Senior Metallurgist — Hybrid Lab & Pilot Plant Lead

Placements24; Willows (CA); Hybrid; USD 73,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Pension fund

Bonuses

Professional development

Lab equipment access

Leave & holidays

Conferences attendance

Career growth

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Metallurgist to join the client’s process development team in Welkom, Free State. You will conduct laboratory and pilot-scale tests, develop flowsheets, and optimize metallurgical processes to improve recovery and product quality.

Lead laboratory work, analyze data, and collaborate with operations and engineering. The role offers a hybrid model with on-site engagement and opportunities for professional growth.

Qualifications

• BSc or BEng in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in extractive metallurgy, process development, or plant operations in mining.
• Strong knowledge of mineral processing techniques (comminution, flotation, leaching, solid-liquid separation).
• Proven experience with laboratory testing, pilot plant operations, and data analysis.
• Proficiency in metallurgical simulation software (METSIM, HSC Chemistry) is advantageous.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and independently.
• Familiarity with safety protocols and environmental regulations in mining.
• Willingness to travel occasionally to mine sites near Welkom, Free State.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute laboratory and pilot plant test programs to evaluate and optimize metallurgical processes.
• Analyze metallurgical data, interpret results, and develop recommendations for process improvements.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and provide technical support to processing plants.
• Develop process flowsheets and mass/energy balances for new or modified plants.
• Conduct literature reviews and research on new metallurgical technologies.
• Collaborate with research, operations, and equipment vendors.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and feasibility studies.
• Contribute to process safety reviews and risk assessments.
• Ensure activities meet safety, health, and environmental standards at Welkom, Free State.
• Mentor junior metallurgists and technicians.

Skills

Metallurgy

Process development

Data analysis

Problem solving

Communication

Teamwork

Education

BSc or BEng in Metallurgy or Chemical Eng

Tools

METSIM

HSC Chemistry

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Metallurgist to join the client’s process development team in Welkom, Free State. You will conduct laboratory and pilot-scale tests, develop flowsheets, and optimize metallurgical processes to improve recovery and product quality.

Lead laboratory work, analyze data, and collaborate with operations and engineering. The role offers a hybrid model with on-site engagement and opportunities for professional growth.