgical Engineering or Chemical engineering and three (3) years of experience in related engineering field
- Advanced knowledge of the principles and practices of engineering
- Able to research and analyze information of considerable difficulty and draw valid conclusion
- Ability to develop and maintain awareness of occupational hazards and safety precautions
- Ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly and effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, both verbally and in writing
Benefits
- Affordable medical, dental and vision benefits
- Company-paid life and disability insurance
- 401(k) plan with employer contribution/match
- Paid time off, paid sick time, holiday pay, parental leave
- Tuition Assistance
- Employee Assistance Program
- Discounted insurance plans for auto, home and pet
- Internal progression opportunities
Applicant Tracking System Keywords
Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.
Hard Skills & Tools
mineral processing simulationmodelingprocess optimizationflowsheet developmentproduction forecastingplant debottleneckingdata analysissimulation modelingore characterizationcircuit performance evaluation
Soft Skills
communicationcollaborationanalytical thinkingproblem-solvingtechnical writing
Certifications
Bachelor’s degree in Metallurgical EngineeringBachelor’s degree in Chemical EngineeringMaster’s degree in Metallurgical EngineeringMaster’s degree in Chemical EngineeringPhD in Metallurgical EngineeringPhD in Chemical Engineering