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Extractive Metallurgy Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Phoenix Tailings

9.2. Senior R&D Chemist

Woburn, MA

$130K - $170K/yr

PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Materials Science ... rare earth processing, extractive metallurgy, or related applied chemical R&D. * Hands-on ...

Phoenix Tailings

9.2. Senior R&D Chemist

Woburn, MA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Materials Science ... rare earth processing, extractive metallurgy, or related applied chemical R&D. * Hands-on ...

Phoenix Tailings

9.2. Senior R&D Chemist

Woburn, MA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

PhD in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Materials Science ... rare earth processing, extractive metallurgy, or related applied chemical R&D. * Hands-on ...

Revere Copper Products, Inc

Quality Engineer

Rome, NY · On-site

$74K - $99K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Material Science, Extractive Metallurgy, or Refractory Engineering. Six Sigma Certification, and experience in APQP methodology. Graduate studies or Master's degree.

Revere Copper Products

Quality Engineer

Rome, NY · On-site

$74K - $99K/yr

Preferred: • Bachelor's degree in Material Science, Extractive Metallurgy, or Refractory Engineering. Six Sigma Certification, and experience in APQP methodology. • Graduate studies or Master ...

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Extractive Metallurgy Engineering information

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$33K

$94K

$145.5K

How much do extractive metallurgy engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for extractive metallurgy engineering in the United States is $94,030.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $108,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by extractive metallurgy engineers in their daily work?

Extractive metallurgy engineers often face challenges related to balancing efficiency with environmental and safety regulations. They must optimize extraction processes to maximize yield while minimizing waste, energy consumption, and emissions. Additionally, they frequently collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, requiring strong communication skills to coordinate with geologists, chemical engineers, and plant operators. Adapting to new technologies and continuously improving process methods are also key aspects of the role.

What is extractive metallurgy engineering?

Extractive metallurgy engineering is a branch of metallurgical engineering focused on the processes used to extract metals from their natural mineral deposits and refine them for practical use. This field involves studying and designing methods such as pyrometallurgy, hydrometallurgy, and electrometallurgy to separate valuable metals from ores and waste materials. Extractive metallurgists work to improve efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and develop new techniques for metal recovery in industries like mining, recycling, and manufacturing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Extractive Metallurgy Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Extractive Metallurgy Engineer, a solid background in metallurgy, chemistry, and process engineering—typically supported by a degree in metallurgical or chemical engineering—is essential. Familiarity with laboratory analysis tools, metallurgical simulation software, and process control systems is highly valued, along with certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help professionals excel in troubleshooting complex extraction processes and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies ensure efficient metal recovery, process optimization, and adherence to environmental and safety standards in mining and metallurgical operations.

What is the difference between Extractive Metallurgy Engineering vs Mineral Processing Engineering?

AspectExtractive Metallurgy EngineeringMineral Processing Engineering
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Metallurgical or Extractive MetallurgyBachelor's or Master's in Mineral Processing or Geology
Work EnvironmentSmelting plants, refining facilities, labsOre processing plants, mineral beneficiation facilities
Industry UsageMetal extraction from ores, refining metalsCrushing, grinding, and separating minerals from ore

Extractive Metallurgy Engineering focuses on extracting and refining metals from ores, involving processes like smelting and refining. Mineral Processing Engineering concentrates on separating valuable minerals from ore through crushing, grinding, and beneficiation techniques. Both roles require similar credentials and often work in related environments within the mining and metals industry, but their core functions differ in the specific stages of mineral and metal production.

Infographic showing various Extractive Metallurgy Engineering job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,030 per year, or $45.2 per hour.
Principal Engineer I - Mineral Process

Principal Engineer I - Mineral Process

Freeport McMoRan

Phoenix, AZ

$120K - $167K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Freeport-McMoRan rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 135 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 29 rated mining

Job description

Why You Should Apply for This Job  

At Freeport-McMoRan, we are committed to providing employment that recognizes excellence and encourages safe production, with a culture supported by our core values. Here, you'll find a collaborative environment where safety is a top priority. Apply Today!   

