Senior Metallurgy Lead: Process Optimization & Innovation

Placements24; United States; Remote; USD 110,000 - 183,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid and retirement fund

Paid time off

International conferences and training

Career advancement opportunities

Job summary

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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Skills

Mineral processing

Hydrometallurgy

Pyrometallurgy

Process optimization

Mentoring/leadership

Education

Master's degree in Metallurgy

PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Tools

METSIM

HSC Chemistry

Job description

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.