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Position Summary:
The Mining and Minerals Engineering Department at Virginia Tech is seeking applicants for a pilot plant technician/operator to support research and development activities currently being conducted by the Center for Advanced Separation Technologies. Specific duties of this position include:
1. Operate pilot-scale particulate processing operations, including crushers, grinding mills, screens, cyclones, flotation columns, X-ray sorters, solvent based separations, and others;
2. Perform general fabrication activities including cutting/welding/machining of various materials such as metals and plastics under the supervision of an assigned project manager;
3. Perform general construction activities related to the assembly of fabricated and purchased parts under the supervision of an assigned project manager;
4. Perform connections for electrical, mechanical and plumbing services under the direction of an assigned project manager;
5. Assist shop personnel in cleanup and maintenance activities as required to maintain a safe, healthy and productive work site;
6. Travel to remote sites for extended periods (generally up to one to two weeks per month) to perform on-site testing.

Required Qualifications:
• Proven hands-on experience in pilot plant or industrial processing operations, with appropriate certifications achieved during prior roles;
• Demonstrated experience with plumbing, welding, and/or electrical service work;
• Demonstrated understanding of complex design and operation of lab and pilot-scale units;
• Knowledge of basic engineering principles and design;
• The ability to work well with faculty, students and external vendors and contractors.

Preferred Qualifications:
• Educational diploma from trade or vocational school or an equivalent level of training and experience (associate degree preferred);
• Prior work experience with mining/process engineering equipment;
• Prior work experience with the mining & minerals industry;
• Prior work experience with solvent-based processes and/or gas-phase processes, including evaporators, condensers, etc;
• Up-to-date MSHA part 48 training certification;
• Prior work experience in laboratory and pilot-plant testing programs.



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