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Extractive Metallurgist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mineral Processing Leader

Salt Lake City, UT

$100K - $130K/yr

Serve as the technical authority on mineral processing and extractive metallurgy design and operation * Drive process optimization by improving recovery, throughput and operational reliability

Mineral Processing Leader

Phoenix, AZ

$97K - $126K/yr

Serve as the technical authority on mineral processing and extractive metallurgy design and operation * Drive process optimization by improving recovery, throughput and operational reliability

Mineral Processing Leader

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Serve as the technical authority on mineral processing and extractive metallurgy design and operation * Drive process optimization by improving recovery, throughput and operational reliability

Demonstrated work in extractive metallurgical process engineering and have a strong desire to advance skills related to WSP's work and projects. * Excellent research skills with analytical mindset.

Demonstrated work in extractive metallurgical process engineering and have a strong desire to advance skills related to WSP's work and projects. * Excellent research skills with analytical mindset.

Senior Engineer, Metal Making

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$93K - $129K/yr

... in extractive metallurgy, and apply a combination of experimental research, process modeling, and material science expertise to design, optimize, and scale metal making pathways. This position will ...

Showing results 21-40

Extractive Metallurgist information

See salary details

$32K

$90.7K

$119.5K

How much do extractive metallurgist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for extractive metallurgist in the United States is $90,692.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,000.00 and $102,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Extractive Metallurgist vs Mineral Processing Engineer?

AspectExtractive MetallurgistMineral Processing Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Metallurgy, Chemical, or Materials EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Mineral Processing, Chemical, or Metallurgy Engineering
Work EnvironmentSmelting plants, refining facilities, research labsProcessing plants, mineral beneficiation facilities, labs
Industry UsageMining, metal production, refiningMining, mineral processing, ore beneficiation

Both roles focus on extracting valuable metals from ores, but an Extractive Metallurgist specializes in refining and metal recovery processes, while a Mineral Processing Engineer concentrates on ore beneficiation and initial processing. They often work together in mining operations, sharing similar credentials and work environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an extractive metallurgist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Extractive Metallurgist, you need a solid background in chemistry, metallurgy, and process engineering, usually supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with metallurgical testing equipment, process simulation software, and safety protocols is essential, and certifications such as Chartered Engineer status can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities help professionals excel in this role. These competencies are crucial for optimizing metal extraction processes, ensuring safety, and maximizing operational efficiency in mining and refining environments.

What are some common challenges faced by extractive metallurgists when scaling up laboratory processes to full-scale production?

Extractive metallurgists often encounter challenges when transitioning processes from the laboratory to industrial scale, such as differences in reaction kinetics, heat and mass transfer, and equipment limitations. Issues like maintaining consistent product quality, optimizing energy usage, and managing environmental impacts can become more complex at larger scales. Collaborating closely with engineers, plant operators, and environmental specialists is essential to troubleshoot problems and ensure smooth scale-up. Adaptability and effective communication are key skills that help extractive metallurgists address these challenges successfully.

What does an extractive metallurgist do?

An extractive metallurgist is a professional who specializes in separating valuable metals from ores and other raw materials. They develop and optimize processes such as crushing, grinding, leaching, smelting, and refining to efficiently extract metals like gold, copper, iron, and others. Their work is crucial in the mining industry, ensuring that metals are recovered in an environmentally responsible and cost-effective manner. Extractive metallurgists also work on improving existing extraction techniques and developing new technologies to increase yield and reduce waste.
More about Extractive Metallurgist jobs
What cities are hiring for Extractive Metallurgist jobs? Cities with the most Extractive Metallurgist job openings:
What states have the most Extractive Metallurgist jobs? States with the most job openings for Extractive Metallurgist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Extractive Metallurgist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $90,692 per year, or $43.6 per hour.

Mineral Processing Leader

BBA, Inc.

Salt Lake City, UT

$100K - $130K/yr

Other

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Your future role on our team

As a Mineral Processing Leader, you'll provide technicalleadership and strategic direction for metallurgical and process designactivities across all project phases. You'll oversee multidisciplinary teams,support project execution and ensure that processing solutions are optimizedfor performance, operability and cost efficiency.

You'll play a key role in supporting our growth in theU.S. market, particularly in projects involving mineral processing, heap leachand hydrometallurgical processes. You'll also occasionally visit client sites,support business development efforts and mentor junior engineers to supportteam growth.

With us, you'll get the opportunity to...

  • Lead process engineering activities for projects, from studies through to detailed engineering and commissioning
  • Lead or contribute to projects as part of a multidisciplinary engineering team
  • Serve as the technical authority on mineral processing and extractive metallurgy design and operation
  • Drive process optimization by improving recovery, throughput and operational reliability
  • Oversee multidisciplinary teams to deliver safe, cost-effective and high-quality solutions
  • Advise clients on process design, performance improvement and operational strategies
  • Provide guidance on the development and analysis of metallurgical testwork programs to support flowsheet design
  • Lead the preparation of key process design deliverables (mass balances, PFDs, P&IDs, design criteria and technical specifications)
  • Support business development by contributing to proposals and strengthening client relationships
  • Mentor and develop junior and intermediate engineersto enhance team capabilities