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Leach Pad Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The operation consists of two concentrators, crushed-ore leach pad and stacking system, a low-grade ... Description Process Operator I's are skilled employees who operate at least one material handling ...

Does waste dump and leach pad designs to follow the plan and provide information to all operating groups. * Recommends courses of action designed to eliminate potential production problems and to ...

The operation consists of two concentrators, crushed-ore leach pad and stacking system, a low-grade ... Description Process Operator I's are skilled employees who operate at least one material handling ...

The operation consists of two concentrators, crushed-ore leach pad and stacking system, a low-grade ... Description Process Operator I's are skilled employees who operate at least one material handling ...

Senior Mine Engineer

Imlay, NV

$102K - $140K/yr

Works closely with all operating groups to develop weekly, monthly, and yearly plans to achieve ... Ability to carry out pit optimization studies, create life of mine pit, leach pad amp; waste rock ...

The operation consists of two concentrators, crushed-ore leach pad and stacking system, a low-grade ... Perform starter sheet fabrication which may include operating a rigidizer, a loop slitter, and an ...

Coeur Rochester employs approximately 450 mine engineers, geologists, front-line operators ... Lead weekly leach pad planning meeting * Prepare, facilitate and track dig permits * Manage ...

Mill Operator II

Morenci, AZ · On-site

$27 - $36/hr

The operation consists of two concentrators, crushed-ore leach pad and stacking system, a low-grade ... As Mill Operator II, you operate mobile equipment such as front-end loaders, forklifts, skid-steer ...

Mill Operator II

Morenci, AZ · On-site

$27 - $36/hr

The operation consists of two concentrators, crushed-ore leach pad and stacking system, a low-grade ... As Mill Operator II, you operate mobile equipment such as front-end loaders, forklifts, skid-steer ...

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Leach Pad Operator information

What are the typical challenges Leach Pad Operators face on a daily basis?

Leach Pad Operators often work in outdoor environments and must regularly monitor equipment and processes in varying weather conditions, which can be physically demanding. Maintaining optimal solution flow and dealing with equipment malfunctions or leaks are common challenges that require quick troubleshooting and adherence to strict safety protocols. Additionally, operators must accurately record data and communicate findings with supervisors and other team members to ensure smooth operations. Handling these responsibilities efficiently helps prevent environmental incidents and supports the overall success of the mining operation.

What is a Leach Pad Operator job?

A Leach Pad Operator is responsible for overseeing the operation and maintenance of a leach pad system used in mining to extract valuable metals from ore. Their duties include monitoring solution flow, ensuring proper heap irrigation, performing routine inspections, and troubleshooting issues to maintain efficiency and environmental compliance. They often work with heavy equipment, pumps, and pipelines to manage heap leaching processes safely and effectively.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Leach Pad Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Leach Pad Operator, you need practical experience in mining operations, basic mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with heavy equipment, process control systems, and safety protocols such as MSHA certification is highly valued. Attention to detail, strong teamwork, and effective communication are key soft skills for this role. These abilities are critical for safely monitoring and maintaining leach pad performance, ensuring operational efficiency and environmental compliance.

More about Leach Pad Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Leach Pad Operator jobs? The most popular types of Leach Pad Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Leach Pad Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Hydromet CLP Operator I

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 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

At Freeport-McMoRan, we are committed to providing an employment package that recognizes excellence, encourages safe production and a culture supported by our core values. Here, you'll find a collaborative environment where safety is a top priority, all opinions are valued, and people are empowered to grow in their career.  Apply Today!   

Where You Will Work  

Located approximately 50 miles northeast of Safford, Arizona on U.S. Highway 191, Morenci operations (an open-pit copper mining complex) has been in continuous operation since 1939. The operation consists of two concentrators, crushed-ore leach pad and stacking system, a low-grade run-of-mine (ROM) leaching system; four SX plants; and three EW tank houses that produce copper cathode.  

Morenci is a unique company town where our employees and their families can reconnect with nature through hiking, fishing, camping, hunting and numerous parks. The company offers several amenities, including company housing OR employees who are required to work on-site are eligible for a $750 monthly housing allowance, provided they meet program guidelines, a newly constructed daycare and community center, library, health-care facilities, state-of-the-art fitness centers, a movie theater and a skate park. Our dedicated Parks and Recreation Division plans activities for people of all ages, making sure there's something for everyone to enjoy. Visit the Morenci townwebsiteto learn more. 

Description
Process Operator I's are skilled employees who operate at least one material handling system in the production process, such as conveyors, transfer chutes, flow systems and flotation/grind mills. Employees work under minimal supervision in environments where the primary objective is safe production. 

A Hydromet CLP Operator I performs duties related to Concentrate Leach Plant operations. Requires familiarity with pumps, pipes, valves, process flow and controlling processes to predetermined set points. Operates assigned circuit to achieve production targets and troubleshoots operational issues including minor maintenance on equipment and components in assigned area of responsibility. 
 
  • Operate/control processing equipment per operating guidelines 
  • Perform area housekeeping to include tasks such as shoveling, using fire hose and digging 
  • Operate processing and mobile equipment 
  • Monitor equipment and enter data via computer 
  • Identify and report machinery maintenance needs 
  • Perform other tasks as assigned 
Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

  • Six (6) months of experience in the trade
  • Experience with material handling equipment
  • Must have completed academic and practical competencies required (this includes Line of Progression requirements for internal employees where LOP Exists) and have experience demonstrating the required aptitude. The selected candidate shall demonstrate the ability to apply knowledge and skills while also passing a written assessment where required. This exam is based on skills/abilities and/or academic knowledge; as well as safety.

Preferred

  • High School diploma or GED
  • Six (6) months of experience with pressure leaching or pressure oxidation
  • Experience with steam generator (boiler) operation, scrubbers, heat exchangers, filters, thickeners, and pressure vessels
  • Experience with sample collection and analysis
  • Experience working with Autoclaves
  • Experience operating material handling equipment including forklift, skid steer loader, and overhead crane

Criteria/Conditions

  • Ability to understand and apply verbal and written work and safety-related instructions and procedures given in English
  • Ability to communicate in English with respect to job assignments, job procedures, and applicable safety standards
  • Must be able to work in a potentially stressful environment
  • This is a Safety sensitive role
  • Work is performed in a mine or manufacturing plant setting, which may include exposure to extremes in temperature and humidity, moving mechanical parts, risk of electrical shock, toxic chemicals, explosives, fumes or airborne particles
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to stand, sit, demonstrate manual dexterity, climb stairs and ladders, and work on elevated platforms
  • Occasionally may be required to lift up to fifty (50) pounds during the course of the work day
  • May be required to work a non-standard schedule which may include shift work (other than day shift) in a 24/7/365 operation
  • Occasionally may be required to lift up to fifty (50) pounds during the course of the work day
  • Personal protective equipment is required when performing work in a mine, outdoor, manufacturing or plant environment, including hard hat, hearing protection, safety glasses, safety footwear, and as needed, respirator, rubber steel-toe boots, protective clothing, gloves and any other protective equipment as required
  • Freeport-McMoRan promotes a drug/alcohol-free work environment through the use of mandatory pre-employment drug testing and on-going random drug testing as allowed by applicable state laws
 

What We Offer You 

The estimated pay range for this role is currently$24.00 - $32.00/hour. 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 discretionary and incentive payment considerations based on company and individual performance. More details will be shared during the hiring process. Click here to view a sample of Total Rewards Estimate for this role. 

  • Employees who are required to work on-site are eligible for a $750 monthly housing allowance, provided they meet program guidelines
  • 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 pet, auto, home and vehicle 
  • Internal progression opportunities 
  • Learn more about our competitive and comprehensive benefits package! 

What We Require 

  • Candidates may be required to pass a medical exam. 
  • Candidates must pass all required training and/or testing. 
  • Employees may be required to work a non-standard schedule, which may include shift work (other than day shift) at a 24/7, 365-day operation. 
  • Freeport-McMoRan promotes a drug/alcohol-free work environment using mandatory pre-employment drug testing and on-going drug and alcohol testing, as allowed by applicable laws.
     

Equal Opportunity Employer 

Please be advised that 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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