Mechanical Engineer

My client is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join their Maintenance team. In this role, you will be responsible for supporting the buildout, commissioning, and operation of a new sulfuric acid and lithium processing plant at Thacker Pass. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a mission driven organization committed to innovation, sustainability, and leadership in the clean energy sector. The role is based at the Thacker Pass site located near Orovada, NV, and reports to the Maintenance Manager. 

Key Responsibilities
• Champion process and mechanical safety by ensuring full compliance with MSHA, OSHA and ASME standards; actively participate in process Hazard Analysis (PHA), Management of Change (MOC) and Pre-Startup Safety Reviews (PSSR) to identify, mitigate and eliminate process related hazards. Fosters a culture where safe work practices and personal accountability are non-negotiable.
• Support commissioning, start-up, and pre-commissioning activities for the sulfuric acid and lithium processing facilities
• Serve as the site Mechanical Engineering Subject Matter Expert (SME) to support day to-day operations and maintenance activities
• Troubleshoot and resolve equipment performance issues using data from Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) and the Process Data Historian
• Specify, recommend, and procure replacement or alternate equipment for plant operations
• Maintain and update plant technical drawings.
• Manage capital and sustaining projects from concept through design, procurement, andbstart-up, including change management
• Oversee contractor work during maintenance and project execution
• Collaborate with production, QA, and management teams to implement and optimize processes
• Ensure safety, environmental, and regulatory compliance across all engineering activities
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement, safety, and operational excellence
• Document lessons learned and maintain accurate records of process modifications
• Build and maintain trusted relationships across all teams while championing a culture that reflects and supports our Purpose, Vision, and Values

Required Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, or related field
• 3–10 years of engineering experience in a mining or chemical processing facility
• Strong understanding of engineering principles and unit operations
• Experience with CAD and updating drawings with use of Hexagon SmartPlant P&ID preferred
• Experience with 3D Plant layout modeling preferred
• Familiarity with CMMS systems and Data Historians
• Familiarity with OSHA PSM or MSHA standards preferred
• Demonstrated commitment to safety, teamwork, and environmental responsibility
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, evolving environment
• Be a self-starter: highly motivated, able to work independently, with high energy
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work cross-functionally
• Ability to critically challenge assumptions, “think outside the box”, and deliver creative solutions
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office 365 applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, Project, Teams, etc.)

With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Chemicals, Construction & Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining and Manufacturing sectors worldwide. With more than 80 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed. We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market-leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients.