Process Manager

at  STELO

Job Title: Process Manager Lithium Mining Process Plant (Commissioning and Operations)
Location: Mali
Job Type: Contract, On-site 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 full-scale 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 hands-on approach to leading a team in a dynamic mining environment.

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, start-up, 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 start-up of lithium or other mineral processing plants.

• Plant Commissioning and Start-Up
• 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 start-up procedures to validate equipment performance and process parameters.
• Conduct system tests, troubleshoot start-up issues, and implement adjustments to bring the plant to an operational state.
• Oversee training programs to ensure plant personnel are well-prepared and knowledgeable about start-up 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.