Research and Development Scientist (Lithium)

Description

The R&D Scientist conducts projects and research to support the safe, reliable, efficient, and cost-effective recovery of minerals from geothermal brine with a focus on lithium through the implementation of human performance improvement tools, scientific practices, and scientific principles. The position holder applies technical expertise to complex problems and develops process enhancements and solutions. The position holder collaborates with engineers to maintain design efficiencies, engineering and special projects relating to operations, research, and development. The position holder works closely with the senior research and development director to advance lithium and mineral recovery and production.

Responsibilities

• Plan, generate, and conduct research and development projects based on lithium recovery project requirements; prepare preliminary and final execution plans, success criteria, project schedule, necessary feasibility studies, reports, and cost estimates
• Review project design, process, and standard operating and test procedures for compliance with scientific principles, company standards, customer contract requirements and applicable codes and specifications
• Coordinate activities concerned with technical developments, and resolution of engineering design and test problems
• Recommend and implement lab and pilot scale equipment performance testing related to the reliability, operability and efficiency of the specific equipment and its relationship to plant operations
• Respond to operating needs and provides services to operations and engineering as required
• Maintain close contact with these groups to evaluate plant relevant equipment performance, recommend design/specification improvements, trend project performance, technology upgrades and keep up to date with the technologies utilized in the processes and research those needed for special projects
• Perform additional responsibilities, including special projects, as requested, or assigned

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering, technical or business-related field with emphasis on chemical engineering
• PhD degree preferred
• Three years of research or engineering experience desired, preferably in the mining or lithium recovery industry
• Must possess effective interpersonal skills, leadership abilities and relationship-building skills
• Must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions
• Must demonstrate effective analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills
• Must be able to make clear and precise decisions in critical situations
• Must have ability to prioritize and handle multiple projects and issues concurrently
• Must have the ability to use technical skills to focus ideas onto substantial projects
• Must show a willingness to learn as well as to clearly communicate complex ideas and concepts to those with less technical background
• A valid California driver’s license is required
• Work Environment Characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions
• While performing the duties of this job the employee may work near moving machinery and maybe exposed to fumes and airborne particles
• Occasionally the employee is exposed to toxic or caustic chemicals, as well as loud area sand hot piping
• During the course of performing assigned duties the employee may be required to work with or be exposed to hazardous substances and occupational hazards
• The company will provide the employee with initial training on all known hazardous substances and occupational hazards prior to allowing the employee to perform a particular duty unsupervised
• Annual refresher training will also be provided on all known hazards and new hazards as they are identified

Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without an accommodation.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion or religious creed, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status (except as required by law), gender (including gender identity and expression), sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, genetic information, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, familial or parental status, marital status or any other category protected by applicable local, state or U.S. federal law.