Lead Metallurgist - Beneficiation & Process Optimization

Placements24; United States; Remote; USD 107,000 - 154,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health coverage

Retirement savings plan

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Metallurgist in Klerksdorp, North West, to drive beneficiation and process optimization across mining operations. You will lead lab and plant activities, improving recovery, product quality, and process efficiency.

The role requires strong expertise in hydrometallurgy or pyrometallurgy, plus 8+ years in mineral processing. You will mentor a team and collaborate with R&D, engineering, and operations to advance metallurgical innovation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering or related field.
• 8+ years mining/metallurgy experience, gold/base metals beneficiation preferred.
• Strong leadership and problem-solving skills with plant-scale experience.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage metallurgical processes to optimize recovery and product quality.
• Lead lab and pilot test work to evaluate new processing methods and reagents.
• Analyze plant data, identify bottlenecks, and implement corrective actions with teams.
• Troubleshoot metallurgical issues and guide plant operations.
• Oversee design/commissioning of new equipment and upgrades.
• Ensure environmental and safety compliance at site in Klerksdorp.

Skills

Metallurgy leadership

Hydrometallurgy / Pyrometallurgy

Laboratory techniques

Process modeling

Statistical analysis

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process modeling software

Statistical analysis tools

Laboratory instrumentation

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned mining group, is seeking an accomplished Lead Metallurgist to spearhead their beneficiation and process optimization initiatives in **Klerksdorp, North West**. This critical role will focus on enhancing mineral processing efficiency, improving recovery rates, and ensuring the quality of final products. The Lead Metallurgist will oversee laboratory and plant operations, troubleshoot complex processing challenges, and drive innovation in metallurgical techniques. Expertise in the metallurgy of gold and associated base metals, particularly within the **North West** region, is highly valued. This position offers a chance to significantly impact operational performance and contribute to the company's strategic growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage metallurgical processes to optimize mineral recovery and product quality.
• Conduct laboratory and pilot-scale test work to evaluate new processing methods and reagents.
• Analyze plant performance data, identify operational bottlenecks, and implement corrective actions.
• Troubleshoot complex metallurgical issues and provide technical guidance to plant operations teams.
• Oversee the design and commissioning of new metallurgical plant equipment and upgrades.
• Ensure compliance with all environmental regulations and safety standards related to metallurgical operations in **Klerksdorp**.
• Manage and mentor a team of metallurgists and technicians, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with R&D, engineering, and operations to drive metallurgical innovation.
• Prepare technical reports, research findings, and recommendations for senior management.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in mineral processing and metallurgy, with significant experience in gold and/or base metal beneficiation.
• Demonstrated expertise in hydrometallurgy and/or pyrometallurgy.
• Proficiency in metallurgical laboratory techniques, process modeling software, and statistical analysis.
• Strong understanding of mineral characterization and its impact on processing.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and leadership skills.
• Effective communication and presentation abilities.
• Experience working in a plant environment in **Klerksdorp, North West**, is essential.
• A proven track record of successful process optimization and innovation.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive salary, performance incentives, comprehensive health coverage, and a strong retirement savings plan.
• Opportunities for professional development, including attendance at international conferences and further education, are available.
• This role is based in **Klerksdorp**, offering a great lifestyle in the **North West** province. The company prides itself on its collaborative and supportive work environment, fostering innovation and career growth. Join a leading organization at the forefront of metallurgical advancements.