Job Overview & Organization Mission

Optimize hydrometallurgical extraction flowsheet designs and refinery yield for nickel, copper, and future battery minerals.

BHP is looking for an experienced Principal Metallurgical Process Engineer to join the technical center of excellence in Perth. You will spearhead hydrometallurgical plant optimizations, autoclave pressure oxidation studies, and SX-EW circuit performance across our Western Australian nickel and copper refining assets.

As a key member of the team at BHP 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 process: Lead process modeling and mass-energy balance simulations using SysCAD and Metsim.
• Drive flow-sheet: Drive flow-sheet improvements for high-pressure acid leaching (HPAL) and solvent extraction circuits.
• Collaborate with: Collaborate with plant metallurgists to resolve complex mineralogical recovery bottlenecks.
• Direct pilot-plant: Direct pilot-plant metallurgical testing and feasibility studies for greenfield expansion projects.
• Author technical: Author technical process descriptions and Capex/Opex tradeoff evaluations for executive sanction.

Required Qualifications, Licenses & Experience

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

• Mandatory Qualification: Bachelor of Chemical or Metallurgical Engineering & AusIMM Member.
• Relevant Experience: Minimum 5+ Years of verified industry experience in Australia or recognized overseas equivalence.
• Bachelor’s degree in Metallurgical or Chemical Engineering.
• 10+ years experience in mineral processing with strong focus on hydrometallurgical extraction.
• Professional membership with AusIMM or Engineers Australia.
• Demonstrated experience in plant commissioning and brownfield process debottlenecking.

Core Competencies & Key Technical Proficiencies

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

Salary, Compensation & Employee Benefits

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

• Competitive Remuneration: AU$195,000 – AU$245,000 per year + standard Australian Superannuation (11.5%).
• Top-tier compensation $195,000 – $245,000 + 11.5% super + BHP performance share plan.
• Flexible Perth CBD office role with hybrid working and occasional site visits.
• World-class parental leave (18 weeks paid) and healthcare benefits.
• 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: BHP

BHP is a world-leading resources company extracting essential minerals and metals powering global decarbonization and economic development.

BHP 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 BHP careers gateway.