Chief Metallurgist

Placements24; South Africa; Sur place; ZAR 2 000 000 - 3 500 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Annual bonus

Medical aid

Provident fund

Annual leave

Training & development

Résumé du poste

Placements24 is seeking a Chief Metallurgist to lead the mineral processing and metallurgical operations in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. You will drive innovation, optimize recovery, and ensure safe, sustainable plant performance.

The role requires 15+ years in metallurgy with senior leadership experience, expertise in hydrometallurgy or pyrometallurgy, and strong team leadership. On-site requirement in Queenstown with a focus on continuous improvement and compliance.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 15 years in mineral processing and metallurgy with 5+ years in senior leadership.
• Experience in hydrometallurgy, pyrometallurgy, or beneficiation of minerals.
• Laboratory, pilot plant and full-scale plant management experience.
• Strong knowledge of process simulation and data analysis tools.

Responsabilités

• Oversee all mineral processing and metallurgical operations on site.
• Develop and optimize flowsheets and processing strategies.
• Lead metallurgical test work and pilot plant trials for improvements.
• Troubleshoot and optimize plant performance and recovery.
• Mentor and manage a team of metallurgists, technicians and operators.
• Oversee metallurgical budgeting and cost-effective operations.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with geology, engineering and operations teams.
• Monitor KPIs and report metallurgical performance and efficiency.
• Stay updated on new metallurgical technologies and best practices.

Connaissances

Leadership

Team management

Problem-solving

Analytical thinking

Decision-making

Communication

Interpersonal skills

HSE

Formation

Master's or PhD in Metallurgy/ Chemical Engineering

Outils

METSIM

HSC Chemistry

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly accomplished and visionary Chief Metallurgist to lead their advanced metallurgical operations in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. This is a critical on-site position responsible for overseeing all aspects of mineral processing, from pilot plant operations to full-scale production. The Chief Metallurgist will drive innovation, optimize recovery processes, and ensure the efficient and sustainable treatment of various mineral commodities. This role requires a deep understanding of mineral processing techniques, chemical engineering principles, and extensive experience in managing complex laboratory and plant environments. You will be instrumental in improving operational performance, reducing costs, and maintaining the highest standards of quality and safety. The ideal candidate is a seasoned professional with a strong track record in process development, troubleshooting, and team leadership within the mining industry. This is an opportunity to make a significant impact on a key player in the Eastern Cape mining sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all mineral processing and metallurgical operations.
• Develop, implement, and optimize mineral processing flowsheet and strategies.
• Conduct metallurgical test work and pilot plant trials to evaluate new processes and improve existing ones.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex processing issues to ensure optimal plant performance and recovery.
• Manage and mentor a team of metallurgists, technicians, and operators.
• Develop and manage the metallurgical budget, ensuring cost-effective operations.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with geology, engineering, and operations teams to achieve production targets.
• Monitor key performance indicators and prepare regular reports on metallurgical performance and plant efficiency.
• Stay abreast of new metallurgical technologies and industry best practices.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in mineral processing and metallurgy, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven expertise in hydrometallurgy, pyrometallurgy, or mineral beneficiation, relevant to (specific mineral types).
• Extensive experience with laboratory analysis, pilot plant operations, and full-scale plant management.
• Strong knowledge of process simulation software (e.g., METSIM, HSC Chemistry) and data analysis tools.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Commitment to health, safety, and environmental best practices.
• Must be able to reside and work full-time in Queenstown, Eastern Cape.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive remuneration package, including a substantial annual bonus, comprehensive medical aid and provident fund benefits, and generous annual leave.
• Opportunities for international training and conferences are available for professional development.
• This role provides the chance to lead a critical function within a significant mining operation, offering substantial career growth and the satisfaction of contributing to the success of a vital industry in the Eastern Cape.