Leach Pad Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary

Under the supervision of the Chief Metallurgist, the Junior Metallurgist provides entry-level metallurgical support to site operations and continuous improvement efforts. This role assists with routine plant monitoring, sampling, and data analysis; supports metallurgical test work and plant trials; and helps prepare technical summaries and reports. The Junior Metallurgist applies fundamental metallurgical and engineering principles to contribute to process optimization, recovery improvement, and safe, reliable operation of the crushing, milling, flotation, heap leach, ADR, and refinery circuits. Qualified candidates may be eligible for both a sign-on bonus and relocation assistance. 

Essential Functions

1.  Assist with plant sampling surveys (mill, flotation, heap leach, ADR/refinery as applicable) by collecting and preparing metallurgical samples in accordance with established procedures and direction from senior metallurgists.
2.  Conduct laboratory and bench-scale metallurgical tests (e.g., grindability, leach tests, flotation response, rheology or similar) following standard test methods; accurately record observations and results in lab notebooks and/or electronic systems.  Prepare written draft technical reports documenting findings and recommendations.
3.  Support day-to-day plant metallurgical monitoring by compiling operating data, checking data quality, trending key parameters, and escalating abnormal conditions to the appropriate metallurgical or operations personnel.
4.  Assist with the planning and execution of plant trials under supervision, including coordinating trial logistics, verifying sampling plans, tracking trial conditions, and summarizing results.
5.  Prepare draft technical memos and reports summarizing test work, sampling results, and plant performance trends; present findings to the metallurgical team for review and feedback.
6.  Assist with metallurgical accounting tasks and metal inventory control activities (e.g., solutions, carbon, ponds/tanks/pads, and other process streams) by collecting required inputs, completing calculations/templates, and reconciling variances with guidance.
7.  Contribute to daily and monthly metallurgical reporting by updating spreadsheets/databases, verifying calculations, preparing charts/tables, and ensuring timely distribution in accordance with site standards.
8.  Provide routine metallurgical support to operations by participating in meetings as requested, communicating observations, and helping troubleshoot recovery, throughput, and product quality issues under supervision.
9.  Assist with tracking process consumables (e.g., reagents) and key operating parameters, including maintaining usage logs, identifying significant variances, and supporting optimization opportunities.
10.  Follow and help maintain SOPs, work instructions, and sampling/testing protocols; suggest updates based on observed gaps and assist with document revisions as assigned.
11.  Maintain awareness of metallurgical best practices and site process standards; participate in continuous improvement activities by contributing ideas and supporting implementation of approved changes.
12.  Collaborate effectively with operations, maintenance, assay lab, and technical services personnel; communicate clearly, escalate issues promptly, and maintain professional working relationships.
13.  Comply with all applicable company policies and procedures, including health and safety, environmental requirements, confidentiality, and code of conduct; actively identify and report hazards and follow required controls.
14.  Complete required training, demonstrate continuous learning in metallurgical methods and site systems, and perform other related duties and special projects as assigned that are consistent with the scope and level of the position.

Qualifications and Skill Requirements

1.    Bachelor's degree in Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field required.
2.    0-2 years of relevant metallurgical/mineral processing experience (internships, co-ops, or summer work experience acceptable); recent graduates and entry-level candidates are encouraged to apply.
3.    Familiarity with heap leach operations (e.g., leach pad operation, solution management, and metal recovery concepts) through coursework, internships, or site exposure preferred.
4.    Familiarity with flotation fundamentals (e.g., reagent functions, circuit concepts, and basic performance troubleshooting) through coursework, internships, or site exposure preferred.
5.    Foundational understanding of metallurgical and engineering principles with the ability to apply them to mineral processing operations under supervision.
6.    General knowledge of mining and mineral processing operations; familiarity with milling processes and basic maintenance concepts preferred.
7.    Experience or familiarity with laboratory testing, sampling protocols, plant trials, and basic metallurgical data analysis; ability to document work clearly and accurately.
8.    Familiarity with computer-based data analysis tools (e.g., spreadsheets/databases) and basic statistical or trending methods; willingness to learn site metallurgical systems and reporting tools.
9.    Proficient with PC-based software, including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and presentation tools.
10.    Strong verbal, written, analytical, and technical writing skills, with the ability to communicate effectively at all organizational levels.
11.    Ability to work effectively under guidance and supervision as well as collaboratively within a team environment.
12.    Demonstrated organizational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to accuracy and quality.
13.    Must be at least 18 years of age and authorized to work full-time in the United States.
14.    Valid driver's license required. 

Health, Safety, and Environmental Requirements

   Demonstrates a strong commitment to safe working practices and environmental stewardship.
   Adheres to all safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
   Wears required personal protective equipment (PPE) while in production and operational areas.
   Actively identifies, reports, and assists in correcting unsafe conditions or behaviors.
   Performs all duties in a manner that ensures the safety of self and others.

Kinross Competencies

  Strategic Effectiveness
Developing and communicating rigorous and creative business strategies that drive sustainable value.
  External Engagement
Understanding and building relationships with external parties that strengthen and sustain competitive advantage.
  Business Focus
Applying commercial rigor and discipline to all business decisions and customer relationships.
  Living the Kinross Values
Aligning behavior, decisions, and actions with Kinross values and principles.

Legislative Requirements

Language Requirements