Metallurgy and Process Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Manager of Metallurgy and Process Design

Company: Turner Mining Group

Location: Phoenix, Arizona, US

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Operations Management / Process Engineering

Date Posted: April 14, 2026

Experience Level: Senior (10+ years)

Remote Status: Hybrid (Remote work available from most U.S. states, with travel required)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead strategic metallurgical initiatives across growth projects, operational support, and corporate programs, ensuring alignment with GTM strategies.

• Drive best practices in mineral processing and extractive metallurgy through technical leadership and project oversight.

• Provide critical data-driven analysis and insights to inform executive decision-making and project execution.

• Mentor and develop technical teams, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.

• Collaborate cross-functionally to ensure seamless integration of metallurgical processes within broader mining and engineering frameworks.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is in mining, the emphasis on "strategic initiatives," "project oversight," "collaboration," "data-driven analysis," and "mentorship" aligns directly with core competencies expected in Revenue Operations, Sales Operations, and GTM leadership roles. The title "Manager of Metallurgy and Process Design" implies a significant focus on optimizing complex processes, managing project lifecycles, and influencing strategic outcomes, all key aspects of operations management.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead strategic metallurgical projects, encompassing detailed planning, rigorous evaluation, and successful execution from conception to completion.

• Offer specialized technical guidance and expertise in critical areas such as mineral processing, leaching technologies, and advanced geo-metallurgical modeling.

• Foster robust collaboration with both internal teams (e.g., engineering, operations, finance) and external stakeholders (e.g., consultants, vendors, regulatory bodies) to ensure effective project development and timely delivery.

• Provide essential support for reserve reporting and other related technical functions, ensuring data integrity and accuracy.

• Develop comprehensive cost analyses, meticulously define project scopes, and create detailed resource plans to ensure efficient allocation of capital and personnel.

• Prepare and deliver compelling updates and presentations on project status, findings, and recommendations to executive leadership and key stakeholder groups.

• Actively mentor and develop technical teams, cultivating their skills and supporting talent development initiatives to build a high-performing operations group.

• Contribute to the advancement of metallurgical science through technical publications, patent applications, and active engagement in industry forums and conferences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed, such as "strategic projects," "technical guidance," "collaboration with stakeholders," "cost analyses," "resource plans," and "presenting to leadership," are highly transferable to operations management roles. The focus on driving change, improving plant performance, and managing complex projects mirrors the challenges and objectives within operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mining Engineering, or a closely related field).

Experience:

• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mineral processing and leaching operations.

• At least 5 years of experience in operational roles, with a preference for demonstrated leadership experience.

Required Skills:

• Deep expertise in geo-metallurgical testing, robust data interpretation, and the application of findings to process optimization.

• Proficiency in regression analysis, advanced modeling techniques, and simulation tools for process forecasting and improvement.

• Extensive experience with the processing of large porphyry copper deposits, including understanding unique challenges and solutions.

• Proven ability to champion and drive significant change initiatives that demonstrably improve plant performance and operational efficiency.

• Exceptional analytical and data-driven problem-solving skills, with a capacity to translate complex data into actionable operational strategies.

Preferred Skills:

• Broad experience across multiple metallurgical disciplines, including crushing, grinding, flotation, solvent extraction (SX/EW), and hydrometallurgy.

• Prior background in plant operations management or technical support leadership roles.

• Experience with financial and economic evaluations, including business case development and ROI analysis (MBA or equivalent experience highly valued).

• Demonstrated success in managing complex, multi-disciplinary engineering and operational projects.

• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills, with the ability to influence and engage diverse teams and stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The combination of technical depth (geo-metallurgy, modeling) and management experience (operational roles, project support, leadership) is indicative of a senior operations role. The emphasis on data interpretation, problem-solving, and driving change is a direct parallel to the demands of operations management in any complex industry.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase documented instances of leading or significantly contributing to the optimization of complex metallurgical or process engineering workflows.

• Provide quantifiable metrics demonstrating improvements in plant performance, efficiency, cost reduction, or yield enhancement resulting from your process design contributions.

• Include examples of system implementations or upgrades you have managed or influenced, detailing the challenges, solutions, and outcomes.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate experience in designing and documenting detailed process workflows, from initial concept and feasibility studies through to detailed engineering and operational handover.

