Job Overview & Organization Mission

Optimize downstream spodumene calcination, acid roasting, and crystallization to produce battery-grade lithium chemicals.

Pilbara Minerals is seeking a Lead Lithium Chemical Process Engineer based in West Perth. You will guide process design, flow-sheet optimization, and mid-stream chemical conversion trials converting spodumene concentrate into high-purity lithium salts for the global electric vehicle supply chain.

As a key member of the team at Pilbara Minerals in Perth, WA, you will play a central role in driving excellence, upholding top-tier Australian industry standards, and contributing directly to the strategic milestones of one of the nation’s premier employers.

Key Duties & Core Responsibilities

In this critical role, your operational duties and key performance responsibilities will encompass:

• Lead mass-energy: Lead mass-energy balance modeling and thermodynamic calculations for lithium extraction.
• Oversee operational: Oversee operational trials for rotary calciner kiln operations and sulphation roasting.
• Evaluate crystallization: Evaluate crystallization circuits, ion exchange purification, and solid-liquid filtration systems.
• Collaborate with: Collaborate with international joint venture partners on downstream refinery construction.
• Establish product: Establish product quality standards meeting cathode manufacturer battery specifications.

Required Qualifications, Licenses & Experience

To be successful in this position at Pilbara Minerals, candidates are expected to satisfy the following essential selection criteria:

• Mandatory Qualification: Bachelor of Chemical Engineering & AusIMM Member.
• Relevant Experience: Minimum 5+ Years of verified industry experience in Australia or recognized overseas equivalence.
• Bachelor of Chemical Engineering (Honours).
• 7+ years experience in chemical manufacturing, hydrometallurgical processing, or lithium refining.
• In-depth knowledge of pyrometallurgy, precipitation, and crystallization unit operations.
• Excellent project management and stakeholder engagement skills.

Core Competencies & Key Technical Proficiencies

The successful applicant will possess demonstrated capabilities across the following domain skill sets:

Salary, Compensation & Employee Benefits

At Pilbara Minerals, we understand that our people drive our achievements. An outstanding remuneration and wellbeing package is provided in line with Australian benchmarks:

• Competitive Remuneration: AU$175,000 – AU$220,000 per year + standard Australian Superannuation (11.5%).
• Remuneration $175,000 – $220,000 + super + equity incentives.
• Direct involvement in Australia’s fastest-growing critical minerals company.
• Modern West Perth office with strong flexible working culture.
• Leave Entitlements: 4 weeks annual leave (with 17.5% annual leave loading where applicable) plus 10 days paid personal/carer’s leave.
• Flexible Work: Progressive work-life balance options with supportive corporate culture and leadership development pathways.

About the Employer: Pilbara Minerals

Pilbara Minerals is an ASX-listed pure-play lithium company operating the Pilgangoora hard-rock spodumene asset in WA.

Pilbara Minerals is deeply committed to building diverse, equitable, and culturally inclusive work environments. We proudly celebrate diversity and welcome applications from all qualified individuals including First Nations Australians, people with disabilities, and candidates from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Application Process & Next Steps

Applications for this position are currently open and being reviewed on a rolling basis. Suitable candidates are encouraged to apply as early as possible before the published closing date.

Please prepare an updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a tailored Cover Letter highlighting your relevant experience against the key selection criteria outlined above.

To proceed with your application, click the Apply on Employer Site button to access the official Pilbara Minerals careers gateway.