Chemical Process Engineer - Mining and Minerals

Placements24; Randfontein; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Rustenburg, SA, seeks a Chemical Process Engineer for on-site mineral beneficiation and extraction projects. You will optimize chemical processes, run simulations, and contribute to continuous improvement in a demanding industrial setting.

The role requires a chemical engineering degree and 5+ years in mining/minerals processing, with strong knowledge of hydrometallurgy, pyrometallurgy or flotation.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering required.
• 5+ years of process engineering experience in mining/minerals processing.
• Strong knowledge of hydrometallurgy, pyrometallurgy or flotation.
• Experience with process simulation software (MetSim, HSC Chemistry, Aspen Plus).
• Familiarity with P&ID and PFD development and safety/compliance.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement and optimize chemical processes for mineral beneficiation and extraction.
• Conduct feasibility studies, simulations and pilot plant trials for new tech.
• Develop and maintain PFDs and P&IDs.
• Analyze chemical/physical properties relevant to mineral processing.
• Monitor operations, analyze data and identify efficiency gains.
• Troubleshoot upsets and minimize downtime and product loss.
• Ensure safety, health and environmental compliance.
• Collaborate with metallurgists, geologists and operations staff.
• Prepare technical reports and project documentation.
• Support commissioning and start-up of new equipment and plants.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the mining and minerals processing sector, is seeking a dedicated Chemical Process Engineer to join their established operations in Rustenburg, North West . This is an on-site position requiring a hands-on approach to optimizing and troubleshooting chemical processes critical to mineral extraction and refinement. The role is integral to enhancing efficiency, ensuring product quality, and maintaining stringent environmental compliance. The successful candidate will be involved in the entire lifecycle of process development and improvement, from conceptual design to operational execution. This opportunity is ideal for an engineer who thrives in a demanding industrial environment and is passionate about applying chemical engineering principles to solve complex challenges in resource extraction. You will work within a supportive team environment that prioritizes safety, professional development, and operational excellence. Our client is committed to fostering a long-term career path for its employees, providing opportunities for growth and advancement within its extensive operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize chemical processes for mineral beneficiation and extraction.
• Conduct feasibility studies, process simulations, and pilot plant trials to evaluate new technologies and process modifications.
• Develop and maintain Process Flow Diagrams (PFDs) and Piping & Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs).
• Perform detailed chemical and physical property analysis relevant to mineral processing.
• Monitor plant operations, analyze performance data, and identify opportunities for efficiency improvements.
• Troubleshoot process upsets and implement corrective actions to minimize downtime and product loss.
• Ensure adherence to all safety, health, and environmental regulations and company policies.
• Collaborate with metallurgists, geologists, and operations personnel to achieve process goals.
• Prepare technical reports, operational manuals, and project documentation.
• Support the commissioning and start-up of new process equipment and plants.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in process engineering, specifically within the mining or minerals processing industry.
• Strong understanding of hydrometallurgy, pyrometallurgy, and/or flotation processes.
• Proficiency with process simulation software (e.g., MetSim, HSC Chemistry, Aspen Plus).
• Experience with P&ID development and PFD creation.
• Knowledge of analytical techniques and laboratory procedures related to mineral processing.
• Familiarity with safety protocols and environmental regulations in the mining sector.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team in an industrial setting.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence.
• Experience with process control systems is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive salary package, including medical aid, a provident fund, and performance-based incentives.
• Opportunities for professional development, including further training and conference participation, are readily available.
• The company offers a stable and secure working environment within a well-established industry leader.
• Employees benefit from subsidized housing and transport options, and the chance to work on significant projects that contribute to the resource sector's growth.
• Enjoy the satisfaction of applying your engineering expertise in a practical, results-driven setting in Rustenburg , contributing directly to operational success.