Senior Process Controller - Mineral Processing

Placements24; Windsor Park (TN); On-site; USD 54,000 - 73,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package and shift allowances

Medical aid and retirement fund

Training and career advancement

Job summary

Our client is a major mining operation in East London, Eastern Cape, seeking a Senior Process Controller to optimize metallurgical processes and improve plant performance. The role involves monitoring process parameters, troubleshooting issues, and driving safety and efficiency in a hands-on, on-site environment.

The ideal candidate holds a National Certificate or Diploma in Mineral Processing or related field with 5+ years experience in a mineral processing plant, especially flotation circuits.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience as a Process Controller or Operator in a mineral processing plant.
• Experience with flotation circuits and related reagents is essential.
• Familiarity with process control systems and instrumentation.
• Strong understanding of metallurgical principles and process variables.
• Excellent observational skills and ability to work under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor mineral processing circuits (crushing, milling, flotation, thickening, filtration).
• Adjust process parameters to optimize recovery, grade, and throughput.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and implement timely solutions.
• Maintain process logs and shift reports.
• Ensure adherence to safety procedures and environmental regulations.
• Calibrate and maintain process control instrumentation as required.
• Collaborate with metallurgists and engineers on process improvements.
• Assist in training junior operators and participate in safety meetings.

Skills

Flotation circuits

DCS familiarity

PLC knowledge

Metallurgical principles

Education

National Certificate or Diploma in Mineral Processing / Extractive Metallurgy / Chemical Engineering

Tools

DCS

PLC

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant mining operation located in East London, Eastern Cape, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Process Controller to join their mineral processing plant. This role is essential for the day-to-day operation and optimization of the plant's metallurgical processes, ensuring efficient recovery of valuable minerals. The Senior Process Controller will monitor and adjust process parameters, troubleshoot operational issues, and contribute to improving plant performance in terms of recovery, throughput, and cost-effectiveness.

The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of mineral processing circuits, including crushing, grinding, flotation, and dewatering, as well as experience with process control systems and instrumentation. This is an on‑site position, offering a hands‑on opportunity within a dynamic operational environment. We are committed to maintaining high operational standards and promoting a culture of continuous improvement. Your expertise will directly impact the plant's productivity and profitability.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor various mineral processing plant circuits (e.g., crushing, milling, flotation, thickening, filtration).
• Adjust process parameters to optimize mineral recovery, concentrate grade, and throughput.
• Identify and troubleshoot operational issues, implementing timely and effective solutions.
• Maintain process logs, records, and prepare shift reports.
• Ensure adherence to safety procedures and environmental regulations.
• Perform regular checks on plant equipment and instrumentation, reporting any malfunctions.
• Calibrate and maintain process control instrumentation as required.
• Collaborate with metallurgists and engineers to implement process improvements.
• Assist in training and mentoring junior operators.
• Participate in safety meetings and contribute to a positive safety culture.

Requirements

• A National Certificate or Diploma in Mineral Processing, Extractive Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Process Controller or Operator in a mineral processing plant.
• Proven experience with flotation circuits and associated reagents is essential.
• Familiarity with Distributed Control Systems (DCS) and Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC).
• Strong understanding of metallurgical principles and process variables.
• Excellent observational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and make sound decisions.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Must be physically fit and able to work shifts, including weekends and holidays.
• A strong commitment to safety and environmental responsibility.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, shift allowances, and comprehensive benefits including medical aid, retirement fund, and opportunities for further training and career advancement within the processing department.
• This full‑time position provides a stable working environment within a reputable mining operation in East London.
• We foster a culture of teamwork, safety, and operational excellence. Join our dedicated team and play a key role in optimizing our mineral processing operations.