Solvent Extraction Operations Trainer
Talascend is currently seeking a Solvent Extraction Operations Trainer for a direct hire opportunity with our client in Mountain Pass, California.
Overview
The Solvent Extraction (SX) Operations Trainer is responsible for developing and delivering comprehensive, process-driven training programs for SX operations personnel. The role involves establishing standardized training curricula, validating operator competency, and supporting commissioning and optimization of SX circuits. The trainer serves as a subject matter expert (SME) in solvent extraction processes, ensuring operators demonstrate proficiency in process fundamentals, control strategies, troubleshooting, and safe operating practices.
Responsibilities
- Develop, implement, and maintain standardized training programs specific to solvent extraction unit operations, including extraction, scrubbing, stripping, and organic handling systems.
- Create and manage detailed operator Line of Progression (LOP) frameworks, including competency assessments, qualification standards, and progression criteria within the Learning Management System (LMS).
- Review, and audit Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), ensuring technical accuracy, consistency, and alignment with current plant conditions and best practices.
- Deliver both classroom and field-based training covering SX chemistry, phase separation dynamics, reagent management, and process control philosophies.
- Interpret and train personnel on Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) and Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) specific to SX circuits.
- Support commissioning activities, including operator readiness, procedure validation, and training for new or modified systems.
- Conduct internal process audits and training effectiveness evaluations; provide data-driven recommendations for improvement.
- Lead or support root cause analysis and troubleshooting efforts related to SX performance issues, including phase disengagement, crud formation, and organic losses.
- Develop and maintain training matrices to ensure workforce competency across all SX process areas.
- Collaborate with site leadership, superintendents, and technical teams to ensure training aligns with production targets, safety standards, and operational priorities.
- Ensure compliance with MSHA, Cal-OSHA, and internal safety standards through structured training and verification.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives, including 5S, process optimization, and operational excellence programs.
- Participate in document control, policy deployment, and digital training platform management (e.g., LMS, Convergence Training).
- Promote a strong safety culture, including participation in Process Hazard Analyses (PHA), Pre-Startup Safety Reviews (PSSR), and near-miss reporting.
Qualifications
- Minimum of 4+ years of experience in solvent extraction operations, hydrometallurgical processing, or a related technical field.
- Demonstrated experience in training, mentoring, or technical leadership within a processing or chemical plant environment.
- Strong working knowledge of solvent extraction principles, including mass transfer, phase equilibrium, and reagent chemistry.
- Proficiency in interpreting and utilizing PFDs and P&IDs.
- Working knowledge of regulatory requirements, including MSHA and Cal OSHA standards.
- Experience with Learning Management Systems (LMS) and digital training platforms.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint).
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Chemistry, or related discipline.
- Experience in rare earth processing or similar hydrometallurgical operations.
- Prior involvement in plant commissioning or major process start-ups.
We thank all applicants for their interest. However, only those qualified individuals who closely meet the qualifications of the position will be contacted. The details of the position are only a summary, other duties may be assigned as necessary.
Drug Screen may be required.
We will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history pursuant to Federal, State and Local law, including the California Fair Chance Act, the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance and the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance. You do not need to disclose your criminal history or participate in a background check until a conditional job offer is made to you. After making a conditional offer and running a background check, if Talascend is concerned about conviction that is directly related to the job, you will be given the chance to explain the circumstances surrounding the conviction, provide mitigating evidence, or challenge the accuracy of the background report. Applicants with criminal histories are encouraged to apply. To find out more visit California Fair Chance Act.
Pay range is not a guarantee of compensation or salary, as final offer amount may vary based on factors including but not limited to experience and geographic location. Talascend also offers a variety of benefits including: health and disability insurance, 401(k), EAP, paid time off, and company-paid holidays. The specific programs and options available to an employee may vary depending on date of hire, plan requirements, schedule type, and client work site mandates.
Talascend is an Equal Opportunity Employer that recruits and hires qualified candidates without regard to race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, disability, or veteran status.