Work Here?
Overview
Mesabi Metallics is building a large-scale iron ore mining and processing plant in Nashwauk, Minnesota, to produce Direct-Reduction (DR) grade iron ore pellets for the Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) steel market. The plant aims to produce 7 million metric tons per year of high-iron, low-impurity DR-grade pellets, enabling domestic supply of feedstock for green steel production and reducing dependence on imported iron ore. The operation uses taconite ore beneficiation and direct-reduced iron processes in a modern pellet plant, serving the EAF segment that prefers energy-efficient, scrap-based steelmaking. The project, led by CEO Joe Broking and COO Larry Sutherland and financed by Essar Group, represents a major private investment in Minnesota and is intended to advance the region’s industrial development, support US steel supply chain security, and align with decarbonization goals through increased use of DR-grade pellets and potential green-steel pathways.
About Mesabi Metallics
Industries
Industrial & Manufacturing
Company Size
51-200
Company Stage
Debt Financing
Total Funding
$670M
Headquarters
Minnesota
Founded
2008
Get referred to Mesabi Metallics
See people who can refer or advise you
Simplify's Take
What believers are saying
- August 13, 2026 hiring begins for 200 operators as full production approaches in Q3 2026.
- June 2026 Macquarie financing and $265 million royalty sale extend project funding runway.
- July 2026 commissioning of the Komatsu shovel and 1,700 contractors signal industrial momentum.
What critics are saying
- September 2026 startup slips if concentrator, pellet lines, or permits miss commissioning milestones.
- Kentucky DRI and mini-mill plans trigger new Minnesota EIS delays and capital dilution.
- Essar's long, bankruptcy-tainted project history makes financing or execution failure an existential risk.
What makes Mesabi Metallics unique
- Mesabi Metallics is building Minnesota's first new mine and pellet plant in nearly 50 years.
- Its Nashwauk output targets ultra-high-purity DR-grade pellets for EAF steelmakers, not standard taconite.
- The Patriot Pellet brand and domestic equipment strategy differentiate it as a nationalist industrial supplier.
Help us improve and share your feedback! Did you find this helpful?
Funding
Total Funding
$670M
Above
Industry Average
Funded Over
2 Rounds
Benefits
Health Insurance
401(k) Retirement Plan
401(k) Company Match
Disability Insurance
Life Insurance
Paid Vacation
Paid Holidays
Growth & Insights and Company News
6 month growth
↓ -3%1 year growth
↓ -3%2 year growth
↓ -3%Mesabi Metallics evaluating downstream opportunities. * By LEE BLOOMQUIST FOR MESABI TRIBUNE * Aug 13, 2026 * 0 As it nears pellet production on Minnesota's Iron Range, Mesabi Metallics is also exploring potential locations for a direct-reduced iron plant and steelmaking mini mill, perhaps outside Minnesota. "We are continually evaluating opportunities to go downstream," Joe Broking, Mesabi Metallics president and chief executive officer said. "One of the sites we are considering is in Kentucky. We are also looking at Minnesota. We are in no position to make a decision. We want to grow, but we want to do it in a responsible way." According to a Fastmarkets report, a consulting firm working on behalf of Mesabi Metallics has informed the Kentucky Division of Air Quality Permit Review Branch of a proposal "to construct and operate a new direct-reduced iron and scrap-to-steel manufacturing facility in Paducah, Kentucky." According to a permit application, the company would intend to produce about five million short tons of direct-reduced iron per year alongside a scrap-to-steel plant that would produce about seven million short tons of coiled steel annually, according to the report. Broking emphasized the company is looking at a number of potential locations and nothing has yet been decided. "There are multiple sites we are looking at," Broking said. The possibility of building a value-added iron plant and steelmaking facility in another state - or in Minnesota - comes as Mesabi Metallics heads toward completion of its $2.5 billion DR-grade iron ore pellet production facility near Nashwauk. Mesabi Metallics had earlier talked about building direct-reduced iron making and steelmaking facilities at Nashwauk. But company officials say construction of DRI and steelmaking making facilities at Nashwauk were not included in its most recent permit amendment in Minnesota. To build a DRI and/or steelmaking facility at Nashwauk would require Mesabi Metallics to again amend permits to put those units back into permitting, according to company officials. In addition, a full-blown Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) would be required to build the facilities in Minnesota, unlike other states, company officials say. The timetable to complete an EIS and receive permitting in Minnesota, would hold potential to delay construction timetables, according to company officials. If the company were to construct a direct-reduced iron making facility and mini mill outside Minnesota, the DR-grade pellets produced at its Nashwauk plant would feed