• Provide examples of implementing process automation or control strategies to enhance efficiency, safety, and consistency.

• Showcase methods used for measuring process performance, analyzing results, and iterating on designs for continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: Operations roles, especially at the management level, often require a portfolio that demonstrates tangible results. This section infers that such a portfolio is expected, focusing on process optimization, data-driven improvements, system implementation, and measurable ROI, which are hallmarks of effective operations professionals.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $138,000 – $193,000 (Base Salary) per year.

• 📝 Enhancement Note: This salary range is based on the provided information for a senior-level Manager in a specialized technical field in the Phoenix, Arizona area. For comparison, senior operations managers and process engineering leads in similar industries and locations typically fall within this bracket. Market data from sources like Glassdoor, LinkedIn Salary, and industry-specific compensation surveys for engineering and operations management roles in major US metropolitan areas (like Phoenix) were considered. The range reflects the extensive experience and leadership responsibilities required.

Additional Compensation:

• Eligible for performance-based annual bonuses.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage for employees and eligible dependents.

• 401(k) retirement savings plan with a company match to support long-term financial planning.

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays for work-life balance.

• Tuition assistance programs to support continuous learning and professional development.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility often afforded to management roles to meet project demands.

• 📝 Enhancement Note: While a 40-hour work week is standard, management roles in technical fields often require flexibility to address critical project deadlines, operational issues, or international stakeholder needs, which may involve extended hours or working across different time zones.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Mining & Metals. Turner Mining Group is involved in the exploration, development, and operation of mining assets, focusing on delivering value through responsible resource management and operational excellence in a competitive global market.

Company Size: While not explicitly stated, the structure implies a significant operational footprint, likely mid to large-sized, with dedicated corporate functions and multiple project sites.

Founded: Information not directly provided, but the company's involvement in growth projects suggests established operations and a forward-looking strategy.

Team Structure:

• The Metallurgy and Process Design Manager will likely lead a specialized team of metallurgists, process engineers, and technical specialists focused on specific project phases or operational areas.

• This role will report into a senior executive, such as a VP of Technical Services, VP of Operations, or Chief Operating Officer, indicating high visibility and strategic importance.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on data-driven decision-making, leveraging geo-metallurgical testing, modeling, and performance analytics to guide process design and optimization.

• A structured approach to project management, including rigorous planning, scope definition, risk assessment, and resource allocation.

• Commitment to best practices in mineral processing and extractive metallurgy, fostering innovation and continuous improvement.

• Focus on talent development and mentorship to build internal expertise and leadership capacity within the technical teams.

Company Website: https://turnermining.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The description points to a company that values technical expertise, data-driven approaches, and strategic growth. For operations professionals, this translates to an environment where process optimization, efficiency improvements, and strategic project execution are highly valued and directly impact business outcomes.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior management position, overseeing critical technical functions that directly influence project viability, operational efficiency, and profitability. It represents a leadership role with significant strategic impact and team management responsibilities.

Reporting Structure: The Manager will likely report to a Vice President or equivalent senior leader within the Technical Services or Operations division. This provides direct access to executive leadership and a clear line of sight into strategic priorities.

Operations Impact: The role's impact is profound, directly influencing the economic feasibility of mining projects through optimized metallurgical processes, improved recovery rates, and reduced operational costs. Success in this role can significantly enhance project ROI and overall company profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into broader operational leadership roles, such as Director of Operations or VP of Technical Services, overseeing larger departments or multiple technical disciplines.

• Specialized Expertise Development: Opportunities to become a recognized subject matter expert in specific areas of extractive metallurgy or mineral processing, potentially leading to principal engineer or chief metallurgist positions.

• Strategic Project Leadership: Leading major capital projects or corporate-level strategic initiatives, offering exposure to executive decision-making and complex business challenges.

• Cross-functional Exposure: Potential to transition into roles with broader commercial or strategic planning responsibilities, leveraging a deep understanding of operational drivers.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a key leadership opportunity within the technical operations of a mining group. The growth path emphasizes progression within specialized technical operations management, with avenues for broader leadership and strategic involvement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily remote-friendly but requires significant travel. This suggests a hybrid work model where the individual operates from a home office but is expected to be present at project sites or corporate offices for key meetings, site visits, and collaborative sessions.

