Senior Metallurgist - Process Optimization

Placements24; Willows (CA); Hybrid; USD 72,000 - 109,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical benefits

Retirement fund

Professional development

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Senior Metallurgist for a leading mining operation in Welkom, Free State. The role focuses on optimizing mineral processing, improving recovery, and boosting plant efficiency.

You will bring deep metallurgical knowledge and practical experience to drive technical innovation and economic performance across processing facilities. You will lead lab and pilot-scale testing, develop control strategies, and mentor junior staff while ensuring safety and environmental

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 7+ years in metallurgical operations, mining preferred.
• Experience in process optimization, troubleshooting, and scale-up.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and optimize metallurgical processes to improve metal recovery and product quality.
• Conduct lab and pilot-scale tests for new processing technologies.
• Troubleshoot issues, identify root causes, and implement solutions.
• Develop and implement process control strategies for consistent plant performance.
• Monitor data, interpret results, and recommend improvements.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and engineering teams.
• Prepare technical reports and guidelines.
• Ensure safety and environmental compliance in processing.
• Mentor junior metallurgists and stay updated on advancements.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Communication

Teamwork

Independent work

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Metallurgy

Chemical Engineering background

Tools

Metallurgical simulation software

Statistical analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading mining and mineral processing company, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Metallurgist to join their team in Welkom, Free State . This role is focused on optimizing mineral processing operations, improving recovery rates, and enhancing overall plant efficiency. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of various metallurgical processes, chemical engineering principles, and analytical techniques relevant to mineral extraction. You will be instrumental in driving technical innovation and ensuring the economic performance of the processing facilities. This position offers the chance to make a significant impact on plant performance and sustainability.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and optimize existing metallurgical processes to improve metal recovery and product quality.
• Conduct laboratory and pilot-scale test work to evaluate new processing technologies and reagents.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and identify root causes to implement effective solutions.
• Develop and implement process control strategies to ensure consistent plant performance.
• Monitor plant performance data, interpret results, and recommend process improvements.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and engineering teams to implement changes and improvements.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and operational guidelines.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health, and environmental regulations within the processing plant.
• Mentor junior metallurgists and provide technical guidance.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in metallurgy and mineral processing.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in metallurgical operations, preferably within the mining industry.
• Proven experience in process optimization, troubleshooting, and scale-up of metallurgical processes.
• Strong knowledge of mineral processing techniques (e.g., comminution, flotation, leaching, solid-liquid separation).
• Proficiency in metallurgical simulation software and statistical analysis tools.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and data interpretation skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in developing and implementing process improvements.
• Familiarity with safety and environmental regulations in mineral processing.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive salary, comprehensive medical benefits, and a retirement fund.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development, including specialized training and conference participation, are offered.
• Generous annual leave and other benefits are included.
• This role is based in the historically significant mining area of Welkom, Free State , offering a chance to contribute to its ongoing industrial development.
• Our client is committed to fostering a safe and rewarding work environment, with clear pathways for career progression.