the facility, Broking said. The pellets produced at Nashwauk will be the highest quality DR-grade pellets produced in the world, he said. From 1,700 to 1,900 contractors are working to complete the project, Broking said. The company's fleet of gigantic 400-ton haul trucks are in use, hauling material to build roads and berms. Processing equipment is expected to ramp up soon. "We expect to have a concentrator line running in August and continually producing concentrate on one mill line," Broking said. "Mill lines two and three are expected to begin running in September." Construction work is moving ahead on the pellet plant with a goal of producing the first pellets in September, Broking said. Construction activity is humming across the entire site with 25 cranes currently at work at the north end of the project where the pellet plant is being completed. Three blasts in the mine have taken place, he said. The facility's one primary crusher has been test run, but not yet run with feed. A massive hiring push is underway, Broking said. The company has received well over 2,000 applications with additional applications still coming in, he said. "These are going to be the highest paying jobs on the Range," Broking said. "It's something Mesabi Tribune is proud of along with the culture Mesabi Tribune want to build." The company recently offered jobs in the mining portion of the project to 40 applicants, he said. As of Tuesday, 37 of the 40 applicants had accepted, he said. When complete, Mesabi Metallics will be the first new pellet plant built on the Iron Range in about 50 years. At capacity it will produce about seven million tons of DR-grade pellets per year and employ about 350. With a higher iron content and lower silica content than traditional iron ore pellets, DR-grade pellets are used to make feed such as hot-briquetted iron to help make steel from mini mill electric arc furnaces. Scrap is also mixed with the higher-added iron in electric arc furnaces to produce the liquid used to make steel. (0 Ratings) Load comments
Minnesota's Mesabi Metallics aims to revolutionize steel production with green practices. Key points. * Mesabi Metallics is set to become Minnesota's first new iron ore mine in 50 years. * The facility aims to produce low-carbon steel, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. * Experts believe the global market for direct reduction-grade pellets could quadruple by 2034. * The project faces competition but has a vision for sustainable steelmaking in the region. Mesabi Metallics is preparing to launch Minnesota's first new iron ore mine in half a century, marking a significant development in the region's mining history. Located on the Iron Range, the project represents a $2.5 billion investment by the Essar Group, aimed at producing iron pellets with a focus on sustainability and low-carbon steel production. Currently, the construction site is extensive, with operations expected to start by fall 2026, following the recent completion of initial blasts to extract iron ore. This facility will have a capacity of up to 7 million tons of direct reduction-grade (DR-grade) pellets annually, which are essential for creating lower-emission steel. The global steel industry is under pressure to reduce its carbon footprint, accounting for a significant 9% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Mesabi Metallics is positioning itself to lead the charge towards cleaner iron production, with CEO Joe Broking stating that the mine could be the cleanest in North America, if not the world. This goal aligns with global trends towards sustainable manufacturing practices, as the demand for DR-grade pellets is projected to grow significantly in the coming years. Despite the promise of the Mesabi Metallics project, the Iron Range will face competition from established players like Cleveland-Cliffs and U.S. Steel, who are also investing in low-carbon technologies. These developments suggest a competitive landscape for sourcing iron ore for steelmaking, but Mesabi Metallics is optimistic about its unique value proposition and commitment to sustainability. However, local experts voice concerns about whether this revitalization of the mining industry will reverse the long-standing demographic decline in the region. While the potential for green jobs and economic growth is evident, the region may need broader strategies to fully capitalize on the future of green steel products. Broking acknowledges the long-term vision for expanded operations at the site but emphasizes that concrete investment decisions will be made cautiously. As the facility gears up for production, the collective efforts of stakeholders will be crucial in determining Minnesota's role in the evolving green steel landscape. July 28, 2026 at 03:40 PM Nashwauk, United States
