Optimization Engineer

Description

Summary: This Global Graduate Programme offers a fast-track to leadership, providing hands-on experience in managing CAPEX and operational projects within mineral processing. Highlights: 1. Two-year rotational programme with early responsibility 2. Hands-on experience with real business projects 3. Opportunity for international or regional business exposure Optimization Engineer**Location:** Rio Maior**At Sibelco, we advance life through materials.** For over 150 years, we’ve been a trusted leader in sourcing, transforming, and distributing specialty industrial minerals. Our work powers progress across industries as diverse as glass, ceramics, construction, coatings, polymers, and water purification. Beyond our materials, we’re proud of our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and empowering people from all walks of life to thrive and make a meaningful impact. **Are We the Perfect Match?** At Sibelco, we believe building a successful career is a two\-way journey. We’re looking for individuals who share our values and vision, just as much as you’re seeking a company that aligns with your aspirations. Together, we can shape the future. **Job Description:** **The Global Graduate****Programme****– A Fast\-Track to Leadership** The Sibelco **Global Graduate****Programme** is a **two\-year rotational****programme** consisting of two **one\-year assignments** in key operational and commercial roles. Participants gain **hands\-on experience with****real business****projects**, ensuring early responsibility and exposure to strategic decision\-making. Participants receive a **permanent contract from the start**, ensuring long\-term career prospects within Sibelco. As part of this programme, we are recruiting a **Graduate Project Engineer** for a one\-year assignment focused on **managing CAPEX projects and operational improvements at the cluster level** in Rio Maior. Graduates must also be **open to spending their second year in a different cluster** outside their initial region to gain **international or regional business exposure**. **Your Impact in This Role** This assignment focuses on **technical project management** for CAPEX and operational projects, ensuring safe, sustainable, and cost\-effective mineral processing improvements. Key responsibilities include: * Managing **CAPEX projects** using internationally standardized methods and best practices * Overseeing the **execution and final outcomes** of operational projects at the cluster level * Driving **process innovation** in areas such as **recycling and environmental applications** * Supporting **safe, efficient, and high\-quality** mineral processing facility improvements **What You Bring to the Table** * **Engineering degree** with an interest in **innovation, recycling, or environmental applications** * Strong **analytical and problem\-solving skills** * **Leadership, communication, and project management skills** * Interest in **process optimization and CAPEX project execution** * **Spanish language skills recommended but not mandatory** * **Driving license****required** * **Openness to spending the second year in a different cluster** for international/regional experience **Our Selection Process** * **Application Submission** – CV \& Cover/Motivation Letter * **First Interview** – Initial screening and discussion about your background and motivations * **Assessment** – Evaluating key competencies required for the role * **Business Case Study** – A real\-world challenge to assess problem\-solving and strategic thinking * **Panel Interview** – Final interview with key stakeholders **Why Join Us?** Sibelco’s **Global Graduate****Programme** is a unique opportunity to gain **early career exposure to****real business****challenges and decision\-making**. Participants benefit from: * **A permanent contract from the start** – full\-time role, not an internship * **Competitive salary** – we recognize and reward talent * **Relocation support** – receipts\-based reimbursement * **Real responsibility \& hands\-on experience** – make an impact from day one * **Structured career path** – strong performers advance quickly * **Performance guidance \& mentorship** – continuous support throughout your assignment * **International/regional exposure** – second\-year assignment in a different location **Employee Type:** Graduate**Why Join Us?** Sibelco is more than a workplace—it’s a community that encourages growth, innovation, and collaboration. Here’s what you can look forward to when you join our team: * **Meet Our People:** Careers * **Learn About Our Recruitment Process:** Learn More * **Discover Our Sustainability Goals:** Sibelco priorities We also welcome applications from all backgrounds and are committed to providing reasonable adjustments to support you through the selection process. **How to Apply** Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter/X and Facebook to learn more about life at Sibelco. Submit your application in the **Apply** option. Please note: We do not require agency services as we have a dedicated Global Talent Acquisition Team.