Metallurgical Engineer Intern

Description

Summary/Objective

Milford Mining Company is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented college student for a summer internship in Metallurgical Engineering. As an intern in our Metallurgical Engineering department, you will gain hands-on experience in a copper mining and processing environment that includes both grinding/milling, and acid leach/SX/EW and operations.

This internship is designed to provide exposure to plant operations, metallurgical test work, process optimization, and data analysis - giving you a solid foundation for a future career in extractive metallurgy or mineral processing.

What You’ll Gain

• Real-world experience in copper production and process engineering
• Exposure to both flotation and hydrometallurgical plant operations
• Hands-on training in metallurgical sampling, testing, and data interpretation
• Mentorship from experienced metallurgists and plant leadership
• Opportunities to contribute to actual site improvement initiatives

This internship is an excellent opportunity for students seeking to apply their academic knowledge in a practical setting and learn from experienced professionals in the copper mining industry. 

Essential Functions:

• Assist with plant sampling, metallurgical accounting, and performance tracking
• Support test work related to grinding, flotation, leaching, or solvent extraction
• Conduct lab-scale metallurgical tests under the guidance of engineering staff
• Analyze process data to support continuous improvement efforts
• Assist in troubleshooting operational challenges and identifying efficiency gains
• Document procedures, test results, and observations in technical reports
• Work closely with metallurgists, process operators, and lab personnel

Skills & Competencies 

• Knowledge of and enthusiasm for metallurgical/chemical engineering and/or mineral processing
• Passion for learning, and a willingness to think outside the box.
• Be a highly motivated self-starter
• Ability to work as part of a team with people from both within and outside the lab. 
• Be able to communicate effectively, and possess time-management and organizational skills
• Understanding of the importance of operational discipline and following instructions

Compensation

Depends on experience and skill set of the individual 

Work Environment

• The work is performed in plant, laboratory, and office settings, containing instrumentation, machines, chemicals, hoods, equipment, instruments, pumps and motors.
• The work requires walking on uneven ground and ascending/descending stairs on a regular basis
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to airborne particles, dust, fumes, acids, and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Physical Demands

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms. This position is very active and requires standing, walking, bending, kneeling, stooping, and crouching. 
• Exerting 20 to 50 lbs. of force occasionally and/or 10 to 25 lbs. of force frequently and/or up to 10 lbs. of force constantly; must be able to lift up to 50 pounds on occasion. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus. 
• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee and/or intern to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Position Type and Expected Hours of Work

The processing facility operates seven days per week, 24 hours per day, and internship will take place during daytime hours. Actual work schedule to be determined by business need and intern work availability. 

Travel
Travel between buildings on the property will be required at times. 

Requirements

 Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s degree program in Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or related discipline
• Completion of introductory coursework in mineral processing or extractive metallurgy preferred
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel; experience with data analysis software is a plus
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• Willingness to work in a plant setting with exposure to outdoor and industrial environments
• Must be able to wear required PPE and follow all site safety protocols