Chemical Process Engineer - Mining & Minerals

Placements24; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 106,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and retirement benefits

Performance bonuses

Career development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Chemical Process Engineer to optimize mineral extraction and processing on-site in Queenstown. The role focuses on hydrometallurgy, process control, and data analysis to maximize resource recovery while upholding safety and environmental standards.

The successful candidate will lead projects across leaching, solvent extraction, and electrowinning, collaborate with metallurgists, and deliver technical reports. A strong background in mining processes is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or Metallurgical Engineering
• Minimum of 6 years of relevant process engineering experience in mining and minerals industry
• Strong knowledge of hydrometallurgical processes, chemical thermodynamics, and reaction kinetics
• Experience with process control systems and data analysis tools
• Familiarity with safety protocols and environmental regulations specific to mining operations
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and diagnostic skills
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities
• Must be able to work full-time on-site in Queenstown, Eastern Cape
• Previous experience in the Eastern Cape mining region is a significant advantage

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and control chemical processes for mineral beneficiation and extraction (e.g., leaching, precipitation, solvent extraction, electrowinning).
• Monitor process parameters using plant instrumentation and laboratory analysis to ensure product quality and yield targets are met.
• Troubleshoot operational issues, identify root causes of inefficiencies or quality deviations, and implement effective solutions.
• Conduct process simulations and mass/energy balance calculations to support process improvements and expansion projects.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety regulations (e.g., Mine Health and Safety Act) and environmental management plans.
• Collaborate with metallurgists, geologists, and operations teams to integrate process improvements.
• Prepare technical reports on process performance, project progress, and cost analysis.
• Assist in the design and commissioning of new process equipment and instrumentation.
• Stay updated on emerging technologies and best practices in mineral processing and hydrometallurgy.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major mining conglomerate with significant operations in the Eastern Cape, is actively recruiting for a diligent Chemical Process Engineer to join their team in Queenstown, Eastern Cape . This is a vital on-site role focused on optimizing and controlling the chemical processes involved in mineral extraction and processing. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in hydrometallurgy, chemical analysis, and process control within the mining sector. You will be instrumental in maximizing resource recovery, ensuring operational efficiency, and upholding the highest standards of safety and environmental stewardship. This is a challenging yet rewarding opportunity to contribute to a key industry sector in the Eastern Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and control chemical processes for mineral beneficiation and extraction (e.g., leaching, precipitation, solvent extraction, electrowinning).
• Monitor process parameters using plant instrumentation and laboratory analysis to ensure product quality and yield targets are met.
• Troubleshoot operational issues, identify root causes of inefficiencies or quality deviations, and implement effective solutions.
• Conduct process simulations and mass/energy balance calculations to support process improvements and expansion projects.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety regulations (e.g., Mine Health and Safety Act) and environmental management plans.
• Collaborate with metallurgists, geologists, and operations teams to integrate process improvements.
• Prepare technical reports on process performance, project progress, and cost analysis.
• Assist in the design and commissioning of new process equipment and instrumentation.
• Stay updated on emerging technologies and best practices in mineral processing and hydrometallurgy.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or Metallurgical Engineering.
• Minimum of 6 years of relevant experience in process engineering within the mining and minerals industry.
• Strong knowledge of hydrometallurgical processes, chemical thermodynamics, and reaction kinetics.
• Experience with process control systems and data analysis tools.
• Familiarity with safety protocols and environmental regulations specific to mining operations.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and diagnostic skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• Must be able to work full-time on-site in Queenstown, Eastern Cape .
• Previous experience in the Eastern Cape mining region is a significant advantage.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, potential for performance bonuses, and excellent career development opportunities within a large, established organization. This on-site role in Queenstown provides a stable and impactful career path in a crucial industry.