Our client, a biomining startup focused on increasing copper recovery from low-grade sulfide ores via chemical additives. Is in search of a Geochemist SME to join the team in greater Bay Area, CA.
This Role will own mineral geochemistry workflows for copper/iron/sulfur systems, help run lab-to-pilot-scale column/heap experiments and modelling, and support delivering time-sensitive pilot deliverables with external partners.
First 3 months:
- Complete geochemical characterization for at least two ore types; finish small-scale high-throughput screening of current pilot project sample
6 months:
- Scale from high-throughput screening system successfully leads to lab-scale experiments
12 months:
- Successful transfer to pilot scale (larger lab metallurgical columns) with a partner
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead mineral geochemistry characterization of real-world ore samples across lab→pilot scales
- Specialize in (Cu-Fe-S) with particular focus on speciation
- Support with running high-throughput screening and lab column experiments; operate across lab and pilot setups
- Geochemical data analysis and modelling (translate results into process parameters)
- Liaise with cross-disciplinary internal team (biology, chemistry, process engineers) and external partners/clients; deliver projects on time
- Own hands-on lab execution with autonomy; prepare materials for pilots and field transfer
- Develop and apply a broad range of advanced analytical techniques (including ICP-OES, ion chromatography, microwave digestion, etc.)
- Interact directly with external partners, hydrometallurgy experts, and pilot clients
- Deliver projects on time in an industrial setting
MUST HAVE EXPERIENCE
- PhD + 2 years of industry experience or MS + 6 years of industry experience.
- Minimum 2 years delivering projects in an industrial/delivery setting (real world industry experience vs purely academic environments)real-world
- Demonstrable mineral geochemistry expertise (geology/ores/mining focus) — non-planetary geochemistry emphasis
- Technical depth in copper/iron/sulfur systems; sulfur speciation knowledge required
- Experience with advanced analytical techniques (ICP, ion chromatography, microwave digestion, speciation analysis, etc.)
- Proficiency with geochemical modelling software (Geochemist's Workbench)
- Strong cross-disciplinary communication; hands-on, proactive, able to operate autonomously in a small team
- Ability to work full-time onsite.