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Lithium Refining Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Mariana Minerals

Staff Product Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$180K - $210K/yr

PlantOS Our autonomy platform for fixed-plant mineral processing - lithium refining, SX-EW, flotation, and beyond. It uses the same reinforcement learning toolkit powering self-driving vehicles and ...

Mariana Minerals

Staff Product Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$130 - $160/hr

PlantOS Our autonomy platform for fixed‑plant mineral processing -- lithium refining, SX‑EW, flotation, and beyond. It uses the same reinforcement learning toolkit powering self‑driving ...

Proper Voltage

Head of Programs - Robotics

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$180 - $220/hr

We're building intelligent battery systems that make advanced chemistries (sodium-ion, lithium ... Partner with the Product and Programs function on developing and refining internal processes and ...

Oxy

R&D/Technology Engineer - New Grad

Brawley, CA · On-site

This position will support the development and demonstration of TerraLithium's direct lithium ... refine innovative solutions. * Field Activities: Gain practical experience by working on-site ...

Oxy

R&D/Technology Engineer - New Grad

Brawley, CA

This position will support the development and demonstration of TerraLithium's direct lithium ... refine innovative solutions. * Field Activities: Gain practical experience by working on-site ...

ALSO

Controls Engineer, Battery and BMS

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$220K - $260K/yr

Analyze field data to refine predictive models for battery degradation and performance over time. ... Working knowledge of current types of Lithium Ion chemistries, typical chemical, electrochemical ...

Terra AI

Business Development Manager

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

As global demand for copper, lithium, nickel, rare earth elements, geothermal energy, and other ... Help establish and refine business development KPIs, reporting cadence, and funnel discipline

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Lithium Refining information

What is lithium refining?

Lithium refining is the process of purifying raw lithium ore or brine to produce high-quality lithium compounds, such as lithium carbonate or lithium hydroxide. These refined products are crucial for various industries, with a significant portion used in manufacturing batteries for electric vehicles and electronics. The refining process involves several steps, including extraction, concentration, purification, and chemical conversion, to ensure the lithium meets strict industry standards. As demand for lithium-ion batteries grows, efficient and sustainable lithium refining has become increasingly important.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in lithium refining, and why are they important?

To excel in lithium refining, you need a background in chemical engineering, metallurgy, or a related field, often supported by relevant degrees or certifications. Familiarity with process control systems, analytical laboratory equipment, and safety protocols such as OSHA standards is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork help individuals address complex challenges in refining environments. These skills and qualifications are critical for maintaining efficiency, safety, and product quality in the lithium supply chain.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in lithium refining, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in lithium refining often encounter challenges such as maintaining strict safety protocols due to the hazardous chemicals involved, ensuring consistent product purity, and adapting to evolving environmental regulations. To address these, it's important to stay current with industry best practices, participate in regular safety training, and collaborate closely with quality assurance and environmental teams. Additionally, leveraging advancements in refining technology and process automation can help mitigate risks and improve efficiency.

What is the difference between Lithium Refining vs Lithium Processing Technician?

AspectLithium RefiningLithium Processing Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in chemical handlingHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in chemical safety
Work EnvironmentIndustrial plants, chemical processing facilitiesManufacturing plants, chemical processing units
Industry UsageMining, chemical manufacturing, battery industryBattery manufacturing, chemical processing, manufacturing

While both roles involve working with chemicals in industrial settings, Lithium Refining focuses on the extraction and purification of lithium from raw materials, whereas Lithium Processing Technicians handle the operational aspects of processing lithium into usable forms. Both require technical skills and safety certifications, but their specific tasks and environments differ slightly.

What are popular job titles related to Lithium Refining jobs in California?

For Lithium Refining jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lithium Refining jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Lithium Refining jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Lithium Refining jobs?

Cities in California with the most Lithium Refining job openings:

Lithium Refining jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lithium Refining job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution.

