Principal Metallurgist - Process Optimization

Placements24; United States; À distance; USD 110 000 - 183 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Competitive salary

Medical aid and retirement fund

Paid time off

International conferences and training

Career advancement opportunities

Résumé du poste

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Metallurgist to lead process optimization across mining operations in Gauteng. The role requires directing metallurgical strategies, troubleshooting complex plant issues, and mentoring a team of professionals.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years in mineral processing, with emphasis on hydrometallurgy or pyrometallurgy, and strong skills in process simulation and data analysis.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Metallurgy or related field.
• 10+ years hands-on mineral processing experience with hydrometallurgy/pyrometallurgy.
• Proven success in process optimization and debottlenecking in plant environments.
• Expertise in analytical techniques and metallurgical accounting.
• Ability to lead and manage complex projects end-to-end.
• Familiarity with METSIM, HSC Chemistry and process simulation.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and leadership skills.

Responsabilités

• Lead metallurgical test programs to optimize processes and evaluate new technologies.
• Analyze plant data to improve recovery, grade, and cost efficiency.
• Provide expert metallurgical advice to operations and engineering teams.
• Design and run pilot plant studies and full-scale modifications.
• Develop robust quality control procedures to ensure specifications.
• Mentor junior metallurgists and technicians.
• Collaborate with R&D, environmental, and operations teams on sustainable solutions.

Connaissances

Mineral processing

Hydrometallurgy

Pyrometallurgy

Process optimization

Mentoring/leadership

Formation

Master's degree in Metallurgy

PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Outils

METSIM

HSC Chemistry

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished mining corporation with extensive operations in South Africa, is actively recruiting for a Principal Metallurgist to lead their process optimization initiatives in Tembisa, Gauteng. This senior position is pivotal in driving improvements in mineral processing efficiency, recovery rates, and product quality across various commodities. The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and implementing innovative metallurgical strategies, troubleshooting complex process issues, and mentoring a team of metallurgists and technicians. This role demands a strategic thinker with a proven track record in enhancing plant performance and reducing operational costs. You will play a key role in shaping the future of our client's processing facilities, ensuring they remain at the forefront of metallurgical science and operational excellence. The role requires a blend of hands-on expertise and strategic vision to tackle the evolving challenges in mineral processing. Our client is dedicated to sustainability and responsible resource management.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of metallurgical test programs to optimize existing processes and evaluate new technologies.
• Analyze plant operational data to identify areas for improvement in recovery, grade, and cost efficiency.
• Provide expert metallurgical advice and troubleshooting support to plant operations and engineering teams.
• Design and commission pilot plant studies and full-scale process modifications.
• Develop and implement robust quality control procedures to ensure product specifications are consistently met.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in mineral processing technology and implement relevant innovations.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, including feasibility studies, process descriptions, and operational performance reviews.
• Mentor and guide junior metallurgists, engineers, and plant operators, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
• Collaborate with R&D, environmental, and operational teams to ensure metallurgical solutions are sustainable and compliant.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of hands-on experience in mineral processing, with a strong emphasis on hydrometallurgy and/or pyrometallurgy.
• Demonstrated success in process optimization, debottlenecking, and efficiency improvements in a plant environment.
• Expertise in various analytical techniques and metallurgical accounting.
• Proven ability to lead and manage complex projects from concept to completion.
• Strong understanding of process simulation software (e.g., METSIM, HSC Chemistry).
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing remote analysis with on-site plant engagement in Tembisa, Gauteng.
• Professional registration (e.g., ECSA) is a significant asset.

Benefits

• This position comes with a highly competitive salary and performance-based bonus structure.
• Our client provides an excellent benefits package, including comprehensive medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and paid time off.
• Opportunities for international travel and professional development, including attendance at leading industry conferences, are readily available.
• Our client invests in its people, offering advanced training programs and career advancement pathways.
• The role is based in the bustling region of Gauteng, offering a strategic location for both professional engagement and personal lifestyle.
• We are committed to fostering an inclusive and innovative work culture, promoting work-life balance and employee well-being.