Mesabi Metallics launches "Patriot Pellet" * 5 hrs ago * 0 Mesabi Metallics Company LLC (Mesabi Metallics) announced the launch of Patriot Pellet, its flagship brand for the highest-quality, direct reduction-grade (DR-grade) iron ore pellets produced in the United States. The launch comes over Independence Day weekend, marking the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. For over 125 years, American workers on the Iron Range mined the ore that was used to forge the steel that built America. From the skyscrapers of American cities to the tanks and planes that won World War II, domestically mined iron ore from Northeastern Minnesota has been the backbone of the United States' industrial dominance. With the launch of Patriot Pellet, and the planned opening of the first new iron mine and pellet plant in 50 years, Mesabi Metallics is recognizing the history of domestically mined iron, while committing to support the next generation of American steelmaking. "The Minnesota Iron Range contains approximately 40 billion tonnes of available iron ore resources," said Joe Broking, President and CEO of Mesabi Metallics. "The Minnesota Iron Range has waited for 50 years to see investments being made on the scale of Mesabi Metallics, there is significant opportunity for American steelmakers to source their iron ore domestically." Patriot Pellet represents the premium tier of Mesabi Metallics' pellet production: ultra-high purity, DR-grade material engineered to service America's rapidly growing direct reduced iron (DRI) and electric arc furnace (EAF)-based steel industry. Mined and processed entirely in the United States, Patriot Pellet reflects a multigenerational investment in the Iron Range's future. With the development of Patriot Pellet, Mesabi Metallics is ensuring that the next generation of American steelmaking will not remain reliant on foreign sources of iron ore. "Miners on the Iron Range built America," continued Broking. "As the American steel industry continues to evolve and expand, Patriot Pellet is our commitment to ensuring the best American steel will always have the highest quality American iron behind it." What sets Patriot Pellet apart: * Uncompromising DR-grade purity - utilizing high-quality iron ore from the Mesabi iron range, Patriot Pellet is engineered for premium performance in Direct Reduction Iron processing plants that serve as a feedstock for DRI and EAF based steelmaking * 100% domestic production - mined and processed entirely at Mesabi Metallics' Nashwauk, Minnesota facility, Patriot Pellet supports 350 high-quality, family sustaining domestic jobs * High-grade merchant pellets, available to the U.S. market with operations expected to start in August 2026 * A durable, long-term supply chain - with decades of iron ore availability, Patriot Pellet is positioned to support the long-term growth of America's EAF steelmaking industry About Mesabi Metallics Company LLC Mesabi Metallics Company LLC, an Essar Group company, is developing a state-of-the-art DR-grade iron ore mine and pellet plant in Nashwauk, Minnesota. Upon completion, the project will represent an approximately $2.5 billion investment and become the first new iron ore mine and pellet plant developed in Minnesota in nearly fifty years. Mesabi is expected to produce some of the highest-grade DR pellets in the world, providing a secure domestic supply of critical raw materials needed to support America's steel industry, infrastructure buildout, shipbuilding, defense industrial base and broader manufacturing resurgence. Mesabi Metallics is the cornerstone of a broader strategy to re-shore critical steel supply chains and industrial production back to the United States. (0 Ratings) Load comments Newsletters.
Mesabi Metallics launches "Patriot Pellet" - America's premium dr-grade iron ore, mined at first new American mine and pellet plant in 50 years. Announced on the United States' 250th Anniversary Celebration, the pellet demonstrates a commitment to the future of American-made iron and steel [NASHWAUK, MN] - Mesabi Metallics Company LLC (Mesabi Metallics) today announced the launch of Patriot Pellet, its flagship brand for the highest-quality, direct reduction-grade (DR-grade) iron ore pellets produced in the United States. The launch comes over Independence Day weekend, marking the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. For over 125 years, American workers on the Iron Range mined the ore that was used to forge the steel that built America. From the skyscrapers of American cities to the tanks and planes that won World War II, domestically mined iron ore from Northeastern Minnesota has been the backbone of the United States' industrial dominance. With the launch of Patriot Pellet, and the planned opening of the first new iron mine and pellet plant in 50 years, Mesabi Metallics is recognizing the history of domestically mined iron, while committing to support the next generation of American steelmaking. "The Minnesota Iron Range contains approximately 40 billion tonnes of available iron ore resources," said Joe Broking, President and CEO of Mesabi Metallics. "The Minnesota Iron Range has waited for 50 years to see investments being made on the scale of Mesabi Metallics, there is significant opportunity for American steelmakers to source their iron ore domestically." Patriot Pellet represents the premium tier of Mesabi Metallics' pellet production: ultra-high purity, DR-grade material engineered to service America's rapidly growing direct reduced iron (DRI) and electric arc furnace (EAF)-based steel industry. Mined and processed entirely in the United States, Patriot Pellet reflects a multigenerational investment in the Iron Range's future. With the development of Patriot Pellet, Mesabi Metallics is ensuring that the next generation of American steelmaking will not remain reliant on foreign sources of iron ore. "Miners on the Iron Range built America," continued Broking. "As the American steel industry continues to evolve and expand, Patriot Pellet is our commitment to ensuring the best American steel will always have the highest quality American iron behind it." What sets the Patriot Pellet apart: * Uncompromising DR-grade purity - utilizing high-quality iron ore from the Mesabi iron range, Patriot Pellet is engineered for premium performance in Direct Reduction Iron processing plants that serve as a feedstock for DRI and EAF based steelmaking * 100% domestic production - mined and processed entirely at Mesabi Metallics' Nashwauk, Minnesota facility, Patriot Pellet supports 350 high-quality, family sustaining domestic jobs * High-grade merchant pellets, available to the U.S. market with operations expected to start in August 2026 * A durable, long-term supply chain - with decades of iron ore availability, Patriot Pellet is positioned to support the long-term growth of America's EAF steelmaking industry About Mesabi Metallics Company LLC Mesabi Metallics Company LLC, an Essar Group company, is developing a state-of-the-art DR-grade iron ore mine and pellet plant in Nashwauk, Minnesota. Upon completion, the project will represent an approximately $2.5 billion investment and become the first new iron ore mine and pellet plant developed in Minnesota in nearly fifty years. Mesabi is expected to produce some of the highest-grade DR pellets in the world, providing a secure domestic supply of critical raw materials needed to support America's steel industry, infrastructure buildout, shipbuilding, defense industrial base and broader manufacturing resurgence. Mesabi Metallics is the cornerstone of a broader strategy to re-shore critical steel supply chains and industrial production back to the United States.
Mesabi Metallics launches major hiring push to build a highly skilled workforce at America's next-generation iron ore mine. With more than 1,000 construction workers on site daily, Mesabi Metallics now opens hiring for full-time, family-sustaining jobs on Minnesota's Iron Range [NASHWAUK, MN] - Mesabi Metallics Company LLC (Mesabi Metallics) is launching a major hiring initiative for operator positions as the company advances toward full commercial operations in Q3 2026, marking the opening of Minnesota's first new mine and pellet plant in nearly 50 years. The $2.5 billion world-scale facility will produce premium Direct Reduction (DR) grade iron ore pellets for America's Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) steelmakers, strengthening the steel supply chain that powers the American economy. Mesabi Metallics is now seeking to add approximately 200 operational jobs in the near future, building a highly skilled team that will power one of the most important critical minerals projects in the United States. The company is establishing a high-performance work culture designed to deliver high-quality, family-sustaining jobs and make Mesabi Metallics employees amongst the most well-paid mine operators on the Iron Range. Mining on the Iron Range has a proud history built by miners who worked hard in demanding conditions, and Mesabi Metallics honors that legacy. Built from the ground up with new technology at its core, every element is designed around the operator. Advanced automation, digital process controls and advanced mining equipment put people in command of a working environment that is precision-driven, modern and built for the future of Minnesota's Iron Range. The company's initial hiring plan is focused on building the long-term foundation of its operations workforce, with additional hiring expected throughout 2026 as startup activities continue to expand. "We are building a high-performance team that will set a new standard for mining in the United States," said Joe Broking, President and CEO of Mesabi Metallics. "Our variable compensation system gives every one of our team members a real stake in this operation: bonuses earned on every safe, quality tonne produced. If you want purpose, stability and the chance to be part of something that truly matters to the Iron Range and to this country, Mesabi Metallics is now ready to welcome you." Mesabi Metallics is hiring operator roles across all areas of the operation: concentrator, pellet plant and mining. The company endeavors to offer competitive wages, strong benefits and long-term career opportunities in a modern, technology-driven environment.
Mesabi Metallics is Hiring for 58 Jobs on Simplify!
Find jobs on Simplify and start your career today
About Mesabi Metallics
Industries
Industrial & Manufacturing
Company Size
51-200
Company Stage
Debt Financing
Total Funding
$670M
Headquarters
Minnesota
Founded
2008
Mesabi Metallics is Hiring for 58 Jobs on Simplify!
Find jobs on Simplify and start your career today