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 Maintain current working knowledge of applicable Federal, State and local regulations Perform other duties as required Qualifications

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, OR Master'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 experience Experience in research lab operations Knowledge of the principles and methods used in complex chemical, laboratory and quality assurance analyses Advanced knowledge of the equipment, principles and methods used in complex chemical, laboratory and quality assurance analyses, data transfer and databases Ability to research and analyze information of considerable difficulty and draw valid conclusions Ability to develop and maintain awareness of occupational hazards and safety precautions. Skilled in following safety practices and recognizing hazards Skilled in supervising, evaluating, training and motivating employees Skilled in effective communication, both verbal and written Proven demonstration of leadership/management abilities

 

Preferred Qualifications

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

 

Criteria/Conditions Ability to understand and apply verbal and written work and safety-related instructions and procedures given in English Ability to communicate in English with respect to job assignments, job procedures, and applicable safety standards Must be able to work in a potentially stressful environment Work is in a lab or mine setting, which may include exposure to extremes in temperature and humidity, moving mechanical parts and risk of electrical shock Work does require appropriate knowledge and cautionary PPE to neutralize exposure to toxic chemicals, explosives, fumes or airborne particles While 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 see Occasionally may be required to lift moderately heavy objects (up to 40 pounds) during the course of the workday Personal 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 required Freeport-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.