 

Where You Will Work 

Our global headquarters is in Phoenix, Arizona. Several hundred employees support our operations in finance, human resources, health and safety, information technology, planning, and more. Our flexible work program allows employees to work virtually as well as come together in person when needed at our Collaboration Hub in Phoenix and/or one of our site locations. Employees can work remotely from most states in the U.S., with the exception of California, Connecticut, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Oklahoma and South Carolina. Additional states may be excluded from remote work based on business factors.Should the position shift to in-person (office/site) work in the future, the company will offer relocation benefits at that time, so long as the position meets the established eligibility for these benefits. 

What You Will Do

This role serves as a key technical leader focused on mineral processing simulation and modeling. The successful candidate will develop advanced models using real plant data and ore characterization results to drive process optimization, flowsheet development, production forecasting, plant debottlenecking, and strategic planning. Core responsibilities include simulation modeling, plant data analysis and optimization, and integration of ore characterization insights. This position will work closely with operations, engineering, and corporate teams to support process design studies, feasibility evaluations, and project development initiatives.

  • Develop, calibrate, and validate mineral processing simulation models, including comminution and flotation circuits.
  • Analyze and interpret plant operating data and ore characterization results to build accurate, predictive simulation models.
  • Apply simulation principles to evaluate circuit performance, run scenario analyses, and support process design and optimization decisions.
  • Maintain and enhance the organization's internal simulation capabilities, progressing toward subjectmatterexpert proficiency.
  • Extract, clean, and analyze real-time and historical plant data to ensure highquality inputs for modeling and decisionmaking.
  • Leverage simulation and data analytics to identify opportunities to improve throughput, recovery, efficiency, and process stability.
  • Integrate ore characterization data-such as grindability, mineralogy, liberation, density, and hardness-into simulation models.
  • Collaborate with metallurgy, geology, and laboratory teams to ensure reliable, representative ore characterization inputs.
  • Clearly communicate complex modeling insights and recommendations to stakeholders across all levels of the organization.
  • Perform other duties as required.
What You Bring To Freeport
  • Bachelor's degree in Metallurgical Engineering or Chemical engineering and seven (7) years of experience in related engineering field OR
  • Master's degree in Metallurgical Engineering or Chemical engineering and five (5) years of experience in related engineering field; OR
  • PhD in Metallurgical Engineering or Chemical engineering and three (3) years of experience in related engineering field
  • Advanced knowledge of the principles and practices of engineering
  • Able to research and analyze information of considerable difficulty and draw valid conclusion
  • Ability to develop and maintain awareness of occupational hazards and safety precautions
  • Ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly and effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, both verbally and in writing
Preferred Qualifications
  • Advanced understanding of simulation modeling theory
  • Demonstrated ability to work with plant operational data
  • Experience integrating ore characterization test work into models
  • Advanced knowledge of the principles and practices of Extractive Metallurgical engineering and/or Mineral Processing engineering

What We Offer You 

The estimated annual pay range for this role is currently$120,000-$167,500. This range reflects base salary only and does not include bonus payments, benefits or retirement contributions. Actual base pay is determined by experience, qualifications, skills and other job-related factors. This role is eligible for additional incentive compensation considerations based on company and individual performance. Additionally, this position is currently eligible for annual long-term incentive consideration. Long-term incentives are contingent upon authorized approval under the terms and conditions of the Company's plan and award agreements. More details will be shared during the hiring process.Click here to view a sample of Total Rewards Estimate for this role. 

  • Affordable medical, dental and vision benefits 
  • Company-paid life and disability insurance 
  • 401(k) plan with employer contribution/match 
  • Paid time off, paid sick time, holiday pay, parental leave 
  • Tuition Assistance 
  • Employee Assistance Program 
  • Discounted insurance plans for auto, home and pet 
  • Internal progression opportunities 
  • Learn more about our competitive and comprehensive benefits package! 

What We Require  

Freeport-McMoRan promotes a drug/alcohol-free work environment using mandatory pre-employment drug testing as allowed by applicable laws. 

Equal Opportunity Employer 

Please be advised Freeport-McMoRan will never request payment for job-related expenses from applicants. If you receive any suspicious emails, please disregard them, and report the incident to HRSC@fmi.com. 

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