Office Location(s): While the primary job posting is for Phoenix, Arizona, remote work is available from most U.S. states. Travel will be required to various project sites, which could be domestic or international, and potentially to corporate offices for specific engagements.

Workspace Context:

• Home Office: Candidates are expected to maintain a productive home office environment conducive to remote work, equipped with reliable internet and necessary technology.

• Collaborative Environment: When traveling or attending in-person meetings, the environment will be collaborative, involving cross-functional teams, site personnel, and executive stakeholders.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to specialized metallurgical simulation software, data analysis platforms, and standard office productivity tools will be essential.

Work Schedule:

• A standard 40-hour work week is the baseline, but the nature of project management and operational support in the mining industry often necessitates flexibility. This may include extended hours, weekend work during critical project phases, or adjusting schedules to accommodate international team collaborations or site visits.

• 📝 Enhancement Note: The remote-friendly aspect combined with travel indicates a need for strong self-management and adaptability to different work settings and schedules.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess alignment with the core qualifications and experience.

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion focusing on your expertise in metallurgy, process design, geo-metallurgical modeling, and experience with porphyry copper deposits. Expect scenario-based questions and problem-solving challenges.

• Project Portfolio Review: Presentation and discussion of key projects from your portfolio, highlighting your role, methodologies, challenges, and quantifiable results. This is a critical step to demonstrate practical application of your skills.

• Leadership & Team Fit Interview: Evaluation of your leadership style, mentorship capabilities, collaboration approach, and alignment with Turner Mining Group's culture and values.

• Executive Interview: Final discussion with senior leadership to assess strategic thinking, business acumen, and overall fit for the company's long-term vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 2-3 impactful projects that best showcase your experience in process optimization, strategic project leadership, and driving measurable results in mineral processing.

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly articulate the challenge, your specific role and actions, the methodologies and tools used, the key decisions made, and the quantifiable outcomes (e.g., % improvement in recovery, cost savings, project completion time).

• Highlight Process Design & Optimization: Emphasize your contributions to designing, improving, or troubleshooting metallurgical processes. Detail how you used data (geo-metallurgical, operational) to inform these decisions.

• Demonstrate Leadership & Collaboration: Include examples of how you led teams, collaborated with diverse stakeholders, and managed complex project dynamics.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics and data to demonstrate the business impact of your work. Focus on ROI, efficiency gains, and performance improvements.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for case studies related to optimizing a specific metallurgical process, troubleshooting a plant performance issue, or developing a resource plan for a new project.

• Practice articulating your thought process clearly and concisely, explaining your assumptions and the rationale behind your recommendations.

• Understand how to balance technical rigor with practical considerations like cost, timelines, and stakeholder alignment.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, the portfolio is paramount. It serves as concrete evidence of an applicant's ability to execute complex technical projects, manage processes, and deliver tangible business value, mirroring the evidence-based approach expected in operations roles.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Metallurgical Simulation Software: Experience with industry-standard software for process modeling and simulation (e.g., METSIM, JKSimFloat, HSC Chemistry, GAMS).

• Data Analysis & Statistical Software: Proficiency in tools for data interpretation, regression analysis, and statistical modeling (e.g., Excel with Analysis ToolPak, R, Python with libraries like Pandas/NumPy, MATLAB).

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools for project planning, tracking, and resource management (e.g., Microsoft Project, Asana, Jira, Primavera P6).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Database Management: Experience with querying and managing data from various sources, potentially including SQL.

• Business Intelligence (BI) Tools: Familiarity with BI platforms for data visualization and dashboard creation (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) to communicate findings to stakeholders.

• Spreadsheet Software: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data manipulation, analysis, and reporting.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how metallurgical data integrates with broader ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) or project management systems is beneficial.

• Familiarity with automation principles in process control systems (e.g., SCADA, DCS) for operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack for this role is highly specialized, focusing on engineering and data analysis tools. The inclusion of BI tools and understanding of ERP integration highlights the need for operations professionals to bridge technical execution with broader business systems and reporting.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Technical Excellence: A commitment to rigorous scientific principles, data integrity, and continuous learning to maintain cutting-edge metallurgical expertise.

