Chief Technical Officer Lithium BU - W/M

Eramet and its subsidiary Eramine has started the operation of its first 24kt Lithium Carbonate plant in Argentina in the Province of Salta (Centenario 1st Plant) at the end of 2024. Following this first step, we are preparing the construction of a second plant on the same Salar while optimizing the performance of the first plant (i.e. process improvements, brine reinjection, use of Solar PV…).

 

In the meantime, this first Direct Lithium Extraction plant (DLE) is expected to accelerate the growth of Eramet Lithium platform and reinforce the pipeline of Lithium projects opportunities that Eramet is currently developing (Centenario phase 2, AGELI project in France, projects in Chile, numerous other projects in discussion by the Business Development Team…).

 

 Job description

 

Eramet, a global leader in responsible mining and metallurgy, is seeking an experienced Chief Technical Officer (CTO) for its Lithium Business Unit. This newly created role is instrumental in supporting the rapid expansion of Eramet’s lithium operations, overseeing engineering, operational excellence, and strategic project execution. The CTO will play a critical role in ensuring the success of large-scale industrial projects, as well as optimizing the performance of the company's first lithium plant in Argentina and supporting future lithium developments worldwide.

 

Location & Travel Requirements

 

• Position based in Paris, France
• Frequent international travel (~10 days per month) to:
  • Existing operations (Argentina, Chile).
  • Customers/partners (Asia, US).
  • Vendors & engineering firms (EU, US).

 

Responsibilities

 

As Chief Technical Officer, you will be responsible for:

 

Operational Excellence at Eramine's First Plant:

• Support the COO and CTO of Eramine in ensuring high standards for safety, quality, asset integrity, maintenance, and cost control.
• Provide guidance during operational crises (e.g., major breakdowns, safety incidents).
• Oversee mine planning, brine reinjection, and process optimization strategies.

 

Project Management & Execution:

• Oversee Greenfield and Brownfield capital projects, ensuring successful execution and adherence to budget and timelines.
• Lead project tracking, business case reviews, and ensure operational readiness before start-up.
• Support project teams in resolving key technical and planning challenges.
• Provide strategic reporting on project status to senior management.

 

Business Development & Strategic Assessments:

• Evaluate new lithium project opportunities in collaboration with Business Development, Geology, and Process teams.
• Review scoping studies and assess economic and technical feasibility.
• Ensure consistency in technical approaches across different lithium projects.
• Assist in structuring deals and partnerships with third parties.

 

Leadership & Stakeholder Engagement: