Senior Metallurgical Engineer - Mineral Processing

Placements24; Kimberley; On-site; CAD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance bonuses

Professional development

Conference attendance

Housing allowance

Life insurance

Job summary

Placements24 is hiring a Senior Metallurgical Engineer for a major mining operation near Kimberley, Canada. The role centers on optimizing mineral processing to maximize metal recovery, product quality, and environmental compliance.

You will design, develop, and implement innovative metallurgical processes while leading and mentoring junior engineers and coordinating with plant teams. The ideal candidate has a strong background in mineral processing techniques, analytical methods, and process

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Metallurgical/related field required.
• 7+ years of progressive mineral processing/metallurgical experience.
• Strong knowledge of mineral separation, hydrometallurgy/pyrometallurgy, and process control.

Responsibilities

• Optimize existing mineral processing circuits to improve recovery and product quality.
• Design and conduct laboratory and pilot-scale tests for new processing technologies.
• Troubleshoot processing plant issues and identify root causes.
• Develop and maintain process models, mass/energy balances, and control strategies.
• Provide guidance to junior metallurgists and plant operators.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with geologists, mining engineers, and maintenance teams for integrated planning.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for management and projects.

Skills

Metallurgical Eng

Mineral processing

Process control

Data analysis

Leadership

Project management

Laboratory analysis

Education

Master's degree in Metallurgical Engineering

PhD in Metallurgical Engineering

Tools

METSIM

HSC Chemistry

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major mining operation, is seeking an experienced Senior Metallurgical Engineer to join their team in Kimberley. This critical role focuses on optimizing mineral processing operations to maximize metal recovery and product quality while ensuring environmental compliance and operational safety. You will be responsible for the design, development, and implementation of innovative metallurgical processes, troubleshooting operational challenges, and providing technical expertise to the processing plant teams. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of various mineral processing techniques, analytical methods, and process control strategies. We are looking for a proactive and data-driven engineer with strong problem-solving skills and the ability to lead and mentor junior engineers. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to a significant mining venture in the Northern Cape and advance your career in metallurgical engineering. The position is based at the operational mine site near Kimberley.

Key Responsibilities

• Optimize existing mineral processing circuits (e.g., comminution, flotation, leaching, gravity separation) to improve recovery rates and product quality.
• Design and conduct laboratory and pilot-scale test programs to evaluate new processing technologies and assess ore bodies.
• Troubleshoot operational issues in the processing plant, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions.
• Develop and maintain process models, mass and energy balances, and process control strategies.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior metallurgists and plant operators.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations related to metallurgical processes.
• Collaborate with geologists, mining engineers, and maintenance teams to ensure integrated operational planning.
• Prepare technical reports, process documentation, and presentations for management and project teams.
• Stay abreast of advancements in metallurgical science and technology, recommending innovative solutions.
• Manage process improvement projects from conception through to implementation.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in mineral processing and metallurgy, preferably within the diamond, gold, or base metals industry.
• In-depth knowledge of physical and chemical principles of mineral separation and hydrometallurgy/pyrometallurgy.
• Proven experience with process simulation software (e.g., METSIM, HSC Chemistry) and data analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of laboratory analytical techniques relevant to mineral characterization and process monitoring.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Effective communication, leadership, and teamwork abilities.
• Experience with project management methodologies and leading technical teams.
• Must be willing to work on-site at the mine, requiring periodic travel to remote locations.
• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa and reside in or be willing to relocate to the vicinity of Kimberley, Northern Cape.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, and a generous retirement fund, along with performance-based bonuses.
• Employees will have significant opportunities for professional development, including specialized training, conference attendance, and career advancement within the mining sector.
• This role is based at a key operational site near Kimberley, offering a challenging and rewarding career. Additional benefits include subsidized accommodation or housing allowance, rotational leave options, and life insurance.
• Join a forward-thinking mining company committed to technological advancement and responsible resource extraction.