Chemist R&D (Hydrometallurgy)
- Develop and optimise refining processes for iron ore.
- Conduct laboratory experiments and analyse data to support process decisions.
- Collaborate with teams to implement process improvements and ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards.
Our Opportunity
Work Location: Forrestfield, Perth – Fortescue’s green iron research & development facility is located on the traditional lands of the Whadjuk Noongar people
Roster: Monday to Friday
Summary
Reporting to the Lead Chemist, the Chemist is responsible for developing, optimizing, and supporting refining processes for iron ore. This role bridges laboratory research, pilot-scale testing, and plant implementation, with a strong focus on process efficiency, reagent optimization, metallurgical performance, and environmental compliance.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, execute, and interpret hydrometallurgical test work (leaching, precipitation and crystallization).
- Optimize operating parameters to improve process recovery, selectivity, and reagent efficiency.
- Investigate and resolve process bottlenecks and metallurgical issues.
- Plan and conduct laboratory experiments using appropriate analytical instruments such ICP-OES, auto-titrator, XRD and XRF.
- Analyse experimental data to support process decisions.
- Maintain accurate laboratory records and databases.
- Collaborate with process engineers, operations, and R&D teams to implement process improvements.
- Provide technical input during commissioning, troubleshooting, and steady-state operations.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives across processing operations.
- Ensure all laboratory activities comply with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
- Promote best practices in chemical handling, waste management, and risk assessments
- Contribute to the development of safer and more sustainable hydrometallurgical processes.
Qualifications and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Metallurgy, or a related discipline.
- Minimum 5 years of industry experience
- Strong understanding of hydrometallurgical principles and mineral processing or industrial chemical processing.
- Hands-on laboratory experience in hydrometallurgy is highly regarded.
- Ability to work autonomously and collaboratively in a dynamic team environment
- Ability to interpret analytical data and apply sound chemical reasoning.
- Well-developed interpersonal skills in building rapport and maintaining stakeholder relationships
About Us
Be part of something big. Fortescue is leading the world with our plan to decarbonise our iron ore operations, projects that harness renewable energy and the development of technology that will change our planet forever.
Our Commitment
Fortescue celebrates individual strengths and team members are encouraged to bring their whole selves to work. Our global workforce drives and promotes an inclusive culture, both within our organisation and throughout the communities we interact with. Diverse backgrounds include First Nations Peoples, people with disabilities, LGBTQ+ community, gender, neurodiverse, cultural diversity, all age groups, and those with an intersectional or multiple diverse characteristics. We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.
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