Chemical Process Engineer I -Separation

About Phoenix Tailings

Phoenix Tailings is a clean mining and metals production startup focused on sustainable and economic critical metals production. The company aims to become the world's first fully clean mining and metals production company, producing resources essential for the next generation of economies.

Who We Are Looking For

Pheonix Tailings is seeking a Chemical Process Engineer I to join their team. This role is ideal for a highly motivated, hands-on engineer eager to apply their education, grow their skillset, and contribute to real-world solutions in a lab and pilot-scale environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform hands-on lab work to support solvent extraction experiments for rare earth element separation
• Prepare chemical solutions, reagents, and samples for testing and analysis
• Operate and maintain laboratory-scale process equipment (e.g., mixer-settlers, separators)
• Record detailed observations, maintain lab notebooks, and input experimental data for analysis
• Aid in process data analysis to identify trends and inform process decisions
• Follow lab safety protocols and contribute to a culture of safe experimentation
• Help scale experiments from lab to pilot by supporting equipment setup, testing, and documentation
• Collaborate with senior engineers and scientists to execute technical project work

Qualifications

• B.S. in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, or related field
• Academic or internship experience with chemical processes, especially wet chemistry or solvent extraction, is a plus
• Strong interest in hands-on lab work and process development
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, maintain documentation, and follow experimental procedures precisely
• Knowledge of basic lab safety practices and chemical handling
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, startup environment where learning by doing is core to success
• Strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset

Benefits

• Competitive compensation package including salary + discretionary bonus
• Healthcare: 100% Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employee
• Stock Options: Ownership in a fast-growing venture-backed company
• Unlimited PTO
• Learning: Opportunities to grow skills and career