Metallurgical Technical Specialist- Lithium Conversion Refinery

Description
This role is categorized as hybrid . This means the successful candidate is expected to report to [ Cole Engineering Center , Warren MI] three times per week, at minimum [or other frequency dictated by the business
We are looking for a highly motivated and experienced Metallurgical Technical Specialist to work on a Li refinery and conversion processes. In this role you will support initiating a new process to produce key intermediates in the battery materials value chain. As the Metallurgical Technical Specialist you will initiate, design, and conduct the lab and pilot plant scale testing in support of the lithium refinery operation. The candidate will also lead the development and deployment of the metallurgy lab in support of the lithium refinery operation.
In addition, you will be responsible for identifying, designing, developing, and implementing process improvements along with process flowsheet, BOM, BOD, intermediate product specifications, as well as supporting strategic site initiatives.
Roles & Responsibilities

• Identify, design, develop, and conduct lab and pilot plant scale developing and testing programs to enhance the efficiency, productivity, and sustainability of the Lithium Refinery and in particular the conversion process.
• Collect scientific or technical data, and analyze experimental, test, or analysis data or findings.
• Develop schematics and detailed designs for commercial scale, chemical processing facilities used to convert mining intermediates and raw materials into state-of-the-art battery precursors.
• Developing and maintaining process flow diagrams, process design criteria, stream tables, process specifications, effluent & emissions summaries, and piping & instrumentation diagrams
• Interface with equipment suppliers through concept development, system design, detailed design, procurement, installation, and acceptance testing
• Document testing results and prepare testing reports and presentations.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to evaluate and implement optimization opportunities throughout the refining process.
• Contribute to strategic planning efforts by providing technical expertise and insights related to initial feed properties, specification, process flowsheet, and Materials engineering.
• Support a team of engineers, chemists, and technicians performing routine quality testing.
• Ensure all team members adhere to safety rules and good laboratory practices.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to align process technology initiatives with the overall company goals and objectives.
• Work closely with battery materials team for the introduction of novel materials and new process methods at commercial scale.
• Providing input to equipment specifications & datasheets, instrument datasheets, control narratives, and 3D plant layouts
• Stay up to date with industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Monitor and report ongoing lab work status to management while driving lab operational improvements.
• Develop operating procedures, safety protocols, and maintenance plans for large-scale chemical process equipment.
• Identify potential risks and challenges and develop mitigation strategies to ensure a smooth startup process.
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment that encourages innovation, creativity, and continuous improvement.
• Provide guidance, mentorship, and support to team members to maximize their potential and enhance their professional growth.

This job may be eligible for relocation benefits
Additional Description
Required Skills and Experience:

• Master's degree or higher in chemistry, materials science, chemical, metallurgical engineering, or equivalent Required
• PhD degrees preferred.
• 8+ years practical working experience in a materials/process lab environment where you had to initiate, design and conduct lab and pilot plant scale experiments on mining materials, chemical conversions, thermal processing, filtration, conversion, calciners, furnaces, waste conditioning, and material analysis.
• Working knowledge of chemicals, oxidation, calcination, roasting, hydrometallurgical, pyrometallurgical plant operations and related equipment.
• Proven track record in heat treatment processes, failure analysis, process technology, and process improvement
• Participation in engineering projects from concept development to commissioning and ramp-up.
• Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to analyze complex issues and develop innovative solutions.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to effectively convey technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and adapt to changing priorities.
• Evidence of exceptional ability, including understanding of engineering fundamentals and demonstrated ability to leverage this understanding to solve challenging problems.
• Experience with either hydrometallurgy and chemical processing. Examples may include experience with: Solid-liquid separation equipment - filters, pressure filters, filter presses, reactors/tanks, pressure vessels, wash water tanks, high pressure systems, high temperature and low temperature systems, systems with multiple recycle streams, scrubbers, heat exchangers, etc
• Experience with the following industries and/or production environments of large-scale mining, hydrometallurgy, chemical production processes, engineering, procurement, and construction.
• Practical working experience in metallurgical, materials and chemical engineering projects/industries, or related field.
• Experience working in a metallurgy/process lab environment and desire to initiate, design and conduct lab and pilot plant scale experiments in support of the operation.
• Proven track record in hydrometallurgy, chemical engineering, process technology, and process improvement
• Strong managing abilities, with a focus on fostering collaboration and driving results.
• Experience with large-scale mining, hydrometallurgy, and chemical production processes. Examples may include experience with high pressure systems, high temperature and low temperature systems, systems with multiple recycle streams, reactors/tanks - autoclaves, stirred reactor tanks, pressure vessels, wash water tanks, solid-liquid separation equipment.
• Participation in engineering projects from concept development to commissioning and ramp-up.
• Strong knowledge of chemical manufacturing processes, technologies, and industry standards.
• Willing to travel 15%

GM DOES NOT PROVIDE IMMIGRATION-RELATED SPONSORSHIP FOR THIS ROLE. DO NOT APPLY FOR THIS ROLE IF YOU WILL NEED GM IMMIGRATION SPONSORSHIP (e.g., H-1B, TN, STEM OPT, etc.) NOW OR IN THE FUTURE
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