Solvent Extraction Superintendent

Position Overview

The Solvent Extraction (SX) Superintendent is responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of multiple rare earth separation facilities across site operations. This position provides leadership and direction to SX operations teams while driving operational excellence, process optimization, workforce development, and continuous improvement initiatives. The SX Superintendent works closely with all operations, maintenance, engineering, metallurgy, EHS, and project teams to ensure production targets, quality standards, and safety expectations are consistently achieved. This role is responsible for building strong frontline leadership, developing operating discipline, and ensuring sustainable performance across all SX areas.

Position Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all day-to-day SX operations activities across multiple SX circuits and operating areas.
• Provide after-hours leadership support to ensure uninterrupted production and timely resolution of operational disruptions.
• Ensure prompt response to production escalations and coordination of resources to address production issues.
• Drive a strong safety culture through visible field leadership, operational discipline, hazard recognition, and compliance with all MSHA, Cal-OSHA, and company safety standards.
• Provide leadership and direction to supervisors, operators, and support personnel while promoting accountability and team development.
• Partner with maintenance and reliability teams to improve equipment uptime, reduce operational disruptions, and prioritize critical repairs.
• Collaborate with metallurgical and technical teams to optimize SX performance, improve recoveries, and reduce process variability.
• Monitor and analyze operational KPIs including throughput, recovery, reagent consumption, organic losses, downtime, and production efficiency.
• Support commissioning, startup, and ramp-up activities for new SX circuits and expansion projects.
• Ensure operating procedures, standards, and best practices are developed, maintained, and consistently followed.
• Support workforce development through coaching, mentoring, succession planning, and operational training initiatives.
• Drive continuous improvement efforts including 5S, operational excellence, process optimization, and cost reduction initiatives.
• Participate in budgeting, manpower planning, and operational resource allocation.
• Maintain strong field presence and engagement with frontline teams to reinforce expectations and operational priorities.

Basic Qualifications

• Minimum of 7+ years of experience in solvent extraction operations, hydrometallurgical processing, chemical processing, or related industrial operations.
• Minimum of 5+ years of leadership experience in a supervisor or superintendent-level role.
• Strong working knowledge of solvent extraction principles, process control strategies, and hydrometallurgical operations.
• Demonstrated ability to lead through change, drive accountability, and develop high-performing teams.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills related to process and operational performance.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and operational reporting systems.

Desired Qualities

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Chemistry, or related technical discipline.
• Experience in rare earth processing or similar hydrometallurgical operations.
• Experience supporting plant commissioning, startup, and expansion projects.
• Working knowledge of MSHA and Cal-OSHA regulations and safety management systems.
• Familiarity with continuous improvement methodologies and operational excellence systems.