Operations Engineer - U.S. Silica : Job Details

U.S. Silica Holdings Inc. is a global performance materials company and is a member of the Russell 2000. The company is a leading producer of commercial silica used in the oil and gas industry and in a wide range of industrial applications. Over its 123-year history, U.S. Silica has developed core competencies in mining, processing, logistics and materials science that enable it to produce and cost-effectively deliver more than 600 diversified products to customers across our end markets.U.S. Silica's wholly-owned subsidiaries include EP Minerals and SandBox Logistics. EP Minerals is an industry leader in the production of products derived from diatomaceous earth, perlite, engineered clays and non-activated clays. SandBox Logistics is a state-of-the-art leader in proppant storage, handling and well-site delivery, and is dedicated to making proppant logistics cleaner, safer and more efficient. The company has 27 operating mines and processing facilities and two additional exploration stage properties across the United States and is headquartered in Katy, Texas.The Process Engineer, is responsible for designing, implementing, and optimizing processes related to the extraction, processing, and refining of sand materials. The primary goal of the position is to improve efficiency, productivity, and safety within our operations while ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. This position reports to the Plant Manager and will collaborate daily with the Operations and Production Managers.Essential Job Functions:* Process Design and Optimization: Design, develop, and optimize sand mining processes, including extraction, screening, washing, and sorting, to maximize productivity and minimize environmental impact.* Equipment Selection and Maintenance: Evaluate, select, and oversee the installation and maintenance of equipment and machinery used in sand mining operations, ensuring optimal performance and uptime.* Quality Control: Implement quality control measures to ensure that sand products meet required specifications and standards, conducting regular testing and analysis as necessary.* Environmental Compliance: Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and permits governing sand mining operations, implementing measures to minimize environmental impact and mitigate risks.* Safety Management: Develop and implement safety protocols and procedures to ensure a safe working environment for all personnel involved in sand mining operations.* Data Analysis and Reporting: Collect and analyze data on process performance, productivity, and efficiency, preparing regular reports and recommendations for improvement.* Collaboration and Communication: Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including geologists, environmental scientists, and regulatory authorities, to coordinate activities and ensure alignment with project objectives.* Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities for process improvement and cost optimization, implementing innovative solutions to enhance operational efficiency and competitiveness.Required Education, Experience, and Skills:* Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering, or related field. Advanced degree preferred.* Minimum 2 years' experience in process engineering within the mining or aggregates industry, with specific experience in sand mining highly desirable.* Strong understanding of mining and mineral processing principles, equipment, and techniques.* Familiarity with environmental regulations and permitting processes related to mining operations.* Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.* Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across teams and stakeholders.* Commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and continuous improvement.U.S. Silica is an equal opportunity employer for all without regard to race, gender, color, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. U.S. Silica is a smoke- and drug-free workplace. The above description is intended to capture the essential functions of the job, nature and level of work as of the preparation date. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties that may be required of the position. This job description may be modified at any time with or without notice.