Chief Engineer - Pyrometallurgy

Mintek Pty Ltd.; Randburg; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research and development organization is looking for a Chief Engineer to conduct pyrometallurgy research and provide technical leadership. The successful candidate will have at least 10 years of experience, a PhD in a relevant field, and will be involved in driving innovative R&D projects at an international level. Strong skills in project management and collaboration are essential for this role that contributes to both human capital development and commercialisation of technologies.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years’ experience in pyrometallurgy research and/or technology development.
• Experience in designing and operating pilot and/or industrial scale electric arc furnaces.
• A strong portfolio of publications in peer-reviewed ISI-rated journals.

Responsibilities

• Conduct fundamental and applied research in pyrometallurgy.
• Drive high impact RDI programmes and commercial projects.
• Provide expert support in planning and managing pilot scale demonstration projects.

Skills

Pyrometallurgy research

Technical leadership

Project management

Interpersonal skills

Writing and presentation skills

team mentoring

Education

PhD in Metallurgical/Chemical/Process/Mechanical/Electrical Engineering

Tools

HSC Chemistry™

FactSage™

Job description

Mintek has an exciting vacancy for a Chief Engineer to conduct fundamental and applied research in pyrometallurgy. The successful candidate will provide specialist support in the development, demonstration and commercialisation of products and services developed by Mintek. Contributing to human capital development and willingness to work towards a common purpose, with a strong sense of equity and inclusion, are non-negotiable attributes of the role.

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

• Perform the total scope of work in the Division, including business development, applied research and technology development, technology transfer and commercialisation.
• Provide technical leadership in driving high impact RDI programmes, commercial projects, contract research and funding strategies to drive productivity and ensure the financial sustainability of the Division.
• Provide technical leadership in formulating and executing disciplinary and multi-disciplinary assignments that require integration of specialist knowledge and skills, and function as the key technical resource in the Division.
• Providing expert and specialist support in the planning, demonstration, and managing complex pilot scale demonstration projects.
• Develop and write proposals for new R&D projects to drive the establishment and sustenance of world-class RDI infrastructure, research programmes, and human capital capacity at Mintek.
• Providing full administrative support to the Division, including managing and coordinating procurement processes for RDI infrastructure projects.
• Contribute to human capital development through coaching and mentoring, including providing postgraduate supervision where necessary.
• Contribute to the visibility and credibility of the Division through building and sustaining long-term collaborations with industrial and academic partners, both locally and globally.
• Provide disciplinary and multi-disciplinary assessment and guidance on strategic, governance and operational risks affecting the Division.

JOB KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE

• Minimum 10 years’ experience in pyrometallurgy research and/or technology development.
• Experience in designing and operating pilot and/or industrial scale electric arc furnaces.
• Strong pyrometallurgical testwork planning and execution capabilities, with the ability to develop bespoke experimental techniques, models and prototypes from first principles up to pilot scale demonstration.
• Strong fundamental understanding of refractory materials properties and their integration in furnace design philosophy.
• Demonstrable ability to conceptualize and manage complex RDI projects and take ideas from concept to market.
• Experience in designing pyrometallurgical processes and flowsheets using thermochemical software tools such as HSC Chemistry™ and FactSage™.
• A strong portfolio of publications in peer-reviewed ISI-rated journals
• Demonstrated ability to attract industry and/or bilateral research funding is highly advantageous.

QUALIFICATIONS

• A minimum PhD in Metallurgical/Chemical/Process/Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, or equivalent, with a strong focus on pyrometallurgy research and/or technology development.
• Professional registration is an added advantage.
• Experience with postgraduate supervision is an added advantage.

BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES

• Team player who enjoys variety and has a strong affinity for planning and executing new and high impact research.
• Passion for research, technology development, and technology transfer.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work in a stressful and demanding environment
• Willing to travel locally and internationally
• Prepared to work shifts in hot and dusty plant environments when required
• Ability to independently engage with industry leaders, operators and high level international stakeholders
• Excellent writing and presentation skills