Principal Leaching Development | BHP Chile
Chile
About BHP Chile
At BHP Chile, our corporate office in Santiago is the strategic heart of our operations in the country. From here, we lead projects that drive responsible mining and innovation, connecting local impact with BHP’s global vision. We are part of a company dedicated to natural resources, present in more than 90 locations worldwide, committed to creating a more sustainable future.
Why BHP Chile?
Here, you’ll have the opportunity to grow in an organization that values diversity, fosters professional development, and invests in technologies that transform the mining industry. At BHP Chile, you can make a real impact on the community and the environment while building your career in a company recognized for its inclusive culture and commitment to the future.
About the Role
As Principal Leaching Development, you will play a critical role in advancing leaching technology across internal projects and external collaborations. You will be accountable for the technical development, support, and quality control of leaching programs, ensuring they are delivered safely, efficiently, and with strong scientific rigor.
This role is central to the success of leaching technology development, requiring deep technical expertise, a strong research mindset, and the ability to provide sound technical recommendations that influence decision‑making. You will embed a continuous improvement culture aligned with BOS principles, contribute to sustainable metallurgical solutions, and ensure the highest standards of Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) are achieved in all activities.
Main Responsibilities
- Lead the technical development, support, and quality control of leaching technologies for internal projects and external collaborations.
- Ensure full compliance and achievement of Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) standards across all leaching development activities.
- Promote and embed a culture of continuous improvement based on BOS principles.
- Provide expert technical advice and recommendations on the success of leaching technology development programs.
- Design, evaluate, and optimise metallurgical leaching tests, including proposing leaching process flowsheets and defining technical controls.
- Identify, analyse, and optimise critical drivers for leaching performance through systematic testing and data analysis.
- Deliver technical support and guidance to laboratory, pilot plant, and operational activities.
- Critically review, manage, and interpret metallurgical data generated from test work and operational results.
- Manage internal stakeholders to ensure clear alignment of responsibilities and accountabilities across leaching development initiatives.
- Engage and manage external stakeholders, including consultants and universities, ensuring data integrity throughout technology development and evaluation.
- Manage patents and intellectual property matters related to leaching technology development.
About You
- Degree in Metallurgical, Chemical, or Biotechnology Engineering.Master’s degree or PhD in Science or a related discipline.
- At least 8 years of experience in research, design, or operations within minerals processing.
- Advanced technical knowledge and hands‑on experience in leaching and processing applications.
- Strong experience in the design and execution of metallurgical leaching test programs.
- Proven capability in metallurgical and scientific data management, interpretation, and reporting.
- Demonstrated experimental mindset with a structured, systematic approach to problem‑solving.
- Solid experience in fundamental research and technology development.
- Intermediate English proficiency.
Why You’ll Love Working Here
At BHP Chile, we understand that to give your best, you need to feel your best. That’s why our benefits are designed to support you at every stage, caring for your health, driving your development, and promoting a real balance between your personal and professional life.
- Professional Development: Continuous learning and real growth opportunities.
- Compensation: Fair and competitive, reflecting your role, skills, and achievements.
- Inclusive Culture: We promote a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and free to express their authentic identity.
- Recognition: We reward your achievements through our global recognition program Big Thanks | Muchas Gracias.
And much more!
About Our Process
At BHP, we hire people who align with our values and meet the role requirements. As part of the process, we may review compliance with minimum requirements.
If you already work at BHP, apply through the internal portal using your corporate email.
Why Not You?
With operations worldwide, BHP offers limitless opportunities. From competitive benefits to the chance to work in different countries, here you can design your career your way. If you’re looking for a place where your work has purpose and your growth is part of the journey, this could be your next step.
Apply today and be part of mining’s transformation!
We Support a Diverse Workforce
At BHP, we adhere to Inclusion Law 21.015.
We know diversity makes us stronger. That’s why we focus on creating a more diverse workforce that represents the communities where we operate and live, ensuring a workplace where everyone is included and treated with respect.
We are committed to a fair, equitable, and accessible selection process for all. If you have any type of disability, please write to inclusion@bhp.com so we can adjust our selection process and provide the necessary support.