Lead Chemical Engineer - Extractive Metallurgy

Placements24; Willows (CA); On-site; USD 72,000 - 108,000; Full time

Job summary

Our client in South Africa seeks a distinguished Lead Chemical Engineer specializing in Extractive Metallurgy to lead the design, optimization, and implementation of advanced metallurgical processes for mineral recovery and refinement. The role is on-site in Welkom and requires driving innovation while ensuring safety and environmental compliance.

Key responsibilities include leading a team of engineers, analyzing process data, and delivering comprehensive technical reports to senior management.

Qualifications

• Postgraduate degree in Chemical Engineering or Metallurgy.
• 8–10 years in extractive metallurgy with process design/optimization experience.
• Proven leadership of technical teams.
• Experience with flotation, leaching, solvent extraction, and electrowinning.
• Proficient in process modeling software (METSIM, HSC Chemistry).
• Strong knowledge of mining regulations and environmental best practices.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee conceptualization, design, and scaling of metallurgical processes.
• Lead engineers and technicians with technical guidance and mentorship.
• Analyze process data to identify improvements and implement solutions.
• Develop and manage project plans, budgets, and timelines for development initiatives.
• Ensure health, safety, and environmental compliance throughout the lifecycle.
• Collaborate with geologists, metallurgists, and operations to integrate design with ore characteristics.
• Stay abreast of advancements in extractive metallurgy and assess applicability.
• Generate technical reports and present findings to management.

Skills

Leadership

Metallurgical process optimization

Flotation

Leaching

Solvent extraction

Electrowinning

Education

MSc/PhD in Chemical Engineering or Metallurgy

Tools

METSIM

HSC Chemistry

Job description

About the Role

Our client is actively seeking a distinguished Lead Chemical Engineer with specialized expertise in Extractive Metallurgy to join their esteemed operations in Welkom, Free State, ZA. This pivotal role will lead the design, optimization, and implementation of advanced metallurgical processes for mineral recovery and refinement. The successful candidate will be instrumental in driving technological innovation, ensuring operational efficiency, and maintaining the highest standards of safety and environmental compliance. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of mineral processing in a key South African mining region. The position is based entirely on-site, fostering deep collaboration and hands-on problem-solving within the operational environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the conceptualization, design, and scaling-up of innovative metallurgical processes.
• Lead a team of engineers and technicians, providing technical guidance and mentorship.
• Conduct in-depth analysis of process data to identify areas for improvement and implement solutions.
• Develop and manage project plans, budgets, and timelines for metallurgical process development initiatives.
• Ensure adherence to all health, safety, and environmental regulations throughout the process lifecycle.
• Collaborate closely with geologists, metallurgists, and operations personnel to integrate process design with ore body characteristics.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in extractive metallurgy and assess their applicability to our client's operations.
• Generate comprehensive technical reports and present findings to senior management and stakeholders.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex metallurgical processing challenges in real-time.

Requirements

• Postgraduate degree (MSc or PhD) in Chemical Engineering or Metallurgy.
• A minimum of 8-10 years of relevant experience in extractive metallurgy, with a strong focus on process design and optimization in the mining industry.
• Demonstrated leadership experience, including managing technical teams.
• Expertise in mineral processing techniques such as flotation, leaching, solvent extraction, and electrowinning.
• Proficiency in process modeling and simulation software (e.g., METSIM, HSC Chemistry).
• In-depth knowledge of relevant South African mining regulations and environmental best practices.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience working within the Welkom mining district is a significant advantage.

Benefits

• Our client provides a highly competitive remuneration package, including an attractive annual salary, substantial performance bonuses, comprehensive medical and dental coverage, a robust retirement fund, and generous paid time off.
• Opportunities for professional development, attending international conferences, and career advancement within a globally recognized organization are also provided.
• The company fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, ensuring employees are supported in their professional journeys.