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 siteProvide technical leadership required for the operation of the analytical laboratoryProvide 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 functionsCoordinate analytical support as needed throughout the mining companyPlan 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 neededSupervise, or may serve as technical expert, on the most complex laboratory analysesSupervise the analysis of organic and inorganic products to determine chemical and physical properties, utilizing such techniques as chromatography, spectroscopy and spectrophotometryOversee formulations, development and preparation of standards and specifications for processes, facilities, products, and tests for determination of ore and product gradesResponsible for large scale laboratory project management to ensure work is properly managed for management, operation and adhering to customer priorities and deadlinesReview, recommend and implement new or enhanced laboratory equipment or protocolsCoordinate acquisition of new equipment, installation and training for lab personnelSupervise, enhance and monitor quality control, laboratory and analysis practices for the siteEnsure Quality Control/Quality Assurance through regular review and make appropriate corrections or recommendations to assure quality data response to business unitsReport quality control/quality analysis issues and make recommendations to appropriate site management for correctionResponsible for new analytical method developmentResearch, innovate and devise new equipment, and develop formulas, processes, and methods for solution of technical problemsContract with vendors as appropriate for provision of services and equipmentEvaluate and administer contracts with vendors for the provision of services and equipmentContribute to site strategic planning and budgeting efforts for laboratory or quality control/quality analysesActively participate in the selection, interview and hire of new employees in addition to mentoring and evaluating current employeesProvide guidance and counsel to the site management team on applicable programs, practices and existing/proposed local, state and federal regulationsMaintain current working knowledge of applicable Federal, State and local regulationsPerform other duties as requiredQualifications

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or closely related discipline (e.g., Chemical Engineering or Biology) and ten (10) years chemist or chemical lab experience in an area or areas relevant to the assignment, including previous lead or supervisory experience, ORMaster's degree in Chemistry or closely related discipline and seven (7) years chemist or chemical lab experience in an area or areas relevant to the assignment, including previous lead or supervisory experienceExperience in research lab operationsKnowledge of the principles and methods used in complex chemical, laboratory and quality assurance analysesAdvanced knowledge of the equipment, principles and methods used in complex chemical, laboratory and quality assurance analyses, data transfer and databasesAbility to research and analyze information of considerable difficulty and draw valid conclusionsAbility to develop and maintain awareness of occupational hazards and safety precautions.Skilled in following safety practices and recognizing hazardsSkilled in supervising, evaluating, training and motivating employeesSkilled in effective communication, both verbal and writtenProven demonstration of leadership/management abilities

 

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with statistical analysisExperience supporting Hydrometallurgical R&D teamsKnowledge of Spanish language, (this is preferred and not required)Knowledge of (LIMS) Laboratory Information Management SystemsKnowledge of Metallurgical plant operations

 

Criteria/ConditionsAbility to understand and apply verbal and written work and safety-related instructions and procedures given in EnglishAbility to communicate in English with respect to job assignments, job procedures, and applicable safety standardsMust be able to work in a potentially stressful environmentWork is in a lab or mine setting, which may include exposure to extremes in temperature and humidity, moving mechanical parts and risk of electrical shockWork does require appropriate knowledge and cautionary PPE to neutralize exposure to toxic chemicals, explosives, fumes or airborne particlesWhile performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand, sit, demonstrate manual dexterity, climb stairs and ladders, work on elevated platforms, talk, hear and seeOccasionally may be required to lift moderately heavy objects (up to 40 pounds) during the course of the workdayPersonal protective equipment is required when performing work in a mine, outdoor, or manufacturing plant environment, including hard hat, hearing protection, safety glasses, safety footwear, and as needed, respirator, rubber steel-toe boots, protective clothing, gloves and any other protective equipment as requiredFreeport-McMoRan promotes a drug/ alcohol free work environment through the use of mandatory pre-employment drug testing and on-going random drug testing as per applicable State Laws

What We Offer You  

The estimated annual pay range for this role is currently $107,000-$149,000. 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 incentive compensation considerations based on company and individual performance.  Additionally, this position is currently eligible for annual long-term incentive consideration.  Long-term incentives are contingent upon authorized approval under the terms and conditions of the Company's plan and award agreements.  More details will be shared during the hiring process.  Click here to view a sample of Total Rewards Estimate for this role.  

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.     

 

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.