Rotary Kiln Process & Operations Specialist

Deep thermal expertise. Commercial-scale thinking. Ready to build from the ground up.Our client is developing advanced industrial mineral and critical mineral processing platforms focused on reshoring strategic materials production. They're building out high-temperature thermal processing operations and need someone who knows rotary kiln systems from spec to startup, and everything in between.This isn't a desktop role. It's for someone who has worked directly with kiln OEMs, managed commissioning challenges in the field, and understands what it actually takes to take a system from design to full production.What You'll DoLead the technical development and optimization of rotary kiln systems for high-alumina and refractory raw material processing.Develop and optimize kiln thermal profiles, heat transfer models, and process operating windows.Support kiln sizing, process flow development, and operating parameter selection.Work with OEMs and engineering firms on kiln design and specification.Optimize burner systems and combustion efficiency.Support refractory selection and lining design.Develop feed systems and material handling systems.Support cooler design and thermal recovery systems.Evaluate emissions control and dust collection systems.Assist with construction oversight, commissioning, startup, troubleshooting, and operational ramp-up.Evaluate process bottlenecks, refractory wear, burner efficiency, and energy consumption.Develop operating procedures and process improvement initiatives.Coordinate with internal engineering, operations, and commercial teams.Support scale-up from pilot and demonstration systems to commercial operations.Who You Are10+ years of hands-on experience with rotary kiln systems and high-temperature thermal processing.Strong background in industrial mineral or refractory raw material processing, including materials such as kaolin, clay, bauxite, alumina-based minerals, ceramic minerals, and proppants.Deep understanding of rotary kiln thermal behavior, combustion systems, refractory design, heat transfer, and thermal efficiency.Experience with feed system design, dust collection systems, emissions equipment, and cooler design.Experience working directly with kiln OEMs, refractory suppliers, and engineering firms.Proven experience supporting commissioning and operational troubleshooting.Comfortable with approximately 50% travel, both domestically and internationally.Nice to HaveExperience with calcination, sintering, or mineral activation processes.Background in refractory materials, advanced ceramics, alumina processing, or critical minerals.Familiarity with process modeling and thermal simulation tools.Experience in greenfield industrial plant development.Spanish or Portuguese language skills are a plus.LogisticsLocation: Remote, USA or South America, approximately 50% travel requiredCompensation: $150,000 – $250,000 per yearWe understand no candidate will meet every single desired qualification. If your experience looks a little different from what we've identified and you think you can bring value to the role, we'd love to learn more about you!