Lead Metallurgist - Processing Optimization

Placements24; United States; Hybrid; USD 71,000 - 118,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Life insurance

Provident fund

Professional development

International training

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Lead Metallurgist in the mining sector, based in Tembisa, Gauteng. You will spearhead processing optimization, drive recovery improvements, and lead a team of metallurgists and technicians.

You will apply advanced metallurgical principles, manage budgets, and ensure safety and regulatory compliance while collaborating with R&D and operations teams to deliver high-performance results.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or closely related field.
• At least 10 years of progressive experience in mineral processing, with at least 3 years in a supervisory/leadership role.
• Extensive knowledge of comminution, flotation, leaching, and refining for various minerals.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement advanced metallurgical process strategies to enhance recovery and product quality.
• Lead and mentor a team of metallurgists, technicians, and operators within the processing plant.
• Conduct metallurgical test work, pilot plant trials, and scale-up studies.
• Analyze plant performance data, identify bottlenecks, and implement corrective actions to improve efficiency.
• Oversee commissioning and optimization of new processing equipment and technologies.
• Ensure adherence to safety, health, and environmental regulations within processing facilities.
• Collaborate with R&D teams to explore innovative metallurgical solutions.
• Manage metallurgical budgets and control operational costs.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and present findings to senior management.
• Stay abreast of industry best practices and emerging metallurgical trends.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Team management

Project management

Process control

Education

Master's or PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Tools

METSIM

JKsimMet

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent entity in the Mining industry, is actively recruiting for a Lead Metallurgist to spearhead processing optimization initiatives. This critical role is situated in Tembisa, Gauteng , and involves overseeing the efficiency and effectiveness of mineral processing operations. The Lead Metallurgist will be instrumental in driving innovation, improving recovery rates, and ensuring the cost-effective treatment of various mineral commodities. This position requires a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of metallurgical principles and a proven track record in process improvement. The candidate will lead a team of metallurgists and technicians, fostering a collaborative and high-performance work environment. This is an exceptional career opportunity to make a significant impact on the operational success and profitability of our client's extensive mining ventures. We are looking for a dedicated professional who is passionate about advancing metallurgical science and its application in real-world mining scenarios, contributing directly to the sustainable growth of the sector in Tembisa .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement advanced metallurgical process strategies to enhance recovery and product quality.
• Lead and mentor a team of metallurgists, technicians, and operators within the processing plant.
• Conduct thorough metallurgical test work, pilot plant trials, and scale-up studies.
• Analyze plant performance data, identify bottlenecks, and implement corrective actions to improve efficiency.
• Oversee the commissioning and optimization of new processing equipment and technologies.
• Ensure adherence to all safety, health, and environmental regulations within the processing facilities.
• Collaborate with research and development teams to explore innovative metallurgical solutions.
• Manage metallurgical budgets and control operational costs effectively.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and present findings to senior management.
• Stay abreast of industry best practices and emerging metallurgical trends.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mineral processing, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or leadership role.
• Extensive knowledge of comminution, flotation, leaching, and refining processes for various minerals.
• Proven experience with metallurgical simulation software (e.g., METSIM, JKsimMet).
• Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate technical teams.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, capable of engaging with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience in project management and process control systems is advantageous.
• Ability to travel to various operational sites as required.
• Membership in relevant professional engineering bodies is preferred.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive salary package commensurate with experience, along with comprehensive benefits including medical aid, life insurance, and a generous provident fund.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development, international training, and attendance at leading industry conferences are provided.
• This role offers a dynamic work environment in Tembisa, Gauteng , with a blend of on-site and remote work flexibility, allowing for a healthy work-life balance.
• Relocation assistance may be available for exceptional candidates.
• Enjoy access to excellent facilities and a supportive team culture.