Extractive Metallurgist

About Mariana Minerals

Mariana Minerals is a software-first, vertically integrated minerals company focused on supplying critical minerals for modern energy, AI, and defense technologies. We reimagine the minerals supply chain through a blend of deep industry expertise, advanced software, automation, and data-driven decision-making.

The Role

We are seeking an Extractive Metallurgist to join our growing technical team in Moab, UT. This role is crucial for developing, optimizing, and scaling mineral processing systems for Mariana’s global operations. Ideal candidates bring strong process engineering and metallurgical expertise, preferably in zinc or copper, and thrive in fast-paced, startup environments.

What You'll Do

• Design, test, and optimize mineral processing flowsheets for new and existing projects.
• Lead laboratory, pilot-scale, and plant trials for process validation and improvement.
• Analyze metallurgical data to improve recovery, efficiency, and cost performance.
• Collaborate with engineering teams on process design and scale-up.
• Partner with data scientists and ML engineers to integrate advanced analytics and predictive models into process optimization.
• Support commissioning and ramp-up of new facilities, with significant travel to sites.
• Contribute to Mariana’s culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and safety.

What You'll Bring

• Degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or Process Engineering.
• Hands-on mineral processing experience (zinc or copper preferred, broader base considered).
• Proven ability to work independently in dynamic environments, with strong problem-solving skills.
• Experience working in startup or entrepreneurial settings.
• Desired qualifications include background in industrial technology or product development, experience collaborating with machine learning engineers or data scientists, and exposure to digitized process monitoring and automation systems.

Desired Qualifications

• Background in industrial technology or product development.
• Experience collaborating with machine learning engineers or data scientists.
• Exposure to digitized process monitoring and automation systems.

Culture

Our culture is built on three principles: 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.

Pay

Compensation Range: $100K - $160K