Rare Earth Elements SME
Fairfax, VA · On-site +1
Translate resource data into volumetric assessments, mine planning inputs, and processing ... Provide strategic input to project partners, industry operators, and academic institutions.
Rare Earth Elements SME
Fairfax, VA · On-site +1
Translate resource data into volumetric assessments, mine planning inputs, and processing ... Provide strategic input to project partners, industry operators, and academic institutions.
Remote Mine Hoist Operator information
What is a remote mine hoist operator?
A Remote Mine Hoist Operator is a professional responsible for controlling and monitoring hoisting equipment used to transport materials, equipment, and personnel in and out of mines, typically from a remote location. They operate hoists using computerized systems and ensure all lifting operations are safe and efficient. The role involves constant communication with underground personnel, adherence to safety protocols, and troubleshooting equipment issues as they arise. Remote operation allows for increased safety and efficiency, as operators can manage hoists from secure, offsite control rooms.
What are the main challenges faced by remote mine hoist operators and how can they be addressed?
Remote Mine Hoist Operators often face challenges such as maintaining constant situational awareness, troubleshooting technical issues from a distance, and communicating effectively with underground teams. Since they operate heavy equipment remotely, clear protocols and reliable technology are essential to ensure safety and efficiency. Regular training on emergency procedures and ongoing coordination with onsite personnel help address these challenges, fostering a strong safety culture and minimizing downtime.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a remote mine hoist operator, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Remote Mine Hoist Operator, you need a strong understanding of mine hoisting systems, mechanical aptitude, and relevant safety certifications such as Mine Hoist Operator Certification. Familiarity with computerized control systems, SCADA interfaces, and emergency response protocols is typically required. Attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable movement of materials and personnel within mining operations.
What is the difference between Remote Mine Hoist Operator vs Remote Crusher Operator?
| Aspect | Remote Mine Hoist Operator | Remote Crusher Operator |
|---|---|---|
| Credentials | Certifications in hoist operation, safety training | Certifications in crusher operation, safety protocols |
| Work Environment | Underground or surface mine shafts, remote control rooms | Processing plants, remote control stations |
| Industry Usage | Mining industry, focusing on hoisting materials | Mining and aggregate industries, focusing on crushing materials |
While both roles operate remotely within mining environments, the Remote Mine Hoist Operator specializes in controlling hoisting equipment used to move ore and materials vertically, whereas the Remote Crusher Operator manages crushing machinery to process mined materials. Each requires specific certifications and works in different parts of the mining process, but both are essential for efficient mineral extraction and processing.
What do you need to be a remote mine hoist operator?
To become a remote mine hoist operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant technical training, and experience operating hoisting equipment. Certification or licensing may be required depending on the jurisdiction, and strong mechanical skills and attention to safety protocols are essential for the role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Mine Hoist Operator jobs in Virginia?
The most popular types of Mine Hoist Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Remote Mine Hoist Operator jobs in Virginia?
For Remote Mine Hoist Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Remote Mine Hoist Operator jobs in Virginia look for?
The top searched job categories for Remote Mine Hoist Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Remote Mine Hoist Operator jobs?
Cities in Virginia with the most Remote Mine Hoist Operator job openings:
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement
Re-posted 8 days ago
Job description
Based in the Washington, D.C. Metro area, Pivot Path Solutions, LLC , is a government contracting and business solutions firm that offers enterprise IT solutions, strategic and acquisition planning, organizational development, and medical research and analytics services to help customers adapt and thrive in changing market conditions. Pivot Path Solutions is seeking a highly experienced Rare Earth Elements (REE) Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support our growing portfolio with our public sector clients. This role provides high-level scientific, technical, and strategic expertise supporting federal R&D initiatives focused on critical minerals, rare earth extraction, processing, separation, recycling, and commercialization. The REE SME guides technology development, field demonstrations, and strategic program decisions across exploration, mineralogy, mining, beneficiation, hydrometallurgy, electrometallurgy, and materials applications.
This role ensures technical excellence, regulatory alignment, and scientific rigor for projects supporting U.S. rare earth supply chain resilience and domestic critical mineral independence. The REE SME also interfaces with Government stakeholders, research partners, and industry collaborators to validate technologies and de-risk emerging REE processes from TRL 2-7. This is a remote position.Key ResponsibilitiesTechnical Expertise & Scientific Leadership
Pivot Path Solutions strives to attract, motivate, and retain the best people in the industry. Our benefits package reflects our continued commitment to our employees by prioritizing the health and well-being of each member. The Company offers a comprehensive compensation package that includes:
This role ensures technical excellence, regulatory alignment, and scientific rigor for projects supporting U.S. rare earth supply chain resilience and domestic critical mineral independence. The REE SME also interfaces with Government stakeholders, research partners, and industry collaborators to validate technologies and de-risk emerging REE processes from TRL 2-7. This is a remote position.Key ResponsibilitiesTechnical Expertise & Scientific Leadership
- Serve as the primary authority on rare earth elements, critical minerals, and associated supply chains, including extraction, processing, separation, and end-use applications.