Lead Process Engineer - Lithium

Berkshire Hathaway Energy

Calipatria, CA • On-site

$134K - $202K/yr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Berkshire Hathaway Energy rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description


The lead process engineer - lithium is a senior-level position responsible for leading and executing projects that support the safe, reliable, efficient, and cost-effective development of lithium and other mineral resources. This role applies advanced engineering principles, best industrial practices, and human performance tools to support plant operations at the BHE Renewables direct lithium extraction (DLE) plant in Calipatria, CA. The position applies technical expertise to complex projects and develops process enhancements. Responsibilities include collaborating with cross-functional teams to optimize process performance, improve equipment and system reliability, and ensure design efficiency in support of plant operations and continuous improvement. Mentors less experienced engineers. Works closely with the team to advance lithium and mineral development.
Responsibilities
  • Coordinates and leads internal and external resources to ensure the successful execution and delivery of assigned mineral development projects.
  • Responsibilities include project planning, scheduling, and overall project management while maintaining a Target Zero safety mindset.
  • Evaluates facility performance and provides recommendations to the plant manager regarding process improvement and operational optimization.
  • Analyzes operational data to identify and resolve process issues while maximizing facility performance.
  • Prepare and present analytical reports to communicate key operational insights to the team.
  • Reviews project designs, process documentation, and standard operating and testing procedures to ensure compliance with engineering principles, company standards, customer contract requirements and applicable codes and specifications.
  • Provides technical leadership in coordinating process development activities and resolving engineering design and testing issues.
  • Generates and/or reviews heat and mass balances as required, performs detailed equipment and process design calculations and develops technical specifications.
  • Recommends and implements facility and equipment performance testing related to the reliability, operability and efficiency of the specific equipment and its integration with plant operations.
  • Support pilot, demonstration, commercial-scale testing and operations.
  • Responds to operational needs and provides technical services to operations as required.
  • Maintains close coordination with operations and other functional teams to evaluate equipment performance, recommend design/specification improvements, monitor project performance trends, and identify technology upgrades to enhance facility operations.
  • Provides technical mentorship, guidance, and supervision to process engineers and interns to support their professional development and technical competence.
  • Perform additional responsibilities, including special projects, as requested, or assigned.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in chemical engineering or mechanical engineering with at least 10 years of experience as a practicing engineer in an industrial environment such as refinery, mineral processing facility, chemical plant or water treatment facility.
  • This is an operations focused role.
  • Candidates must be willing to work in a lithium recovery manufacturing plant located in Calipatria, California.
  • Must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions.
  • Must possess effective interpersonal skills, leadership abilities and relationship-building skills.
  • Able to mentor and provide direction to process engineers, as needed.
  • Must demonstrate effective analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
  • Must be able to make clear and precise decisions in critical situations.
  • Must have ability to prioritize and handle multiple projects and issues concurrently.
  • Must have the ability to use technical skills to focus ideas onto substantial projects.
  • Must show a willingness to learn, as well as to clearly communicate complex ideas and concepts to those with less technical background.
  • A valid driver's license is required.

About Us
BHE Renewables delivers sustainable energy solutions for customers and communities. We own, operate and develop wind, solar, geothermal, hydroelectric and natural gas projects in 11 U.S. states. The power generated is sold into energy markets or directly to customers through long-term purchase agreements.
Headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, BHE Renewables is an innovative and growing company with new offices in Phoenix and San Diego. Our 50/50 joint venture with Occidental Petroleum has led to a demonstration project showing how TerraLithium technology is used to extract lithium from the brine presently flowing through our geothermal plants in Imperial Valley, CA.
Our CHAMPION culture drives our success by fostering high expectations, ownership and continuous improvement within a respectful and inclusive team environment. Through the CHAMPION mindset, we focus on the fundamentals - preparation, planning and attention to detail - holding ourselves accountable to do simple better. Alongside this, the BHE Renewables CARES program encourages employee volunteerism and invests in our communities, reinforcing our commitment to excellence and collaboration, making us stronger together.
About the Team
BHE Renewables is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion or religious creed, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status (except as required by law), gender (including gender identity and expression), sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, genetic information, physical or mental disability, medical condition, veteran or military status, familial or parental status, marital status or any other category protected by applicable local, state or U.S. federal law. Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without an accommodation.

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