Project Strategy Associate

Project Strategy Associate

When you join the team at Mesabi Metallics, you become part of a pioneering group advancing sustainable mining practices and driving innovation in the iron ore industry. Our commitment extends to providing a safe work environment, supporting environmental stewardship and generating value for all stakeholders. You will be joining us at a pivotal moment in Minnesota's mining history: Mesabi Metallics' cutting-edge iron ore mining and pelletization project is currently under construction. Mesabi Metallics is also building a 2.5 MTPA Direct Reduction Iron (DRI) and integrated steel plant to strengthen the U.S. low-carbon metallics supply chain. The DRI project is envisioned as a next-generation metallics and steel manufacturing hub aligned with the rapidly expanding U.S. electric arc furnace (EAF) steel sector.

More importantly, you'll be immersed in a positive, supportive work environment that values your contributions and fosters your professional growth. Our culture is shaped by our core values which are sustainability, integrity, inclusivity, innovation, teamwork, determination and performance, and our employees are empowered to make a difference every day. At Mesabi Metallics, you are part of a legacy of excellence, playing a key role in shaping the future of global infrastructure and industry.

Position Summary

We are seeking high-potential MBA graduates from leading US business schools to join our team as Project Strategy Associates, supporting large-scale industrial projects in the steel and power sectors in the United States. This role will focus on strategic planning and execution across the full EPC lifecycle, starting from feasibility studies and project planning through engineering, procurement, construction, commissioning, and project monitoring. The position will work closely with senior leadership, project management teams, engineering partners, and external stakeholders to ensure efficient project execution, cost optimization, and strategic alignment. The role provides strong exposure to large-scale infrastructure development including Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) facilities, integrated steel plants, and power generation assets.

Job Responsibilities

• Support strategic planning and evaluation of large-scale industrial projects across steel and power sectors.
• Contribute to feasibility studies, techno economic assessments, and business case development for new projects.
• Assist leadership in project strategy, capital allocation, and long-term infrastructure planning.
• Work closely with project management and engineering teams during the EPC phase (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction).
• Monitor project progress across engineering design, procurement activities, construction schedules, and commissioning milestones.
• Analyze project performance metrics including cost, schedule, risk, and operational readiness.
• Support development of project dashboards, reporting systems, and decision-support analytics.
• Identify process improvement opportunities to enhance project efficiency and reduce execution risks.
• Conduct industry benchmarking, market analysis, and technology assessments related to steel manufacturing and power generation.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including engineering, finance, procurement, operations, and external EPC contractors.
• Support initiatives related to digital transformation, sustainability, and operational optimization in industrial projects.

Skills and Qualifications

• MBA from a top tier US business school.
• Candidates with an undergraduate degree in Engineering followed by an MBA will be strongly preferred.
• Previous experience in management consulting, strategy consulting, or operations consulting is strongly preferred.
• Experience working on industrial, infrastructure, energy, metals, mining, or large capital projects will be an advantage.
• Exposure to project strategy, capital project management, or operational transformation initiatives.
• Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving capabilities.
• Ability to work in complex, cross-functional industrial project environments.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.

Physical Requirements

• None

Salary Range

• $90,000 - $100,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.

Benefits

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage with an HSA option.
• Retirement Plan: 401(k) with 6% company match.
• Lincoln STD, LTD, & Life Insurance: Coverage provided by Mesabi Metallics.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): 0-5 Years: 120 hours per year. 5-10 Years: 160 hours per year. 10+ Years: 200 hours per year. Plus 9 paid holidays.

Mesabi Metallics Company LLC is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute to our success.