Staff Mechanical Engineer

About the role

Mariana Minerals is actively seeking a Staff Mechanical Engineer to spearhead the mechanical design, integration, and deployment of critical systems for a pioneering minerals processing pilot plant. This position represents a hands-on opportunity to work directly with cutting-edge refining technologies where your decisions will directly influence reliability, safety, and scalability for future commercial production. You will move beyond theoretical design to become a key builder and maintainer of this first-of-its-kind facility, ensuring that mechanical systems perform flawlessly under demanding conditions. Your expertise will be vital in bridging the gap between innovative process development and robust, real-world implementation. You will own the mechanical integrity of the equipment that drives our mineral separation and concentration trials. This role requires a proactive mindset capable of solving complex problems before they escalate into operational failures. Ultimately, you will be responsible for transforming abstract process requirements into tangible, functional machinery that advances our mission.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Design, specify, and deploy mechanical systems tailored specifically for pilot-scale mineral processing operations, ensuring they meet rigorous performance targets.
• Partner closely with process engineers to convert complex process needs into detailed mechanical and plant designs that are both efficient and constructible.
• Lead the installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance of critical pilot plant equipment, including pumps, piping networks, reactors, and filtration systems.
• Author and maintain comprehensive mechanical design documentation, including detailed equipment specifications, precise layout drawings, and accurate CAD models.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives focused on enhancing equipment reliability, maintainability, and overall operational performance within the plant environment.
• Act as the primary liaison with vendors, fabricators, and contractors to manage equipment procurement schedules and oversee installation quality.
• Champion plant safety by conducting thorough hazard reviews, implementing robust equipment safety designs, and upholding strict mechanical integrity programs.
• Utilize advanced CAD modeling techniques to develop intricate 3D representations of mechanical systems before physical construction begins.
• Develop detailed piping schematics that ensure efficient fluid flow and adherence to stringent safety and regulatory standards.
• Create precise equipment specifications that clearly communicate requirements to manufacturers and suppliers, minimizing ambiguity during procurement.

Requirements

• Hold a B.S., M.S., or PhD in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related technical field from an accredited institution.
• Bring a minimum of 9 years of progressive experience in operations, process scale-up, or plant design specifically within minerals processing, chemicals, specialty materials, or the oil & gas sectors.
• Demonstrate a proven track record in equipment design, successful commissioning, daily operations, and a relentless focus on long-term reliability.
• Possess extensive experience in designing and maintaining industrial furnaces, a wide array of pumps, complex fluid handling systems, pressure vessels, reactors, piping networks, valves, filtration equipment, separation units, and material handling systems.
• Exhibit a strong ability to function effectively and collaboratively within cross-functional teams, fostering seamless communication with process engineering and operations personnel.
• Apply strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills to diagnose and resolve issues in fast-paced, hands-on plant environments.
• Show an unwavering commitment to strict adherence to Health, Safety, and Environmental compliance standards as well as mechanical integrity best practices.
• Communicate technical information clearly and effectively, both in writing and verbally, while thriving in a team-oriented environment.
• Comfortably navigate ambiguity and manage multiple high-priority responsibilities simultaneously in a dynamic, fast-paced work setting.

Skills & tools

• Proficiency in CAD modeling is essential for creating detailed designs and modifications.
• Ability to develop and interpret complex piping schematics to ensure system integrity.
• Skill in drafting precise and comprehensive equipment specifications for procurement and fabrication.

Practical notes

This position is based on-site in Houston, Texas, requiring consistent presence at the primary work location. There are no remote work options or hybrid arrangements available for this role. Travel is not expected as part of the core responsibilities; the focus is on local execution and management within the Houston facility. Employment is offered as a full-time engagement, indicating a standard 40-hour work week is expected. There are no specific visa sponsorship details mentioned in the current listing, and the posting does not indicate any imminent deadlines for applications. Candidates should be prepared for an on-site work environment as this is a critical requirement for the successful execution of the pilot plant operations.