Senior Metallurgist - Process Development

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

About the Role

Our client, a major mining corporation, is seeking a highly qualified Senior Metallurgist to join their innovative process development team in Welkom, Free State. This role is central to enhancing and optimizing metallurgical processes for various mineral commodities. The successful candidate will be instrumental in laboratory‑scale test work, pilot plant operations, and the implementation of new processing technologies aimed at improving recovery rates and product quality. This position offers a fantastic opportunity to work with cutting‑edge technology and contribute to significant operational improvements in a key mining region. We are looking for an individual with a strong theoretical foundation in extractive metallurgy coupled with practical experience in process troubleshooting and optimization. The role requires close collaboration with operations, research, and engineering departments to ensure seamless integration of developed processes. Our client is committed to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth, making this an exciting prospect for an ambitious metallurgist looking to make a substantial impact in the Welkom, Free State area. The hybrid work model allows for flexibility while maintaining essential on‑site engagement.

Key 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 metallurgical plants.


• Conduct literature reviews and research on new metallurgical technologies and methodologies.


• Collaborate with research and development teams, operations personnel, and equipment vendors.


• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and feasibility studies.


• Contribute to process safety reviews and risk assessments.


• Ensure metallurgical activities are conducted in compliance with safety, health, and environmental standards in Welkom, Free State.


• Mentor junior metallurgists and technicians, fostering a culture of technical excellence.

Requirements

• 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 within the mining industry.


• Strong knowledge of mineral processing techniques (e.g., comminution, flotation, leaching, solid‑liquid separation).


• Proven experience with laboratory testing, pilot plant operations, and data analysis.


• Proficiency in metallurgical simulation software (e.g., 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 the mining sector.


• Willingness to travel occasionally to mine sites and collaborate with operations teams near Welkom, Free State.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.


• Comprehensive medical aid coverage.


• Pension fund with company contributions.


• Performance‑related bonuses.


• Opportunities for professional development and advanced training.


• Access to modern laboratory facilities and pilot plant equipment.


• A dynamic and collaborative work environment.


• Paid leave and statutory holidays.


• Support for attending industry conferences and seminars.


• Career growth prospects within a leading mining organization.