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Metallurgical Engineering Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, or equivalent * 3+ years' experience as a Metallurgical or Process Engineer in a mineral processing plant * Proven experience and ...

STAFF METALLURGIST

Tucson, AZ · On-site

$90 - $130/hr

A B.S. degree in Mining Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related discipline, with coursework in hydrometallurgy at a minimum. An M.Sc. in a metallurgy- or ...

College Intern - Generation Engineering

Gilbert, AZ · Hybrid

$16.75 - $21.75/hr

What You'll Do Under the guidance and mentorship of a Metallurgical Engineer, the College Intern will support a variety of metallurgical and materials engineering activities, including:

Showing results 21-40

Metallurgical Engineering information

See Arizona salary details

$30.8K

$87.6K

$135.6K

How much do metallurgical engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for metallurgical engineering in Arizona is $87,625.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,200.00 and $101,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is metallurgical engineering?

Metallurgical engineering is a branch of engineering that focuses on the study of metals, their properties, and the processes used to extract, refine, and manufacture products from them. Metallurgical engineers work with both pure metals and alloys to improve their performance, durability, and cost-effectiveness in various applications. They are involved in processes such as mining, metal extraction, alloy development, heat treatment, and quality control. This field plays a crucial role in industries like automotive, aerospace, construction, and electronics.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a metallurgical engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Metallurgical Engineer, you need strong knowledge of materials science, metallurgy principles, and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with laboratory analysis tools, metallurgical software (such as Thermo-Calc or JMatPro), and safety protocols is typically required. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for collaborating with teams and ensuring product quality. These skills and qualifications are crucial for developing innovative materials, improving manufacturing processes, and ensuring the performance and safety of engineered products.

What are some typical challenges metallurgical engineers face when working on large-scale projects?

Metallurgical engineers on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as ensuring material quality meets rigorous standards, troubleshooting unexpected material failures, and coordinating across multidisciplinary teams. They must adapt to evolving project specifications and timelines, all while maintaining safety and cost-effectiveness. Effective communication with engineers, suppliers, and quality assurance teams is vital to address these challenges and ensure project success.

What is the difference between Metallurgical Engineering vs Materials Science Engineering?

AspectMetallurgical EngineeringMaterials Science Engineering
FocusExtraction, processing, and properties of metals and alloysDesign, development, and analysis of all types of materials including polymers, ceramics, and composites
Work EnvironmentMining sites, metal production plants, research labsResearch labs, manufacturing, product development
CredentialsBachelor's in Metallurgical or Materials Engineering, certifications in metallurgyBachelor's in Materials Science or Engineering, certifications in materials testing

Metallurgical Engineering primarily focuses on metals and their processing, while Materials Science Engineering covers a broader range of materials including polymers and ceramics. Both fields share similar credentials and work environments, but their applications and specializations differ.

Is a metallurgical engineer a good career?

A metallurgical engineer is a skilled professional who specializes in extracting, processing, and analyzing metals and alloys. The field offers opportunities in industries such as manufacturing, mining, and materials development, often requiring knowledge of materials science, laboratory skills, and safety protocols. Job prospects depend on industry demand and geographic location, with a typical work environment involving technical problem-solving and project management.

What jobs can a metallurgical engineer do?

A metallurgical engineer can work in roles such as materials scientist, process engineer, quality control engineer, or research and development specialist. They often work in industries like mining, manufacturing, aerospace, and energy, utilizing skills in materials analysis, testing, and process optimization.

What are popular job titles related to Metallurgical Engineering jobs in Arizona?

For Metallurgical Engineering jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Metallurgical Engineering jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Metallurgical Engineering jobs in Arizona are:

What cities in Arizona are hiring for Metallurgical Engineering jobs?

Cities in Arizona with the most Metallurgical Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Metallurgical Engineering job openings in Arizona as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,625 per year, or $42.1 per hour.

Director Metallurgical Development FMA

Freeport McMoRan

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 hours ago


Key responsibilities

  • Oversee ore characterization and develop process flowsheets for plant expansions.

  • Engage with internal teams and external partners to ensure alignment with design and automation objectives.

  • Manage project execution by coordinating resources, achieving schedule and cost targets, and communicating progress to stakeholders.


Freeport-McMoRan rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 141 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 41 rated mining


Job description

Why You Should Apply for This Job 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 Our global headquarters is in Phoenix, Arizona. Several hundred employees support global operations in finance, human resources, information technology, planning and more from the main office, satellite offices or online. As a Hybrid employee, you'll engage in virtual collaboration as well as attend in-person meetings at our Collaboration Hub in Phoenix or at one of our site locations.

The Collaboration Hub provides an open, flexible workspace for individuals and teams to come together for various business needs. Amenities at the Hub include a working cafe, phone booths and meeting rooms with technology tools for virtual and in-person collaboration.In-person attendance may vary based on the position and department requirements. Phoenix is the capital of the Grand Canyon State and enjoys mostly bright skies throughout the year

It is the perfect place if you enjoy the outdoors, love sports, concerts and other big city amenities or technology. There are great neighborhoods around Phoenix, with easy access to a major city, nature, the arts and many more amenities. What You Will Do This role is focused on driving value by improving the metallurgical performance of current and future processing plants, particularly for FMAmericas, including overseeing ore characterization, acting as the Qualified Person (QP) for SEC reporting of ore reserves, developing process flowsheets for plant expansions including major equipment sizing, engaging with internal teams and external engineering partners to ensure alignment with design and automation objectives, evaluating new technologies, maintaining supplier relationships, and supporting site personnel in resolving critical challenges.

Strategic Planning including opportunity identification and framing, converting opportunities into projects for execution, gaining approval for new projects from stakeholders, and identifying resources to assist with project execution. Technology and Innovation including embracing and leaning into technology and innovation to add value and assessing strategic fit of various technologies. Project Execution including management of internal and external resources, accountability for achieving project schedule and cost outcomes, and regularly communicating project status and outcomes to stakeholders.

Relationship Building including engagement with internal technical services, wider organization personnel, vendors, consultants, metallurgical labs, maintaining and expanding industry networks, and coaching and mentoring team members while managing performance. Other responsibilities include preparing and presenting updates to executive management and partners, preparing technical materials for patents and conferences, and organizing site and other visits. What You Bring To Freeport BSc or BE with ten (10) years' experience in the mineral processing or engineering related fields.

At least 5 year of experience at a mine site. Specialized technical expertise in three (3) metallurgy-related areas and good general knowledge in another four (4) metallurgy-related areas including crushing, grinding, flotation, leaching, smelting, hydrometallurgy, liquid-solid separation, tailings, materials handling, process modeling and simulation, statistical analysis, process automation control, sampling and assaying, and metallurgical accounting. Proficiency in speaking, listening, and writing English.

Ability to travel 60-90 days per year. Preferred Qualifications Experience as a Mill Operations or Mill Technical Services manager. Working knowledge of the Spanish language.

What We Offer You 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. 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. International travel required (at least 2 times per year for 2 weeks at a time). Up to 25% Domestic travel required.

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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