Demo

Hydromet Leach Operator II

Freeport-McMoRan
Safford, AZ Intern
POSTED ON 7/23/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 8/22/2026
At Freeport-McMoRan, we are committed to providing an employment package that recognizes excellence, encourages safe production and a culture supported by our core values. Here, you’ll find a collaborative environment where safety is a top priority, all opinions are valued, and people are empowered to grow in their career. Apply Today!    

Where You Will Work 

In operation since 2007, Safford operations is a zero-discharge facility and one of the most sustainable mines in the United States. The operation’s commitment to utilizing advanced technologies and sustainable practices strongly emphasizes safety and environmental stewardship. Located in southeastern Arizona, close to more than 4 million acres of national forest, employees and their families can connect with the great outdoors while fishing, rafting, hiking and more. Several educational institutions also are nearby, including a Northern Arizona University satellite campus, Eastern Arizona College, and the Gila Institute for Technology.  

What You Will Do

Skilled employees in a process environment who operate, and may perform minor maintenance on, material handling systems, such as conveyors, transfer chutes, flow systems, and flotation/grind mills. Employees will work under minimal supervision in environments where the primary objective is safe production.

  • Perform area housekeeping to include tasks such as shoveling, using fire hose, and digging
  • Operation/control of processing equipment per operating guidelines
  • Operation of mobile equipment
  • Equipment monitoring via computer and data entry via computer
  • Identify, report, and assist with machinery maintenance needs
  • Perform other tasks as assigned

What You Will Bring

  • At least two (2) years of experience in trade
  • Must have completed academic and practical competencies required (this includes Line of Progression requirements for internal employees where LOP Exists) and have experience demonstrating the required aptitude. The selected candidate shall demonstrate the ability to apply knowledge and skills while also passing a written assessment where required. This exam is based on skills/abilities and/or academic knowledge; as well as safety.
  • Experience with material handling equipment
  • Knowledge of pipe fusing, sumps, pumps, drip systems, dump piping and layout for a stockpile; understanding of district flows
  • Knowledge of ISO 9001 and 14001 Policies
  • Knowledge of safety programs and initiatives
  • Autonomy - the ability to work without close supervision while completing tasks up to quality standards
  • Initiative - the ability to take appropriate action without specifically being told
  • Computer literacy - the ability to effectively use a computer to input, access, or modify information; knowledge of Microsoft applications
  • Judgment/Decision-Making - the ability to anticipate and evaluate the consequences of various courses of action and take these considerations into account when making decisions
  • Training - Coaching and training responsibilities would include training new operators that come into the department
  • Multi-Tasking - shifting back and forth between multiple activities while still maintaining effectiveness

Preferred

  • High School diploma or GED
  • Experienced at proficiently operating equipment, pipe fusing, sumps, pumps, drip Systems, and dump piping layout for a stockpile
  • Understanding of district flows

Criteria/Conditions

  • Ability to understand and apply verbal and written work and safety-related instructions and procedures given in English
  • Ability to communicate in English with respect to job assignments, job procedures, and applicable safety standards
  • Must be able to work in a potentially stressful environment
  • Work is performed in a mine or manufacturing plant setting, which may include exposure to extremes in temperature and humidity, moving mechanical parts, risk of electrical shock, toxic chemicals, explosives, fumes or airborne particles
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to stand, sit, demonstrate manual dexterity, climb stairs and ladders, and work on elevated platforms
  • Occasionally may be required to lift up to fifty (50) pounds during the course of the work day
  • May be required to work rotating shifts in a 24/7/365 operation
  • Personal protective equipment is required when performing work in a mine, outdoor, manufacturing or plant environment, including hard hat, hearing protection, safety glasses, safety footwear, and as needed, respirator, rubber steel-toe boots, protective clothing, gloves and any other protective equipment as required
  • Freeport-McMoRan promotes a drug/alcohol free work environment through the use of mandatory pre-employment drug testing and on-going random drug testing as per applicable State Laws

What We Offer You

The estimated pay range for this role is currently $27.00 - $36.00 hour. This range reflects base salary only and does not include bonus payments, benefits or retirement contributions. Actual base pay is determined by experience, qualifications, skills and other job-related factors. This role is eligible for additional discretionary and incentive payment considerations based on company and individual performance. More details will be shared during the hiring process.  Click here to view a sample of Total Rewards Estimate for this role.  

  • Affordable medical, dental and vision benefits  
  • Company-paid life and disability insurance  
  • 401(k) plan with employer contribution/match  
  • Paid time off, paid sick time, holiday pay, parental leave  
  • Tuition assistance  
  • Employee Assistance Program  
  • Discounted insurance plans for pet, auto, home and vehicle  
  • Internal progression opportunities  
  • Learn more about our competitive and comprehensive benefits package!  

   What We Require   

  • Candidates may be required to pass a medical exam.  
  • Candidates must pass all required training and/or testing.  
  • Employees may be required to work a non-standard schedule, which may include shift work (other than day shift) at a 24/7, 365-day operation.  
  • Freeport-McMoRan promotes a drug/alcohol-free work environment using mandatory pre-employment drug testing and on-going drug and alcohol testing, as allowed by applicable laws.  

Equal Opportunity Employer 

Please be advised that Freeport-McMoRan will never request payment for job-related expenses from applicants. If you receive any suspicious emails, please disregard them, and report the incident to HRSC@fmi.com .

Salary : $27 - $36

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