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Temporary Leach Pad Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Understanding of heap leach pad construction, stacking systems, solution management infrastructure ... S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms.

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Temporary Leach Pad Operator information

What is the difference between Temporary Leach Pad Operator vs Heap Leach Operator?

AspectTemporary Leach Pad OperatorHeap Leach Operator
CertificationsOSHA safety training, basic mining certificationsOSHA safety training, basic mining certifications
Work EnvironmentMining sites, leach pad areas, outdoorMining sites, heap leach facilities, outdoor
Industry UsageUsed during initial leaching phases or short-term projectsUsed for ongoing or long-term heap leaching operations

Both roles involve working in mining environments with safety certifications and outdoor settings. The main difference is that Temporary Leach Pad Operators typically work during specific project phases or short-term operations, while Heap Leach Operators handle continuous, long-term heap leaching processes. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify job expectations and industry roles.

What kind of jobs in media bring in $150,000 a year?

A Temporary Leach Pad Operator typically does not earn $150,000 annually, as this role is usually an entry- to mid-level position with lower compensation. High-paying media jobs that can reach or exceed this salary include senior roles such as media executives, producers, or specialized technical positions like broadcast engineers, often requiring extensive experience, advanced skills, and sometimes management responsibilities.

What's the highest paying job in waste management?

In waste management, senior roles such as Waste Management Director or Environmental Manager tend to be the highest paying, often earning six-figure salaries. These positions typically require extensive experience, certifications, and management skills, and may involve overseeing operations, compliance, and strategic planning.

What is a senior plant operator?

A senior plant operator is an experienced worker responsible for overseeing and managing the operation of processing equipment, such as leach pads, in a mining or processing plant. They typically have advanced technical skills, certifications, and may supervise junior staff to ensure safety and efficiency in plant operations.

What are some common challenges faced by Temporary Leach Pad Operators and how can they be managed?

Temporary Leach Pad Operators often encounter challenges such as working in varying weather conditions, managing chemical handling safely, and maintaining consistent leach pad irrigation flows. To manage these effectively, operators should follow strict safety protocols, use personal protective equipment, and communicate closely with both maintenance and process teams to address issues promptly. Staying organized and adhering to established procedures can help minimize risks and ensure the leaching process runs smoothly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Temporary Leach Pad Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Temporary Leach Pad Operator, you need knowledge of mining operations, basic mechanical aptitude, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with heavy equipment, leach pad irrigation systems, and safety protocols is essential, and some roles may require MSHA certification. Strong attention to detail, reliability, and the ability to work well in a team environment are important soft skills. These skills and qualifications are crucial to ensure safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible operation of the leach pad in mining settings.

What is a leaching operator job description?

A leaching operator is responsible for managing and monitoring the leaching process in mineral extraction, ensuring the proper operation of leach pads and related equipment. They perform tasks such as inspecting equipment, recording data, and maintaining safety standards, often working with chemicals and requiring knowledge of environmental regulations. The role typically requires physical stamina, attention to detail, and familiarity with process control systems.

What are Temporary Leach Pad Operators?

Temporary Leach Pad Operators are workers hired on a short-term basis to assist in the operation and maintenance of leach pads at mining sites. Their responsibilities typically include monitoring the leaching process, ensuring proper distribution of leaching solutions, inspecting pad integrity, and reporting any issues or irregularities. They play a key role in ensuring the efficient extraction of valuable minerals from ore using chemical solutions. These operators often work under the supervision of permanent staff and must follow strict safety and environmental guidelines. Temporary positions may last for a few weeks to several months, depending on project needs.
What cities are hiring for Temporary Leach Pad Operator jobs? Cities with the most Temporary Leach Pad Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Leach Pad Operator jobs? The most popular types of Leach Pad Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Temporary Leach Pad Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Temporary Leach Pad Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Temporary Leach Pad Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 23% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 72% Temporary, and 2% Summer. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.
Process Operations Technician - Hydromet CLP

Process Operations Technician - Hydromet CLP

Freeport McMoRan

Morenci, AZ

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Freeport-McMoRan rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 138 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 33 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 townwebsiteto learn more. 

What You Will Do

Highly skilled employee who provides on-going support for completion of daily production/operation plan by assisting area supervisors. Perform as safety contact and execute safety audits, investigations and resolve safety issues/concerns through collaboration with site's Safety Department. Review routine and non-routine chemical or metallurgical analysis and reporting. Communicate with operators to ensure equipment is operating properly. Operate plant and equipment as necessary. Monitor a wide variety of data gathering equipment. Assign operators to the areas per the supervisor's instruction. Follow up to ensure supervisor expectations are being met. Provide mentoring/coaching through collaboration with processing departments and support groups.

  • Support site objectives through the performance of a variety of roles to develop broad understanding of processes, procedures, and initiatives (e.g. fill in supervisor, process operator, equipment operator) while assisting in completion of production plans with direction from the area supervisor and coordinating equipment operation and production improvements.
  • Participate in audits (e.g. grating, fatal risks, MSHA, safety, environmental), provide feedback and training on proper procedures, observe compliance with safety and environmental requirements, ensure housekeeping standards, check for hazards, and follow up on corrective actions.
  • Assist in troubleshooting process performance and quality issues (e.g. throughput, downtime, recovery), meet with supervisors each shift to review plans, assignments, and training, notify maintenance of breakdowns and follow up on repairs.
  • Collaborate with operations and maintenance to address safety concerns identified in inspections and audits, perform as relief or fill-in supervisor, occasionally operate processing equipment (e.g. CLP control room, thickeners, tanks, pumps, cooling tower, steam generator, lab), assist with investigations and Root Cause Analyses, and perform other duties as requested.
What You Bring To Freeport
  • Three (3) years of related operational experience including supervisory or lead experience.
  • Must have completed academic and practical competencies required and demonstrated the ability to apply knowledge and skills while passing a written assessment where required.
  • Skilled in operation and principles of pressure vessels, thickeners, cooling towers, pumps, valves, lab.
  • Knowledge of operational areas, policies, processes and procedures.
  • Knowledge of supervisory methods and techniques.
  • Skill in resolving day-to-day questions and problems regarding equipment, materials, methods and procedures.
  • Skill in effective communication both verbal and written.
  • Ability to develop and maintain awareness of occupational hazards and safety precautions.
  • Skill in following safety practices and recognizing and controlling hazards.
  • Skill in the use of computers.
  • Ability to understand and apply verbal and written work and safety-related instructions in English.
  • Ability to communicate in English regarding job assignments, procedures, and safety standards.
  • Additional certifications or licensure appropriate to the job may be required.
Preferred Qualifications
  • High School diploma or GED.
  • Experience in sulfide oxidation processes such as smelting or pressure oxidation operations.
  • Experience with pressure oxidation and/or autoclave operations and understanding of associated risks and risk management processes.
  • Strong knowledge of autoclave and pressure oxidation safety.
  • Knowledge of hydrometallurgy process.
  • Skilled in SAP.
  • Completed leadership training courses.

What We Offer You 

The estimated pay range for this role is currently$31.00- $41.00/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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