Chemical Engineer

Job Summary

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

We have an exciting opportunity for a Chemical Engineer to join our Uranium Resources Group near Grants, New Mexico. This role bridges the gap between conceptual process design and physical plant realization.


The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in chemical or mechanical engineering with specific expertise in mineral processing workflows, plant layout, and construction oversight. You will play a pivotal role in optimizing current operations and leading capital projects from Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) through to commissioning.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

Process & Plant Design

• Develop and review Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) and Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) for mineral processing circuits (comminution, leaching, solvent extraction, precipitation, and drying).
• Perform detailed equipment sizing and selection for pumps, tanks, thickeners, crushers, and material handling systems.
• Conduct hydraulic calculations, heat and material balances, and pressure relief sizing.
• Collaborate with civil/structural and electrical teams to ensure optimal plant layout and constructability.

Project Management & Construction Support

• Prepare technical scopes of work for equipment procurement and construction contracts.
• Provide field engineering support during the construction phase, resolving Requests for Information (RFIs) and technical queries from contractors.
• Lead or assist in Plant Commissioning and Start-up activities, troubleshooting operational issues during the ramp-up phase.
• Manage small to medium-sized capital projects, tracking schedules and budgets.

Safety & Compliance

• Participate in Process Hazard Analyses (PHA) and HAZOP studies.
• Ensure all designs comply with MSHA regulations and specific uranium radiation safety standards (ALARA principles).
• Adhere to all company policies and procedures.
• Perform other duties as reasonably required within the scope of the employee's skills and experience.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.

Job Qualifications

• Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution and progressive engineering experience as follows; six or more years of experience with a bachelors degree, four or more years of experience with a masters degree, or two or more years with a PhD. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education.
• Minimum of 6+ years of progressive engineering experience in the mining, mineral processing, or heavy chemical industry.
• Demonstrated experience in Process Design (mass balances, P&IDs) and Plant Design (equipment layout, piping design).
• Experience supporting the construction phase of industrial projects.
• Proficiency in reading and marking up engineering drawings.
• Strong technical writing skills and the ability to communicate complex engineering concepts to operations staff and contractors.

Work Location & Travel

• This position is based in Albuquerque, New Mexico or the surrounding area. The role is primarily performed from the employee's home or local office, with travel to the project site in Grants, New Mexico approximately 25% of the time (or as business needs require). Relocation to Grants is not required; however, the selected candidate must reside within a commutable distance to Grants, New Mexico.

Preferred Technical Skills

• Knowledge of acid or alkaline in-site recovery, Ion Exchange (IX), or Solvent Extraction (SX) circuits is highly desirable.
• AutoCAD, Plant 3D, or Navisworks (for model reviews).
• Professional Engineer (PE) license or Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a plus.

Regulatory & Safety Background

• Familiarity with NRC (Nuclear Regulatory Commission) regulations regarding source material handling.
• Experience working in OSHA-regulated environments.
• Knowledge of ASME B31.3 (Process Piping) and API standards for tankage.