- Evaluate and guide advanced REE technologies across the full lifecycle:
- Geological resource characterization
- Mineral processing (crushing, grinding, flotation, gravity, magnetic separation)
- Hydrometallurgical and solvent extraction systems
- Ion exchange, membrane systems, electrowinning, precipitation
- Purification and separation of individual REEs
- Metallization and alloy production
- REE recycling from e-waste, magnets, and industrial byproducts
- Provide scientific oversight for TRL 2-6 R&D projects, ensuring clear TRL advancement pathways.
- Develop and review technical deliverables, white papers, and DOE-required documentation.
- Provide expertise on REE geological formations-including carbonatites, ion-adsorption clays, monazite, bastnaesite, phosphates, and coal byproducts.
- Support design, interpretation, and optimization of:
- Geochemical assays
- Geophysical surveys (EM, magnetics, radiometrics)
- Borehole logging
- Ore characterization and mineralogy studies
- Translate resource data into volumetric assessments, mine planning inputs, and processing flowsheets.
- Lead technical design and optimization of REE processing flowsheets, including material balances, mass/energy calculations, and separation efficiency modeling.
- Evaluate equipment selection, reagent chemistry, and process control strategies.
- Provide techno-economic analysis inputs (TEA), including CAPEX/OPEX assumptions for separation and refining steps.
- Ensure compliance with environmental standards related to REE mining and processing, including waste management, tailings, emissions, and radiation safety.
- Guide sustainability practices such as:
- Reduced energy and reagent consumption
- Waste minimization and co-product recovery
- Water efficiency and treatment technologies
- Environmental monitoring and permitting strategies
- Support pilot- and field-scale demonstrations of REE extraction, beneficiation, and processing technologies.
- Oversee sampling, pilot plant operations, and analytical validation activities.
- Assist in integration of automation, robotics, and real-time sensing technologies into REE operations.
- Work with DOE, DoD, USGS, NIST, and other federal programs on critical mineral research and policy.
- Provide strategic input to project partners, industry operators, and academic institutions.
- Contribute to consortiums, workshops, technical forums, and stakeholder meetings.
- Provide domain expertise in support of federal proposals, including DOE FOAs, DoD R&D solicitations, and USGS critical minerals programs.
- Shape R&D strategies, teaming approaches, and innovation pathways for REE projects.
- Review proposal technical volumes, management plans, schedules, and SOPO language.
- Master's or PhD in Metallurgy, Mining Engineering, Materials Science, Geochemistry, Geology, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
- 10+ years of experience in REE or critical mineral extraction, separation, processing, or manufacturing.
- Deep knowledge of mineralogy, processing technologies, hydrometallurgy, and REE refining flowsheets.
- Proven experience supporting federal R&D, pilot plant demonstrations, or advanced commercialization activities.
- Strong technical writing ability for scientific reports and federal deliverables.
- Experience with DOE, DoD, DARPA, ARPA-E, NETL, USGS, or NSF programs.
- Experience operating or designing pilot plants, metallurgical labs, or mining testbeds.
- Expertise in unconventional REE resources (coal ash, acid mine drainage, industrial byproducts).
- Experience with AI/ML-enabled mineral characterization or advanced sensing systems.
- Familiarity with U.S. critical mineral policy, supply chain risks, and international market dynamics.
- Strong analytical and systems-thinking abilities.
- Ability to translate complex scientific concepts into clear recommendations.
- Effective communication with technical, non-technical, and government stakeholders.
- Leadership in multidisciplinary environments and research consortia.
- Commitment to safety, sustainability, and scientific integrity.
- Hybrid work environment with potential travel to mine sites, proving grounds, pilot facilities, academic labs, and federal meetings.
- Ability to work around industrial equipment and in outdoor field settings as required.
- Must comply with all applicable safety and environmental protocols.
Pivot Path Solutions strives to attract, motivate, and retain the best people in the industry. Our benefits package reflects our continued commitment to our employees by prioritizing the health and well-being of each member. The Company offers a comprehensive compensation package that includes:
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance
- Generous Contribution on Health, Dental and Vision Insurances
- 100% Employer Paid Group Life Insurance, Short Term and Long-Term Disability
- Safe Harbor 401(K) Plan
- Health Saving Account (HSA)
- Healthcare Flexible Saving Account (FSA) and Dependent Care FSA
- Education Reimbursement
- Employee Referral Program