Head of Hydrometallurgy

Founded in 2019, Brimstone is an innovative industrial startup with a proprietary, efficient, and deeply decarbonized process for producing Ordinary Portland Cement. We’re now growing our all-star team of sharp, mission-driven, collaborative professionals as we continue to refine our process and move towards construction of our first production facilities.

Job Summary: 

The Head of Hydrometallurgy (R&D) will be responsible for leading the research and development of innovative hydrometallurgical processes. This includes the conceptualization, development, and optimization of new aqueous-based processes for the extraction and refining of metals. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in hydrometallurgy, excellent leadership skills, and a proven track record of driving and implementing innovation in metallurgical research and development.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the hydrometallurgy R&D team, providing direction and support to ensure project goals are met.

• Ideate, develop and optimize new hydrometallurgical processes to improve efficiency, yield, and environmental performance.

• Collaborate with R&D, engineering, materials science and production teams to integrate new technologies and processes.

• Oversee the design, construction, and operation of pilot plants to test and validate new processes.

• Scale up processes from laboratory to pilot scale, with a view to industrial scale-up, ensuring successful implementation and integration.

• Size and select appropriate hydrometallurgical equipment, such as leaching reactors, solvent extraction units, and electro-winning cells.

• Ensure compliance with all relevant safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.

• Conduct cutting-edge research and stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in hydrometallurgy and related fields.

• Prepare and manage budgets, timelines, and resources for hydrometallurgical R&D projects.

• Mentor and develop team members, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.

• Provide operational oversight and support to ensure the smooth and efficient running of hydrometallurgical processes.

• Develop and implement operational strategies to enhance productivity and process reliability.

• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track progress and ensure alignment with organizational goals.

• Build and expand the hydrometallurgy team by recruiting top talent, fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. or Master's degree in Metallurgical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in hydrometallurgy, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.

• Strong knowledge of aqueous-based processes, chemistry, thermodynamics, and materials science.

• Proven experience in process development, optimization, and scale-up.

• Extensive experience in the operational aspects of hydrometallurgical processes.

• Excellent leadership, communication, and project management skills.

• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.

• Strong problem-solving skills and a proactive, hands-on approach to challenges.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with sustainable and environmentally friendly metallurgical processes.

• Knowledge of advanced analytical techniques and process modeling.

• Familiarity with industry standards and regulatory requirements.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

Our Commitment to Diversity

Brimstone is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in the workplace. We seek to build a unique team of individuals and create an environment where all backgrounds and experiences are respected and appreciated. We credit our success to the values that we uphold, and to the different perspectives each team member brings every day.  We would never intentionally discriminate on the basis of race, color, ancestry, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability status, pregnancy, veteran status, or any other status protected by federal or state law. 

We strive to provide an inclusive candidate experience. If there are any reasonable accommodations that you may need during the interview process, please let us know.