Job Title: Process Manager Lithium Mining Process Plant (Commissioning and Operations)
Location: Mali
Job Type: Contract Onsite on rotation basis 6 weeks on 3 weeks off
Reports To: Operations Executive / Plant General Manager
Job Overview:
We are seeking a skilled Process Manager to oversee the commissioning operational readiness and fullscale operations of a lithium processing plant in Mali. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in establishing and optimizing the lithium extraction beneficiation and refining processes while ensuring high safety standards regulatory compliance and sustainable practices. This role is critical in driving the plant to operational efficiency and profitability from its initial stages through to full production. Candidates should have a solid background in mineral processing experience in plant commissioning and a handson approach to leading a team in a dynamic mining environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Plant Commissioning and StartUp
- Lead the commissioning phase coordinating with engineering teams vendors and contractors to ensure equipment is installed calibrated and functional according to specifications.
- Develop and oversee commissioning checklists test plans and startup procedures to validate equipment performance and process parameters.
- Conduct system tests troubleshoot startup issues and implement adjustments to bring the plant to an operational state.
- Oversee training programs to ensure plant personnel are wellprepared and knowledgeable about startup protocols and safety procedures.
- Operational Readiness
- Develop and implement operational readiness plans ensuring all processes resources and systems are in place for seamless transition to operational production.
- Coordinate with procurement maintenance and safety teams to establish protocols inventory and support systems necessary for smooth continuous operations.
- Design and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) maintenance schedules and performance metrics to ensure safe efficient plant operations from day one.
- Plant Operations Management
- Oversee daily operations to ensure production goals are met managing process control and optimization to maximize lithium yield and product quality.
- Monitor and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify areas for improvement and initiate corrective actions as needed.
- Lead the processing team providing guidance training and mentorship to process engineers operators and support staff.
- Safety and Environmental Compliance
- Establish and enforce safety protocols and procedures in compliance with local regulations and company policies conducting regular safety audits and risk assessments.
- Ensure environmental controls are in place to minimize impact manage waste and meet environmental standards.
- Promote a strong safety culture proactively identifying and mitigating potential hazards.
Requirements:
- Education: Bachelors degree in Chemical Engineering Metallurgical Engineering Mineral Processing or a related field. A Masters degree is a plus.
- Experience: Minimum of 10 years of experience in mineral processing with at least 3 years in a managerial role overseeing plant commissioning startup or operational management ideally within lithium or battery metals processing.
- Technical Skills:
- Strong expertise in process control plant commissioning and operations management.
- Proficiency in process engineering software as well as data analysis tools for performance monitoring and troubleshooting.
- Experience with lithium processing technologies such as crushing grinding flotation magnetic separation etc.
- Leadership Skills: Proven ability to lead a team with a focus on safety motivation and high performance in a remote challenging environment.
- Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English (French and or Chinese language skills are highly advantageous).
- Compliance Knowledge: Familiarity with international safety and environmental standards in the mining industry as well as local regulatory requirements.
- Adaptability: Willingness to work in a remote location in Mali and adapt to the challenges of a dynamic mining environment.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Fluency in French and or Chinese.
- Prior experience in African mining operations or other remote project sites.
- Demonstrated expertise in commissioning and startup of lithium or other mineral processing plants.
Working Conditions:
- The position entails working in a remote environment on a 6 week on 3 week off rotation and managing the various challenges and requirements of a highdemand mining operation.