Principal Chemist

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 Technology Center is home to a team of globally recognized engineers and scientists who provide innovative mining, processing and environmental solutions to our operations throughout the world. Our employees make use of state-of-the-art laboratories and test facilities, including a fully automated analytical lab – the first of its kind in the Americas. Employees provide direct support in a variety of areas: mineral processing, hydrometallurgy, analytical chemistry, mineralogy, process economics, mining and geology.   

 

Whether you choose to live in Green Valley, Sahuarita or Tucson, you will enjoy spectacular sunsets and mild winters, as well as numerous local attractions. Tucson is home to the Pima Air and Space Museum, University of Arizona and Sonora Desert Museum. Other notable community staples are several schools, hospitals, restaurants, parks, shopping centers and more. Visit sahuaritaaz.gov and tucsonaz.gov to learn more.  

Description

Provide management and technical guidance to ensure the safe and efficient operation of a state of the art analytical/research lab facility, and provides leadership and training to Freeport-McMoRan Analytical and Research labs world-wide. Lead lab research techniques and innovations, development and standardization of lab processes to optimize efficiency of ore analysis and extraction; thorough and conscientious review of technology application, implementation of appropriate innovation and instrumentation, regulation application, and personnel management.  

• Manage, enhance and monitor the overall safe operation of the analytical laboratory including quality control, laboratory control and analysis practices for the site
• Provide technical leadership required for the operation of the analytical laboratory
• Provide site leadership including oversight for chemists, engineers and other supervisors (e.g., Quality) as appropriate; approve and/or establish SOP's and safety training; responsible for staffing budgeting, purchasing & customer support functions
• Coordinate analytical support as needed throughout the mining company
• Plan and host training for uniformity of world-wide operations; participation in company sponsored steering teams such as Freeport-McMoRan Analytical Services steering team. Provide technical guidance to operations worldwide, as needed
• Supervise, or may serve as technical expert, on the most complex laboratory analyses
• Supervise the analysis of organic and inorganic products to determine chemical and physical properties, utilizing such techniques as chromatography, spectroscopy and spectrophotometry
• Oversee formulations, development and preparation of standards and specifications for processes, facilities, products, and tests for determination of ore and product grades
• Responsible for large scale laboratory project management to ensure work is properly managed for management, operation and adhering to customer priorities and deadlines
• Review, recommend and implement new or enhanced laboratory equipment or protocols
• Coordinate acquisition of new equipment, installation and training for lab personnel
• Supervise, enhance and monitor quality control, laboratory and analysis practices for the site
• Ensure Quality Control/Quality Assurance through regular review and make appropriate corrections or recommendations to assure quality data response to business units
• Report quality control/quality analysis issues and make recommendations to appropriate site management for correction
• Responsible for new analytical method development
• Research, innovate and devise new equipment, and develop formulas, processes, and methods for solution of technical problems
• Contract with vendors as appropriate for provision of services and equipment
• Evaluate and administer contracts with vendors for the provision of services and equipment
• Contribute to site strategic planning and budgeting efforts for laboratory or quality control/quality analyses
• Actively participate in the selection, interview and hire of new employees in addition to mentoring and evaluating current employees
• Provide guidance and counsel to the site management team on applicable programs, practices and existing/proposed local, state and federal regulations
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