Job Title: Process Manager – Copper Surface Heap Leach Operation
Location: Site-Based
Reports To: General Manager
Job Summary:
We are seeking an experienced Process Manager to lead and optimize our copper surface heap leach operation, including crushing, conveying, leaching, solvent extraction (SX), and electrowinning (EW) processes. The ideal candidate will be a qualified Metallurgical Engineer with a proven track record of delivering measurable improvements in safety, production efficiency, cost reduction, and team performance within large-scale mining operations of up to at least 12MTPY of ore production.
This role requires a hands-on leader who can drive operational excellence, implement best practices, and foster a high-performance culture across a team of 30+ personnel spanning operations, maintenance, and asset management. The candidate must be able to articulate specific examples where their leadership directly contributed to hard-dollar savings, productivity gains, or process improvements—backed by quantifiable results.
Key Responsibilities:
Operational Leadership & Process Optimization:
•Oversee all aspects of the heap leach operation, including crushing, stacking, leaching, SX/EW, and maintenance to ensure maximum production efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
•Identify and implement process improvements that enhance recovery rates, reduce downtime, and lower operating costs—provide specific examples of past successes (e.g., increased PLS grade, reduced acid consumption, improved stacking methodology).
•Lead plant expansions, debottlenecking projects, or greenfield developments—demonstrate experience in project execution with clear ROI (e.g., increased throughput, reduced maintenance costs).
•Optimize leach pad management (e.g., lift height, irrigation rates, aeration) to maximize copper recovery while minimizing operational risks.
Safety & Compliance:
•Foster a zero-harm culture with proven examples of safety program enhancements (e.g., reduced TRIFR, improved near-miss reporting, behavioral-based safety initiatives).
•Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations across leaching and processing activities.
Maintenance & Asset Management:
•Drive reliability-centered maintenance (RCM) strategies—cite examples where predictive/preventive maintenance reduced downtime or extended asset life.
•Manage maintenance planning and execution, ensuring minimal impact on production (e.g., optimized crusher liner changes, conveyor belt replacements).
•Experience with fixed plant maintenance, asset management systems (SAP, JDE), and spare parts optimization is critical.
Team Leadership & Culture Development:
•Lead, mentor, and develop large teams (30+ personnel) across operations, maintenance, and technical services.
•Provide specific examples of improving workforce engagement, such as:
•Implementing performance-based incentives that boosted productivity.
•Resolving labor inefficiencies through training, accountability, or workflow redesign.
•Cultivating a positive work culture that reduced turnover and improved collaboration.
Required Qualifications & Experience:
•10+ years in copper heap leach/SX/EW operations, with at least 5 years in a leadership role managing large teams.
•Proven track record of delivering measurable improvements—must be able to articulate specific projects where actions led to:
•Cost savings (e.g., reduced reagent consumption, lower maintenance spend).
•Production increases (e.g., higher PLS grades, improved stacking rates).
•Safety improvements (e.g., reduced incidents, better compliance).
•Experience in greenfield/brownfield expansions, crushing/conveying optimization, or leach pad design is highly desirable.
•Strong financial acumen—ability to justify capital projects with clear payback periods.
•Exceptional communication and leadership skills, with a history of building high-performing teams.
Desired Skills:
•Proficiency in lean mining, Six Sigma, or continuous improvement methodologies.
•Familiarity with planning software and ERP systems (SAP, Pronto).
Why Join Us?
•Opportunity to lead a high-impact operation with direct influence on profitability.
•Work in a dynamic, results-driven environment where innovation is rewarded.
•Competitive compensation, benefits, and career growth potential.
Application Requirement: Candidates must provide specific examples of past achievements (with metrics) in their resume or cover letter.
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
Schedule:
Work Location: In person