We have an Exciting opportunity for a R&D and Technical Process Director in the Precious Metal smelting sector, Alabama, USA

Kindly note this position is based in Alabama, USA

Overview of the R&D and Technical Process Director Role:

Report to Plant Manager

Responsible for providing process, metallurgical, and chemical engineering solutions to improve the overall process flow and yields of precious metals through the plasma arc smelting and top blown rotary (TBRC) process.

Further, this position will make recommendations on paths forward regarding operational efficiency, changes or enhancements to the current operating practices, and disposition and use of sampled materials.

Work closely with the commercial business development team and lead the R&D efforts to evaluate new processes and business opportunities.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Knowledgeable of refining and concentrating precious metal percentages in molten material

Implementing and supporting process improvement action plans

Monitoring and providing technical guidance on all plasma arc smelting and TBRC activities

Leadership of all research and development efforts to evaluate potential new business opportunities

Troubleshooting operational issues in the plasma arc smelting and TBRC area

Developing best practices and standards through data analysis and experiences

Evaluation of current operational status throughout the facility, and implement changes as appropriate

Qualifications:

Platinum experience (non-negotiable)

Graduate-level degree required, preferably Chemical Engineering, Metallurgy, or comparable (Master’s accepted; PhD preferred)

Multi-year experience in smelting or refining precious metals and/or TBRC furnaces

Strong candidates will have experience in smelting, high-temperature processing of precious metals, plasma arc, TBRC operations, slag compositions, refractories, furnace design, oxy-fuel combustion, and combustion systems.

Demonstrated effective teamwork skills

Willing to take initiative and work proactively to increase PGM yield

Ability to lead TBRC and plasma arc team and set direction for operations

Strong project management skills

Must be self-motivated, inquisitive, and enjoy working in a fast-paced environment

Must have good critical process thinking skills and working application of Lean Principles

Must enjoy keeping abreast of the latest technology trends and have the ability to apply these technologies to the business and business problems where appropriate