Welcome to Golden Queen Mining Co., LLC – Pioneering Precious Metal Production in the Mojave Desert
Golden Queen Mining Co., LLC is a dynamic, privately‑owned mining company dedicated to the responsible extraction of gold and silver from our flagship Soledad Mountain property in Kern County, California. Our open‑pit, heap‑leach operation combines time‑tested mining methods with cutting‑edge processing technologies such as the cyanide heap leach and Merrill‑Crowe precipitation processes. Nestled just outside the historic town of Mojave—dubbed the “Golden Crossroads” for its strategic position at the junction of Highways 14 and 58—our site offers a unique blend of rugged outdoor adventure and modern industrial innovation.
Golden Queen isn’t just a place to work; it’s a community. Our employees live in a vibrant network of towns including Boron, California City, Lancaster, Mojave, Palmdale, Ridgecrest, Rosamond, Tehachapi, and Victorville. Whether you enjoy mountain biking in Red Rock Canyon State Park, skiing at Mammoth Mountain, exploring the Pacific Crest Trail, or taking the family to world‑renowned theme parks like Disneyland and Universal Studios, life in the High Desert delivers a rich, well‑rounded lifestyle. We foster a culture of safety, teamwork, and continuous learning—values that empower every employee to thrive both on‑site and, when appropriate, from the comfort of their own home.
Why This Role Matters – The Position at a Glance
We are seeking an enthusiastic, safety‑conscious individual to join our operations team as a Process Operator. This is an entry‑level, hybrid position that blends hands‑on, outdoor work at our heap‑leach pad and processing plant with the flexibility of remote work when tasks allow. As a critical link in our production chain, you will assist seasoned supervisors and engineers in maintaining optimal plant performance, ensuring that precious metal recovery is efficient, safe, and environmentally responsible.
Key Advantages of Joining Golden Queen
- Hybrid Flexibility: Split your time between the field and a remote workspace, giving you autonomy while staying connected to core operations.
- Career Progression: Structured training pathways, mentorship from industry experts, and clear advancement routes to senior operator or supervisory roles.
- Competitive Compensation: Attractive salary, 401(k) with company match, health insurance (PPO & HMO), paid holidays, and vacation accruals.
- Inclusive Culture: Diverse workforce, safety‑first mindset, and community‑building activities both on‑site and off‑site.
Core Responsibilities – What You’ll Do Every Day
Plant Operations – Supporting the Merrill‑Crowe Process
- Assist with bringing filter presses online and offline, ensuring smooth transitions that maintain product quality.
- Support blow‑down procedures and perform routine press cleaning to prevent contamination.
- Help clean and maintain solution clarifiers, guaranteeing clear, stable solutions for downstream processing.
- Participate in precoating of presses and clarifiers, following precise timing and dosage protocols.
- Adjust zinc cone settings under supervision to optimize precipitation efficiency.
- Conduct safe retorting of precipitous materials, adhering strictly to mercury‑cleanup best practices.
- Monitor production wells, recording flow rates and identifying any irregularities for immediate escalation.
- Observe plant solution flows, making minor parameter adjustments to sustain balanced operations.
- Assist in powering up the backup generator and switching MCC (Motor Control Center) power as required during outages.
- Complete daily equipment and work‑area inspections, documenting findings in the plant logbook.
- Consistently apply company safety policies, environmental regulations, and standard operating procedures.
- Undertake additional duties as assigned by the Merrill‑Crowe Process Supervisor, fostering cross‑functional knowledge.
Heap‑Leach Pad Operations – Maintaining Optimal Leach Conditions
- Assist in the preparation and inspection of leach pad solution lines, ensuring proper routing and integrity.
- Support installation and maintenance of side‑slope emitter lines, crucial for uniform solution distribution.
- Participate in the placement of solution header pipes, adhering to engineering specifications.
- Monitor and maintain all off‑line emitter lines, promptly addressing leaks or blockages.
- Repair and install solution lines, employing safety‑approved tools and techniques.
- Observe heap conditions, adjusting flow rates as needed to maximize metal recovery while preventing over‑leaching.
- Carry out comprehensive work‑area and equipment inspections on the pad, logging any safety concerns.
- Uphold company policies and environmental safeguards while performing outdoor tasks under variable weather conditions.
- Take on additional responsibilities as delegated, promoting a versatile skill set.
Essential Qualifications – What We Require
- High school diploma or GED; post‑secondary education in mining, engineering technology, or related fields is a plus.
- Demonstrated ability to follow detailed instructions and standard operating procedures without deviation.
