Chemist

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Chemist supports site operations by providing accurate, timely analytical data on ore, process streams, and products. This role performs chemical analyses; operates and maintains lab instrumentation; applies QA/QC practices; and supports method development and continuous improvement. Depending on experience, the Chemist may also lead method development and validation, support or oversee QA/QC programs, mentor other lab staff, and participate in audits and improvement projects. The Chemist is expected to promote a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with MSHA, EPA, State, and Company requirements.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Analytical Testing & Instrumentation

• Perform and help lead QA/QC programs, including use of standards, blanks, duplicates, control charts and trend analysis, calibration verification, and investigation/correction of non-conforming or out-of-control results.
• Prepare and digest samples following approved SOPs and QA/QC requirements.
• Operate, calibrate, and perform basic troubleshooting and maintenance on laboratory instruments.
• Record and report result accurately using LIMS and/or approved data systems

QA/QC & Data Integrity

• Apply established QA/QC protocols, including standards, blanks, duplicates, and control charts.
• Review data for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with internal and customer requirements.
• Assist in investigations and corrective actions when out-of-control or non-conforming results occur.
• For higher-level roles: perform basic statistical evaluations of method performance and lab trends.

Method Development & Continuous Improvement

• Support the development, validation, and standardization of analytical methods for copper and associated elements in ore, concentrate, electrolyte, cathode, and other process streams, including specialized assays such as ASCu, RSCu, TCu, ferric leach, and other metallurgical tests.
• Assist in method comparison and improvement projects for key assays (e.g., ASCu, RSCu, FSCu, TCu, leach tests).
• Develop and refine specialized copper assays such as ASCu, RSCu, TCu, ferric leach, and other metallurgical tests, ensuring accuracy, precision, and operational relevance.
• Contribute ideas and participate in continuous improvement, Lean, and quality initiatives.

Safety, Compliance & Housekeeping

• Work safely and comply with all Company, MSHA, OSHA, and environmental regulations.
• Handle reagents, samples, and waste according to safety and environmental procedures.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe laboratory work area.
• Participate in inspections and audits as required.

Leadership & Training (as applicable)

• Provide technical guidance to technicians and less-experienced chemists.
• Assist with training on SOPs, safety procedures, QA/QC practices, and instrument operation.
• For more senior chemists help coordinate daily workflow and priorities in the laboratory.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Minimum Requirements (Entry to Mid-Level Chemist)

• Bachelor's degree in chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related scientific field.
• Experience with wet chemistry and instrumental techniques (e.g., AAS, XRF) in an industrial or academic lab.
• 0-5 years of relevant laboratory experience in analytical or inorganic chemistry, preferably in mining, minerals, or process industries.
  • Candidates with greater experience may be considered for higher-level Chemist roles.
• Ability to understand and apply scientific methodology and QA/QC principles.

Preferred / Advanced Level Experience (for higher-level Chemist roles)

• Master's degree (or equivalent experience) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Process Metallurgy, or related discipline.
• Several (typically 5+) years of progressively responsible experience in analytical or metallurgical/process laboratories, preferably in copper or mining operations.
• Experience in method development/validation, advanced QA/QC, and mentoring or informal supervision.
• Demonstrated experience with copper assays and metallurgical QC (e.g., ASCu, RSCu, FSCu, TCu, leach tests).
• Experience with Lean Six Sigma or continuous improvement and with mining LIMS (e.g., AssayNet or similar).
• Final title and level (e.g., entry, mid, or higher-level Chemist) will be determined based on experience and qualifications.

SKILLS & OTHER REQUIREMENTS

• Strong technical, analytical, and troubleshooting skills with laboratory instruments and methods.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook); familiarity with LIMS or similar systems.
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced lab.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Physically capable of working in a mining environment with appropriate PPE; able to lift up to 50 lbs. and stand for extended periods, with potential exposure to chemicals, heat, noise, and dust.
• English language fluency.
  • At least CEFR B2 - Upper Intermediate: Can understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions English language fluency.

*All employees are subject to annual physical examinations as a condition of employment.

A core value of ASARCO LLC is "Safety First." The Company is committed to helping employees continuously improve their efforts to work in the most safe, inclusive, socially and environmentally responsible manner practicable. Employee safety and health, both on and off work, are critically important to the Company. Therefore, ASARCO LLC requires employees to have and effectively demonstrate good working

knowledge of modern safety systems. Each employee will take prime responsibility for ensuring that s/he works within all required safety procedures and processes.

ASARCO LLC is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates must possess a current and valid driver's license. Offers of employment are contingent upon successful criminal background check and pre-employment physical including a drug screen.

ASARCO LLC offers an excellent low-cost benefits package for medical/prescription/ dental/vision, disability coverage, life insurance and other optional coverage and 401(k) plan with company matches.

The Ray Mine is located 64 miles southeast of Phoenix and 70 miles northeast of Tucson. We have a robust carpool / vanpool program and encourage employees to participate. Employees save more than 50% of their commuting costs while reading, sleeping or just enjoying the view.