Associate Metallurgical Engineer

About Mariana Minerals

Mariana Minerals is a software-first, vertically integrated minerals company on a mission to supply the critical minerals powering modern energy, AI, and defense technologies. We’re reimagining the minerals supply chain by combining deep industry expertise with advanced software, automation, and data-driven decision-making.

Role Overview

Mariana Minerals is seeking a highly motivated Associate Metallurgical Engineer to support process development activities and pilot-scale testing for our CopperOne mine pilot facility in San Francisco. You will work alongside experienced engineers and technicians supporting our bioleaching columns and other pilot-scale equipment used to develop new mining technologies. This is a hands-on, entry-level role where you will help transition technologies from laboratory research to pilot testing and ultimately commercial mining. You will work closely with R&D, technicians, metallurgists, and cross-functional teams to learn, contribute, and help improve our processes.

What You’ll Do

• Operate, troubleshoot, and improve leaching columns and other pilot-scale processing equipment in collaboration with technicians

• Design and execute pilot-scale experiments with guidance from senior engineers

• Develop and maintain key process documentation including PFDs, P&IDs, operating procedures, and mass balances

• Analyze experimental and operational data to help identify opportunities for process improvement

• Support development of automated monitoring and optimization tools in collaboration with software and machine learning teams

• Support safe operations by following EHS procedures and assisting with hazard assessments, risk management, and management of change processes

What You’ll Bring

• B.S. or M.S. in Chemical Engineering, Mining Engineering, Metallurgy, or a related field

• 0–2 years of relevant experience through internships, research, co-ops, or full-time work

• Strong problem-solving skills and an interest in experimental process development

• Experience analyzing data using Excel, Python, MATLAB, or similar tools is a plus

• Strong commitment to Health, Safety, and Environmental compliance

• Excellent technical writing, communication, and teamwork skills

• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, learning new skills, and collaborating across teams

Our culture is built on three principles:

Extreme Ownership – We take full responsibility for outcomes, relentlessly driving toward solutions.

Engineer Out Requirements, then Automate – We simplify, optimize, and then automate for scale.

Share Your Legos – We collaborate openly, share knowledge, and empower each other to build bigger, better solutions.

Join us as we build the future of responsible mineral sourcing and supply.