Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Gajan Sivapalan

Kingman

Summary

With over ten years of industry experience, I am a results-driven professional specializing in metallurgy and mineral processing. I have a strong track record of analyzing and optimizing metallurgical processes to improve productivity, quality, and operational efficiency. My career has included leading multidisciplinary teams, managing complex projects, and providing strategic technical guidance.

Overview

14
14
years of professional experience

Work History

Chief Metallurgist

Origin Mining Company LLC
06.2024 - Current
  • Oversee and optimize the milling and processing operations for copper and molybdenum ores.
  • Provide advanced metallurgical technical support and guidance to operations teams.
  • Lead, mentor, and develop metallurgical staff and laboratory personnel.
  • Analyze production data to identify and implement process improvements for efficiency, recovery, and cost reduction.
  • Manage metallurgical accounting, including metal balances, production statistics, and reporting.
  • Develop and monitor daily, weekly, and monthly operational plans and performance targets.
  • Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations and company policies.
  • Coordinate and supervise metallurgical laboratory activities and test work.
  • Collaborate with mine planning, geology, and technical services to optimize ore quality and blending.
  • Prepare and manage budgets for the metallurgical department, including forecasting and cost control.
  • Stay updated on industry advancements and integrate innovative practices into plant operations.

Senior Chemical Process Engineer

Tesla
09.2023 - 06.2024
  • Implemented, developed, and optimized production methodologies for energy cell manufacturing and other chemical processes.
  • Provided process engineering support to resolve bottlenecks and address long-standing operational issues.
  • Led process improvement initiatives focused on cost reduction, yield enhancement, and efficiency gains.
  • Mentored and trained junior engineers and collaborate with cross-functional teams, including design, test, and quality engineering.
  • Analyzed production data, identified trends, and ensured processes remained within specification for quality and safety.
  • Oversaw the commissioning, startup, and operational readiness of new process and utility systems.
  • Participated in process hazard reviews, such as HAZOP/HAZID/SIL studies, and ensure compliance with safety standards.
  • Evaluated, specified, and supported the design and installation of new chemical delivery systems and equipment.

Senior Mineral Process Engineer

Teck Resources Limited
02.2020 - 09.2023
  • Provided technical leadership and support for process optimization and troubleshooting across the concentrator and mineral processing plant.
  • Developed, implemented, and monitored process improvement initiatives to increase recovery, throughput, and overall plant efficiency.
  • Designed, oversaw, and interpreted metallurgical test work programs, both on-site and in laboratories, to support plant operations and projects.
  • Analyzed plant data, conduct mass balances, and prepared detailed technical reports and recommendations for plant performance improvements.
  • Mentored and trained junior engineers and plant operators, fostering knowledge transfer and technical development within the team.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams, including operations, maintenance, and external consultants, to ensure process solutions are practical and aligned with operational goals.
  • Ensured all process engineering activities adhere to safety, health, environmental, and regulatory standards, and participate in hazard studies and risk assessments

Shift Supervisor

Teck Resources Limited
12.2016 - 01.2020
  • Directed and coordinate daily shift operations, including assigning tasks and monitoring production targets.
  • Supervised, supported, and trained crew members, including onboarding new employees and addressing personnel issues.
  • Monitored equipment performance and process efficiency, making real-time adjustments to optimize plant operations.
  • Communicated shift handovers and operational updates to ensure seamless transitions and continuity between shifts.
  • Responded to emergencies and operational incidents, taking prompt action and facilitating emergency procedures as needed.
  • Maintained accurate production and operational records, ensuring compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.

Process Metallurgist

Teck Resources Limited
06.2011 - 12.2016
  • Provided technical support and advice in metallurgical testing and analysis at assigned sites.
  • Conducted metallurgical studies and analyses to evaluate process efficiency.
  • Prepared standard reports on metallurgical or process issues and recommended corrective actions to resolve operational challenges.
  • Reviewed new or enhanced metallurgical testing equipment and protocols to optimize accuracy and reliability.
  • Evaluated and administered contracts with vendors for services and equipment procurement.
  • Developed and maintained knowledge of applicable local, state, and federal regulations impacting metallurgical operations.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Mining Engineering

The University of British Columbia
Vancouver, BC
05-2011

Skills

  • Plant Commissioning
  • Process optimization
  • Process Improvement
  • Data Analysis
  • Metallurgical designing tools
  • Mass balances
  • Reporting

Timeline

Chief Metallurgist

Origin Mining Company LLC
06.2024 - Current

Senior Chemical Process Engineer

Tesla
09.2023 - 06.2024

Senior Mineral Process Engineer

Teck Resources Limited
02.2020 - 09.2023

Shift Supervisor

Teck Resources Limited
12.2016 - 01.2020

Process Metallurgist

Teck Resources Limited
06.2011 - 12.2016

Bachelor of Science - Mining Engineering

The University of British Columbia
Gajan Sivapalan