- Basic computer literacy, including familiarity with data entry and the ability to learn specialized equipment software.
- Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record; the ability to operate company vehicles safely.
- Strong attendance record and punctuality, reflecting reliability in a safety‑critical environment.
- Willingness to work outdoors in a range of temperatures and weather conditions, embracing the physical aspects of the role.
- Excellent communication skills—both verbal and written—to effectively report observations and coordinate with team members.
- Team‑oriented mindset with a commitment to collaborative problem‑solving.
Preferred Qualifications – What Will Set You Apart
- Prior experience in labor‑intensive environments such as agriculture, landscaping, construction, or industrial processing.
- Exposure to mining or mineral processing operations, even at an introductory level.
- Certification or training in occupational safety (e.g., OSHA 10‑hour, HAZWOPER).
- Familiarity with basic mechanical troubleshooting and the use of hand tools.
- Experience with remote work tools (e.g., video conferencing, digital reporting platforms) that enhance hybrid productivity.
- Demonstrated commitment to continuous learning—completion of relevant courses or participation in industry workshops.
Key Skills & Competencies for Success
- Safety Awareness: Proactive identification of hazards, adherence to PPE requirements, and participation in safety drills.
- Attention to Detail: Precise measurement, documentation, and reporting of process parameters.
- Physical Stamina: Ability to lift moderate weights, stand for extended periods, and navigate uneven terrain.
- Problem‑Solving: Quick identification of deviations and efficient escalation to supervisors.
- Technical Aptitude: Comfort with reading schematics, operating control panels, and learning software interfaces.
- Communication: Clear articulation of observations, active listening, and respectful collaboration.
- Adaptability: Willingness to rotate between plant and pad tasks, and to pivot between on‑site and remote duties as needed.
Career Growth – Your Path Forward at Golden Queen
Golden Queen Mining invests heavily in the professional development of its workforce. As an entry‑level Process Operator, you will have access to a structured training curriculum that covers:
- Comprehensive onboarding that includes safety certifications, equipment operation, and environmental compliance.
- Mentorship pairings with senior operators and engineers, providing hands‑on guidance and career advice.
- Opportunities to attend industry conferences, webinars, and technical workshops—both in‑person and virtually.
- Cross‑training in related disciplines such as equipment maintenance, metallurgical analysis, and environmental monitoring.
- Clear promotion pathways to roles like Senior Process Operator, Shift Supervisor, or Technical Services Specialist, each accompanied by salary increments and expanded responsibilities.
Our commitment to internal mobility means that high‑performing team members can advance quickly, taking on leadership positions that shape the future of our mining operations.
Work Environment & Company Culture
Golden Queen fosters a workplace where safety, respect, and innovation intersect. Our core cultural pillars include:
- Safety First: Zero‑tolerance for unsafe behavior; daily briefings, safety audits, and continuous improvement loops.
- Team Unity: Regular team‑building events, recognition programs, and an open‑door policy for feedback.
- Environmental Stewardship: Responsible water management, reclamation initiatives, and strict adherence to federal and state regulations.
- Work‑Life Balance: The hybrid model offers flexibility, while scheduled shifts and predictable hours help employees plan personal time.
- Community Engagement: Company‑sponsored volunteer days, support for local schools, and participation in regional events.
Our facilities are equipped with modern amenities, including comfortable break rooms, on‑site medical stations, and secure locker areas, ensuring that you have the resources needed to perform at your best.
Compensation, Perks & Benefits
While specific salary figures are tailored to experience and market conditions, all successful candidates can expect a comprehensive package that includes:
- Competitive Base Salary commensurate with industry standards for entry‑level operators.
- 401(k) Plan with generous company matching to help you build long‑term financial security.
- Health Insurance Options including PPO and HMO plans, with dental and vision coverage.
- Paid Time Off comprising 10 paid holidays, accrued vacation days, and sick leave.
- Professional Development Allowance for certifications, training courses, or conference attendance.
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering confidential counseling and wellness resources.
- Transportation Support—company‑provided vehicles for on‑site travel and mileage reimbursement for personal use.
How to Apply – Take the Next Step in Your Career
If you are a motivated, safety‑oriented individual eager to launch a rewarding career in the mining industry, we want to hear from you. Please submit your resume, a brief cover letter outlining your interest and relevant experience, and any certifications you hold through our online application portal.
Apply Now and become part of a team that values your growth, respects your well‑being, and celebrates your contributions to the world’s precious metal supply chain.
Join Our Team!
This is a fantastic opportunity to grow your career. If you have the skills and passion we’re looking for, please submit your application today.
Apply Now
Apply Now