Company: North American technology-based company, affiliated with a prestigious U.S. university Purpose of the Role
Lead the development, adaptation, and field validation of a globally unique and innovative lithium extraction process, ensuring its correct implementation in Chilean operations through a solid scientific foundation, numerical modeling, and data-based experimental validation. Key Responsibilities
Lead R&D; projects applied to lithium extraction processes under real operating conditions.
Develop, adapt, and optimize process engineering models and numerical simulations.
Design and execute pilot and industrial trials of the products and processes developed.
Validate hypotheses through experimental and statistical evidence.
Work in close collaboration with engineering, operations, and scientific teams in the U.S.
Prepare high-level technical reports for the board and strategic partners.
Transfer knowledge to local operations teams.
Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and quality standards. Role Requirements
Education
PhD in Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering, Metallurgy, Materials Science, or a related field. Experience
Minimum 3 years of post-PhD professional experience in non-metallic mining — ideally lithium, salts, or hydrometallurgical/chemical processes.
Experience spanning product research and process scale-up; testing at laboratory, pilot, and industrial scale; and mathematical modeling and process simulation.
Experience in innovation-driven environments is desirable.
Technical
Knowledge
Chemical process engineering.
Statistical analysis and process control.
Scientific methodology applied to industrial settings. Languages
Advanced English (mandatory): ongoing interaction with U.S.-based teams. Key Competencies
Strong analytical thinking and capacity for abstraction.
Strong orientation toward data-driven results.
Technical autonomy and scientific leadership.
Ability to work in high-uncertainty environments.
Effective communication with technical and executive teams.
Focus on innovation applied to industrial outcomes. Role Conditions
Work base: Antofagasta.
Direct participation in a project of integral strategic impact in the lithium industry.
Ongoing interaction with research centers in the United States.
International growth potential.
Compensation aligned with executive-technical level (confidential, competitive).