• Safety & Responsibility: Prioritizing the health and safety of personnel and the environmental stewardship of operations, aligning with industry best practices and regulatory compliance.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering an environment where diverse technical perspectives are valued and integrated to achieve shared project and operational goals.

• Innovation & Efficiency: Encouraging creative problem-solving and the implementation of innovative solutions to optimize processes, reduce costs, and enhance performance.

• Results Orientation: A focus on delivering tangible outcomes, meeting project deadlines, and achieving measurable improvements in plant performance and profitability.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Working closely with engineering disciplines, site operations, R&D, and corporate functions to ensure seamless project execution and operational support.

• Open Communication: Encouraging transparent dialogue, proactive information sharing, and constructive feedback loops across all levels of the team and with stakeholders.

• Mentorship & Knowledge Sharing: A culture of investing in team development, sharing expertise, and fostering a learning environment where best practices are disseminated and adopted.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values emphasize a blend of technical rigor, operational discipline, and collaborative problem-solving. For operations professionals, this means an environment that values data-backed decisions, efficiency, and teamwork to achieve strategic business objectives.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Project Management: Navigating the complexities of large-scale mining projects with long lead times, significant capital investment, and inherent geological uncertainties.

• Driving Change in Established Operations: Implementing new metallurgical processes or optimizations within existing operational frameworks can face resistance; requires strong change management and stakeholder buy-in.

• Geological Variability: Adapting processes to variations in ore bodies and mineralogy, which can impact recovery rates and require continuous process adjustments.

• Global Market Dynamics: Responding to fluctuating commodity prices and evolving market demands that influence project economics and operational priorities.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Metallurgical Techniques: Opportunities to gain expertise in emerging technologies and methodologies in mineral processing and extractive metallurgy.

• Project & Financial Management: Developing skills in managing large capital projects and understanding financial evaluation models through direct experience and potential training.

• Leadership Development Programs: Access to internal or external training focused on enhancing leadership, strategic planning, and team management capabilities.

• Industry Engagement: Opportunities to present at conferences, participate in technical committees, and contribute to industry standards, enhancing professional visibility and network.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section outlines the inherent challenges of the mining industry and the role, framing them as opportunities for professional growth and skill development, a key aspect for ambitious operations professionals.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a strategic metallurgical project you led from conception to completion. What were the key phases, challenges, and your specific contributions to its success?" (Preparation: Focus on project lifecycle, stakeholder management, and quantifiable outcomes.)

• "How would you approach optimizing the leaching process for a new porphyry copper deposit with known variability in mineralogy?" (Preparation: Detail your data-driven methodology, simulation tools, and risk mitigation strategies.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Turner Mining Group and this specific role in our growth initiatives?" (Preparation: Research the company's recent projects, strategic goals, and align your experience with their objectives.)

• "How do you foster a collaborative environment among technical teams and with cross-functional departments like operations and finance?" (Preparation: Provide examples of your communication style and experience working with diverse teams.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling with Data: Frame your portfolio projects as compelling narratives, clearly explaining the context, your role, the actions taken, and the impactful results achieved through data and metrics.

• Focus on Process Optimization: Specifically highlight how your metallurgical and process design expertise led to tangible improvements in efficiency, recovery, cost, or safety.

• Demonstrate Strategic Thinking: Show how your technical decisions contributed to larger project goals and business objectives.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your methodologies, assumptions, and the technical specifics of your past projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for a role of this caliber requires demonstrating both deep technical expertise and strong operational and strategic leadership capabilities, with a clear emphasis on quantifiable results and effective communication.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Turner Staffing Breezy HR portal.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in strategic project leadership, process design, mineral processing, geo-metallurgical modeling, and team management, using keywords from the job description. Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best demonstrate your expertise in process optimization, project execution, and driving measurable results. Be ready to present these with clear objectives, methodologies, challenges, and quantifiable outcomes.

• Research Turner Mining Group: Understand the company's current projects, strategic focus, and values. Prepare to discuss how your skills and experience align with their growth objectives and operational philosophy.

• Practice Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on the STAR method for behavioral questions and preparing detailed explanations for technical and strategic scenarios. Practice articulating your portfolio projects concisely and impactfully.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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