Pilot Plant Technician

ABOUT MARIANA MINERALS Mariana Minerals is a software-first, vertically integrated minerals company on a mission to supply the critical minerals powering modern energy, AI, and defense technologies. We’re reimagining the minerals supply chain by combining deep industry expertise with advanced software, automation, and data-driven decision-making. ROLE OVERVIEW Mariana Minerals is looking for a highly motivated technician to join our San Francisco Pilot Plant team. You will support the design, deployment, and operation of first-of-its-kind refining processes for critical minerals, while also supporting development of software for automated plant optimization. This position is highly hands-on and will play a critical role in bridging R&D and Operations, ensuring processes are robust, safe, cost-effective, and suitable for commercial production.   WHAT YOU’LL DO - Assist engineers and other technicians to operate and monitor copper extraction chemical processes - Safely handle chemicals, raw materials, and waste streams in compliance with SOPs and regulations - Support sampling, quality checks, and basic laboratory measurements - Assist with design, install, startup, and commissioning of new equipment and processes - Take ownership of plant cleanliness and organization, ensuring work areas, tools, and equipment are well-maintained and ready for operations - Perform routine maintenance, inspections, and basic mechanical repairs; document findings & actions in a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) - Create and maintain procedures, experimental records, shift reports, and other critical operations documents   WHAT YOU’LL BRING - Associate degree, technical certificate, or equivalent experience in chemical technology, process technology, industrial operations, or a related field - 3+ years of experience operating pilot plant or commercial scale industrial equipment in the minerals processing, chemicals, specialty materials, oil & gas, biotech, or similar industry - Prior exposure to core plant safety work processes such as Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), hot work permitting, confined space entry, and safe work permitting systems - Experience using human–machine interfaces (HMIs) and plant software systems to monitor, control, and adjust process operation - Experience with hands-on equipment installation, modification, and troubleshooting - Basic knowledge of inorganic chemistry, pH, and reaction stoichiometry a plus - Experience using engineering documents such as PFDs, control narratives, or P&IDs is a plus - Climb stairs, stand for extended periods of time, and safely lift up to 50 lbs OUR CULTURE IS BUILT ON THREE PRINCIPLES: Extreme Ownership – We take full responsibility for outcomes, relentlessly driving toward solutions. Engineer Out Requirements, then Automate – We simplify, optimize, and then automate for scale. Share Your Legos – We collaborate openly, share knowledge, and empower each other to build bigger, better solutions. Join us as we build the future of responsible mineral sourcing and supply.