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Leach Pad Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hydromet EW Operator I

Morenci, AZ · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

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 ...

Hydromet EW Operator I

Morenci, AZ · On-site

$24 - $32/hr

The operation consists of two concentrators, crushed-ore leach pad and stacking system, a low-grade ... operating a cathode press, and ensuring proper cathode alignment Collecting and running plant ...

Operations Trainer

Morenci, AZ · On-site

$31 - $41/hr

The operation consists of two concentrators, crushed-ore leach pad and stacking system, a low-grade ... Highly skilled operator/mechanic possessing an ability to identify, assess, and elaborate on ...

The operation consists of two concentrators, crushed-ore leach pad and stacking system, a low-grade ... Highly skilled operator/mechanic possessing an ability to identify, assess, and elaborate on ...

Operations Technician

Morenci, AZ · On-site

$32 - $43/hr

The operation consists of two concentrators, crushed-ore leach pad and stacking system, a low-grade ... Fill-in Supervisor, Dispatcher, Equipment Operator, Repair Employee) * Assist in completion of ...

The operation consists of two concentrators, crushed-ore leach pad and stacking system, a low-grade ... Fill-in Supervisor, Dispatcher, Equipment Operator, Repair Employee) * Assist in completion of ...

Operations Trainer

Morenci, AZ · On-site

$31 - $41/hr

The operation consists of two concentrators, crushed-ore leach pad and stacking system, a low-grade ... Direct experience in processes, equipment, and maintenance akin to operating areas where mentoring ...

Operations Trainer

Morenci, AZ · On-site

$31 - $41/hr

The operation consists of two concentrators, crushed-ore leach pad and stacking system, a low-grade ... Highly skilled operator/mechanic possessing an ability to identify, assess, and elaborate on ...

Senior Mine Engineer

Morenci, AZ · On-site

$120 - $180/hr

The operation consists of two concentrators, crushed-ore leach pad and stacking system, a low-grade ... operating costs, manpower, safety practices, and either existing or proposed technical aspects of ...

Showing results 41-60

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?

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
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Infographic showing various Leach Pad Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Hydromet EW Operator I

Freeport-McMoRan, Inc.

Morenci, AZ • On-site

$24 - $32/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Freeport-McMoRan rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 139 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 41 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 town website to learn more.
What You Will Do
  • Operate process equipment in the electro-winning process and completes maintenance of electrolytic cells at a skilled level.
  • Operate process equipment in the electro-winning process; monitors the processes and makes adjustments as needed
  • Completes harvesting of copper cathodes
  • Perform cell maintenance duties to include setting a jumper frame, draining cells, inspecting for damage, fixing leaks, hydro-blasting, cleaning, repairing/replacing level boxed, and replacing buffer sheets and boards
  • Perform starter sheet fabrication which may include operating a rigidizer, a loop slitter, and an upender
  • Computer cathode pressing which may include detecting and correcting improper plating conditions, operating a cathode press, and ensuring proper cathode alignment
  • Collecting and running plant samples
  • Completes various tasks related to the shipping of copper cathodes which may include weighting bundles, banding bundles, and loading trucks
  • Assist maintenance personnel in performing equipment maintenance activities
  • May operate a Stripping machine to strip copper sheets
  • Operates mobile equipment such as overhead cranes and forklifts
  • Perform area housekeeping
  • Perform other duties as required

What You Bring To Freeport
  • Six (6) months of experience in Hydromet processing operations
  • 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 Qualifications
  • High School diploma or GED

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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