Head of Mining Engineering

Job Summary:
We are seeking an experienced Head of Mine Engineering to join our upstream business unit. Reporting directly to the Vice President of Mining and Processing this role will initially focus on mine design Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS) contributions and support for pilot and demonstration projects including our heap leach demo. As the Round Top project advances toward production the position will evolve to encompass full responsibility for mine operations including team building scaling operations and oversight of day-to-day mining activities. This is a key leadership role in a lean dynamic team environment requiring a hands-on leader who can transition from strategic planning to operational execution.

Key Responsibilities:

Early-Stage Focus (PFS and Pilot Support):

• Lead mine planning efforts for the PFS including pit optimization sequencing scheduling and resource integration with geology and resource characterization teams.
• Collaborate with the EPCM lead author processing team and project management to provide technical inputs on mine design equipment selection and cost modeling.
• Support pilot and demo initiatives such as heap leach design and operations planning to ensure alignment with flow sheet development and oxide production goals for downstream qualification.
• Conduct economic evaluations and risk assessments for mining scenarios incorporating data from resource models and upstream acquisition opportunities.
• Oversee the use of mine planning software (e.g. Vulcan Leap Frog or equivalent) to develop accurate models and simulations.

Long-Term Focus (Operations and Team Scaling):

• Assume responsibility for mine operations as the project moves to Feasibility Study (FS) and construction phases including contractor management fleet operations and production optimization.
• Build and lead a mining operations team starting from a small group (2-3 engineers) and scaling to full operational staffing with emphasis on training safety and efficiency.
• Develop and implement operational strategies for sustainable REE extraction including waste management water usage and compliance with Texas regulations.
• Drive continuous improvement in mining processes integrating data from processing and geology to enhance recovery rates and reduce costs.
• Support upstream acquisition efforts by evaluating potential REE deposits for additional oxide supply.

General Duties:

• Ensure all activities align with health safety and environmental (HSE) standards collaborating with the permitting specialist and HSE manager.
• Foster cross-functional collaboration across processing project management and downstream divisions to meet oxide delivery timelines.
• Prepare reports and presentations for senior leadership investors and regulatory bodies.

Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Mining Engineering Geological Engineering or a related field; Masters degree preferred.
• 8 years of experience in mine planning and operations with at least 5 years in a leadership role.
• Proven track record in open-pit mining heap leach operations or similar extractive processes; experience with REE or critical minerals projects is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in mine planning software and tools (e.g. Leap Frog or Vulcan).
• Strong understanding of PFS/FS processes economic modeling and regulatory compliance in the U.S. mining sector (MSHA).
• Excellent leadership and communication skills with the ability to build teams in a startup-like environment.
• Willingness to work in a lean organization handling both strategic and tactical tasks.

Preferred Skills

• Familiarity with REE-specific challenges such as variable ore grades and integration with hydrometallurgical processing.
• Experience in pilot-to-production scaling including demo plant support.
• Knowledge of sustainable mining practices and ESG reporting.
• Professional certifications (e.g. PE in Mining Engineering) are a plus.

Work Environment

The work environment will be a mix of a typical laboratory environment mining site and construction site.

Noise level:

Exposure will vary and include normal office noise typical laboratory sounds (e.g. ventilation systems equipment operation) mine site noises and construction site noise depending on project phase and location.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities duties skills required of personnel so classified. The reporting relationship may not reflect the most recent changes to the corporate reporting structure.

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USA Rare Earths policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and will provide reasonable accommodations according to applicable federal state and/or local laws.

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Required Experience:

Director