Junior Engineer Research & Development (Mt Holland)

About Us

Covalent Lithium is a fully integrated lithium mining and refining operation in Western Australia. As a joint venture between Wesfarmers and SQM (Sociedad Química y Minera de Chile), we combine global lithium expertise with strong Australian operational capability across our Mt Holland Mine and Concentrator and Kwinana Refinery.

Following a successful ramp-up, Mt Holland is now running at full production- an achievement driven by the capability, commitment and collaboration of our people. With an approved expansion set to double spodumene concentrate production, we’re entering an exciting new phase of growth and unlocking the full potential of our world-class Earl Grey lithium deposit.

Guided by our values of Purpose, Care, Accountability and Collaboration, we’re building a safe, inclusive and high-performing workplace where people can make an impact and grow their careers. Whether you’re taking the next step in your career or bringing your experience to a growing business, Covalent offers the opportunity to play a meaningful role in an operation spanning the entire lithium value chain- from mine to refinery.

We support, empower and reward our people with a range of benefits:

•    Competitive remuneration and annual incentive opportunities for eligible employees 
•    Access to discounts, recognition and rewards through our LiFT program 
•    Flexible work arrangements where suitable 
•    Dedicated wellbeing programs, Employee Assistance Program and discounted health insurance 
•    Equal access to paid parental leave, financial support for growing families & return-to-work support
•    Salary sacrifice options, including superannuation and novated leasing 
•    Discounted FIFO parking with Perth Airport

The Role

The main purpose of the position is to provide support to the R&D team in all aspects relating to Covalent’s Research & Development (R&D) program including the planning, analysis and execution of internally conducted bench, pilot and industrial test campaigns.
 

This is a full-time, fixed term position for 24 months, on a 4:3 (day shift) FIFO roster to our Mt Holland site.

Key Responsibilities

•    Provide support to the R&D team in all aspects relating to Covalent’s R&D program including the planning, analysis and execution of internally conducted bench, pilot and industrial test campaigns.
•    Design and oversee test work scopes related to the concentrator (and at times, refinery) to ensure objectives are met and information acquired is suitable for purpose. 
•    Oversee external test work programs to determine design parameters and substantiate process design.
•    Analyse R&D samples in the laboratories in accordance with Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
•    Prepare clear SOPs and ensure they are maintained. 
•    Liaise with site teams (E.g. Laboratory, Metallurgy, Geology, Operations) to effectively deliver quality project work in required timeframes.
•    Communicate and report on progress of trials, equipment & consumables.
•    Interpret, process and present project results to stakeholders.
•    Work to the laboratories’ standards of safety and housekeeping. 
•    Plan, purchase and maintain equipment and consumables.
•    Plant sampling and dispatch to external laboratories and vendors. 
•    Perform and validate mass balances in collaboration with Process Engineers/Metallurgists.
•    Plan and implement laboratory operations for projects and test work programs.
•    Research relevant studies being carried out in Australia and overseas.
•    Active participation in the establishment of a health and safety culture
•    Ensure compliance with budget and expenditure protocols and procedures.
 

Role Requirements

•    1 year experience in metallurgical or chemical laboratories, or management of test programs desired
•    Tertiary qualifications in Chemical/Process/Metallurgical/Minerals Processing Engineering or related discipline
•    Good report writing skills 
•    Ability to work in remote and/or arid environmental conditions
•    Knowledge of Health and Safety requirements in laboratories and mine site environments
•    Understanding of general laboratory practices

Recent graduates wanting to start a career in the lithium industry are encouraged to apply, as training will be provided

A competitive remuneration package commensurate with the role, candidate experience, skills and qualifications will be offered.

Our team members are encouraged to bring their whole selves to work. Candidates from all backgrounds and ages are encouraged to apply, including First Nations People, those who identify as LGBTIQ+, people with disabilities and those with neurodiverse, intersectional, or multiple diverse characteristics.

Covalent Lithium is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, with a focus on our employees. We recognise skills, expertise, commitment and living our values of Purpose, Care, Accountability and Collaboration. Our goal is to attract, develop, motivate, reward, and retain the best people in the industry.