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San Francisco, California, United States
Onsite
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.
The Role
The R&D Technician executes designed experiments and operates chemical processing equipment to advance Mariana Minerals' hydrometallurgical and purification technologies. This hands-on role focuses on running DOE protocols, operating tank reactors and purification systems, and analyzing data to optimize extraction and separation processes for critical minerals.
What You'll Do
Execute Design of Experiments (DOE) protocols for chemical processing, extraction, and purification
Operate tank reactors, filtration systems, separation equipment, and purification units at bench and pilot scale
Prepare chemical solutions and reagents according to experimental specifications
Monitor and control process parameters: temperature, pH, flow rates, residence time, and reagent dosing
Perform systematic sampling and material handling throughout process streams
Collect experimental data including process parameters, weights, volumes, and analytical results
Analyze data using Excel and statistical tools to evaluate performance and identify optimization opportunities
Generate clear data visualizations, charts, and summary reports
Maintain detailed laboratory notebooks and digital documentation
Support DOE planning and multi-variable optimization studies
Perform routine maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting of processing equipment
Follow all chemical handling, PPE, and MSHA/OSHA safety protocols
Maintain clean, organized, and safe laboratory environments
Conduct hazard assessments for chemical processes and experimental setups
Desired Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Metallurgy, or related technical field preferred
2-5 years' experience in chemical processing, hydrometallurgy, or laboratory/pilot plant operations
Experience with Design of Experiments (DOE) methodology and statistical analysis highly desirable
Hands-on experience with chemical reactors, filtration, and separation equipment
Advanced Excel proficiency (pivot tables, statistical functions, data visualization)
Understanding of chemical process fundamentals (mass balance, stoichiometry, reaction kinetics)
Knowledge of purification techniques (precipitation, solvent extraction, ion exchange, crystallization)
Ability to read P&IDs and process flow diagrams
Experience with DOE software (JMP, Minitab, Design-Expert) is a plus
Exceptional attention to detail and data integrity
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Excellent communication and documentation abilities
Self-motivated with ability to manage multiple experiments
Unwavering commitment to safety and quality
Valid driver's license required
Everyone Gets Home Safe. We never put speed or cost ahead of people.
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!
