August 06, 2026 • 1 min read

Worley awarded contract for USSM’s multi‑metallic processing hub

Worley has been awarded an engineering services contract by Missouri Cobalt, LLC, doing business as United States Strategic Metals (USSM), to support the development of its multi-metallic processing hub in Missouri, United States. The project includes engineering and development of a cobalt refinery and a black mass processing line.

The facility will process multiple feedstocks including cobalt hydroxide to be made into alloy-grade cobalt metal products as well as black mass to be converted into constituent cobalt, nickel, copper and lithium products. These metals are critical inputs used in advanced manufacturing, energy storage and other growing industries in the United States. The project is intended to strengthen critical minerals supply chains across North America.

Under the agreement, Worley will provide engineering services, procurement support, and construction support through an integrated project management team. The work will be led from Worley’s Louisiana operations, supported by teams in Phoenix, the United Kingdom, and its Global Integrated Delivery Center (GID) in India.

“USSM’s Multi-Metallic Refinery project supports the development of critical mineral supply chains in the United States,” said Chris Ashton, Chief Executive Officer of Worley.

“We are pleased to apply our expertise in minerals and metals to support the delivery of this important project, advancing US Strategic Metals’ objectives.”

Worley applies its minerals and metals expertise across critical minerals, battery materials and processing facilities, supporting customers as they develop projects that strengthen supply chains and meet growing demand for strategic resources.

This project will help secure the domestic supply of critical minerals in North America. It also demonstrates Worley’s capability to deliver complex processing facilities through integrated global delivery teams.

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