Lead Metallurgist - Mineral Processing

Placements24; United States; Hybrid; USD 73,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package

Medical benefits

Hybrid work

International exposure

Training opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Metallurgist to oversee mineral processing operations near Tembisa, Gauteng. The role requires deep expertise in comminution, flotation, leaching, and related hydrometallurgical processes, guiding a team of metallurgists and technicians to improve plant performance.

The ideal candidate will drive process improvements, ensure high recovery, and lead safety initiatives while collaborating with mine planning and geology teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or closely related discipline.
• 8+ years hands-on experience in mineral processing with at least 3 years in a supervisory role.
• Extensive knowledge of gold, PGMs, or base metals processing techniques.
• Strong understanding of plant operations, process simulation, and data analysis software.
• Proven leadership and ability to manage a team.

Responsibilities

• Lead metallurgical team and provide technical supervision.
• Develop and monitor metallurgical process improvements to enhance recovery and efficiency.
• Conduct root cause analysis for deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Oversee pilot plant and full-scale processing facilities.
• Manage reagent schemes and optimize dosages for cost-effectiveness.
• Interpret metallurgical accounting data and prepare performance reports.
• Collaborate with mine planning and geological teams to optimize resource use.
• Champion SHE safety initiatives within the department.
• Stay updated on industry trends and technology advancements.
• Support design and commissioning of new processing plants or upgrades.

Skills

Leadership

Metallurgy

Mineral processing

Process optimization

Data analysis

Communication

Safety compliance

Education

BSc Metallurgy

Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent force in the South African mining sector , is looking for an accomplished Lead Metallurgist to oversee and optimize their mineral processing operations near Tembisa, Gauteng . This senior role demands a deep expertise in comminution, flotation, leaching, and other hydrometallurgical processes relevant to the extraction of valuable minerals. The successful candidate will be responsible for driving process improvements, ensuring operational efficiency, and maintaining high recovery rates. This position is pivotal in guiding a team of metallurgists and technicians, fostering innovation, and implementing cutting-edge technologies to enhance plant performance. If you are a strategic thinker with a passion for optimizing mineral recovery and leading technical teams, this is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to a significant mining enterprise.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the metallurgical team, providing technical guidance and supervision.
• Develop, implement, and monitor metallurgical process improvements to enhance recovery and efficiency.
• Conduct root cause analysis for process deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Oversee the operation and performance of pilot plant and full-scale processing facilities.
• Manage reagent schemes, optimizing dosages for cost-effectiveness and performance.
• Interpret metallurgical accounting data and provide regular performance reports.
• Collaborate with mine planning and geological teams to ensure effective resource utilization.
• Champion safety initiatives within the metallurgical department, ensuring compliance with all SHE regulations.
• Stay updated on industry trends and advancements in mineral processing technology.
• Contribute to the design and commissioning of new processing plants or upgrades.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science or Engineering degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• A minimum of 8 years of hands‑on experience in mineral processing, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or lead role.
• Extensive knowledge of gold, platinum group metals (PGM), or base metal processing techniques.
• Strong understanding of plant operations, process simulation, and data analysis software.
• Demonstrated experience in process optimization and troubleshooting in a mining environment .
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem‑solving abilities.
• Familiarity with safety protocols and environmental regulations in the Gauteng region.
• Ability to work effectively in a challenging, fast‑paced operational setting.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, commensurate with experience and qualifications, including performance‑based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits are provided.
• This role includes a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for a balance between on‑site operational oversight and off‑site strategic planning and analysis.
• Opportunities for international exposure and professional development through training and conferences are available.
• The position is based in a strategic location near Tembisa , facilitating access to key operational sites.
• Join a forward-thinking company that values innovation and employee growth within the vibrant South African mining industry .