Job Description

The R&D Scientist conducts projects and research to support the safe, reliable, efficient, and cost-effective recovery of minerals from geothermal brine with a focus on lithium through the implementation of human performance improvement tools, scientific practices, and scientific principles. The position holder applies technical expertise to complex problems and develops process enhancements and solutions. The position holder collaborates with engineers to maintain design efficiencies, engineering and special projects relating to operations, research, and development. The position holder works closely with the senior research and development director to advance lithium and mineral recovery and production.

Review project design, process, and standard operating and test procedures for compliance with scientific principles, company standards, customer contract requirements and applicable codes and specifications. Coordinate activities concerned with technical developments, and resolution of engineering design and test problems.

Recommend and implement lab and pilot scale equipment performance testing related to the reliability, operability and efficiency of the specific equipment and its relationship to plant operations.

Respond to operating needs and provides services to operations and engineering as required. Maintain close contact with these groups to evaluate plant relevant equipment performance, recommend design/specification improvements, trend project performance, technology upgrades and keep up to date with the technologies utilized in the processes and research those needed for special projects.

Perform additional responsibilities, including special projects, as requested, or assigned.

Bachelor’s or master’s degree in engineering, technical or business-related field with emphasis on chemical engineering.

PhD degree preferred.

Three years of research or engineering experience desired, preferably in the mining or lithium recovery industry.

Must possess effective interpersonal skills, leadership abilities and relationship-building skills.

Must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions.

Must demonstrate effective analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

Must be able to make clear and precise decisions in critical situations.

Must have ability to prioritize and handle multiple projects and issues concurrently.

Must have the ability to use technical skills to focus ideas onto substantial projects.

Must show a willingness to learn, as well as to clearly communicate complex ideas and concepts to those with less technical background.

A valid California driver’s license is required.

Work Environment Characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job the employee may work near moving machinery and maybe exposed to fumes and airborne particles.

Occasionally the employee is exposed to toxic or caustic chemicals, as well as loud areas and hot piping.

During the course of performing assigned duties the employee may be required to work with or be exposed to hazardous substances and occupational hazards.

The company will provide the employee with initial training on all known hazardous substances and occupational hazards prior to allowing the employee to perform a particular duty unsupervised.

Annual refresher training will also be provided on all known hazards and new hazards as they are identified.

BHE Renewables delivers sustainable energy solutions for customers and communities. We own, operate and develop wind, solar, geothermal, hydroelectric and natural gas projects in 11 U.S. states. The power generated is sold into energy markets or directly to customers through long-term purchase agreements.

Headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, BHE Renewables is an innovative and growing company with new offices in Phoenix and San Diego. Our 50/50 joint venture with Occidental Petroleum has led to a demonstration project showing how TerraLithium technology is used to extract lithium from the brine presently flowing through our geothermal plants in Imperial Valley, CA.

Our CHAMPION culture drives our success by fostering high expectations, ownership and continuous improvement within a respectful and inclusive team environment. Through the CHAMPION mindset, we focus on the fundamentals – preparation, planning and attention to detail – holding ourselves accountable to do simple better. Alongside this, the BHE Renewables CARES program encourages employee volunteerism and invests in our communities, reinforcing our commitment to excellence and collaboration, making us stronger together.