Chief Metallurgist - Base Metals Processing

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 2,400,000 - 4,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical scheme

Life insurance

Pension fund

Relocation assistance

Housing support

Career progression and international</

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Chief Metallurgist to lead processing operations in Rustenburg, North West. You will oversee all metallurgical activities from plant design to R&D, driving innovation, safety, and sustainability while maximizing metal recovery and product quality.

You will lead a skilled team, collaborate with engineers and geologists, manage the metallurgical budget, and ensure compliance with regulations in a high-stakes mining environment.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering or related field.
• 12+ years of progressive metallurgical processing experience, with leadership roles.
• Expertise in processing base metals (Cu, Ni, Zn, PGMs).
• Strong knowledge of mineral processing including comminution, flotation, hydrometallurgy.
• Experience with process simulation software METSIM / HSC Chemistry.
• Proven ability in process optimization, troubleshooting, and R&D.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Safety and environmental management systems knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all metallurgical operations (crushing, grinding, flotation, leaching, refining).
• Develop and optimize metallurgical processes to improve recovery and product quality.
• Oversee process control systems and plant efficiency within design parameters.
• Conduct metallurgical test work and pilot studies for new technologies.
• Troubleshoot operational problems to minimize downtime and maximize efficiency.
• Ensure adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Metallurgy expertise

Process optimization

Troubleshooting

Communication

Safety management

Project management

Education

Master's or PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Tools

METSIM

Outotec HSC Chemistry

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant player in the base metals mining sector , is seeking an accomplished and visionary Chief Metallurgist to lead their processing operations in Rustenburg, North West . This pivotal role involves overseeing all aspects of metallurgical operations, from plant design and optimization to process control and R&D. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring efficient, safe, and environmentally compliant processing of ore, maximizing metal recovery and product quality. You will leverage your extensive expertise in metallurgy and process engineering to drive innovation, troubleshoot complex operational issues, and contribute to the company's strategic goals. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned metallurgist to take on a leadership position within a major mining hub, driving operational excellence and setting new benchmarks in metal processing. Our client is dedicated to adopting advanced technologies and sustainable practices, making this a forward-thinking and impactful role in the heart of South Africa's mining landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all metallurgical operations, including crushing, grinding, flotation, leaching, and refining.
• Develop, implement, and optimize metallurgical processes to enhance recovery rates and product quality.
• Oversee process control systems and ensure efficient plant operation within design parameters.
• Conduct metallurgical test work and pilot plant studies to evaluate new technologies and process improvements.
• Troubleshoot operational problems and implement effective solutions to minimize downtime and maximize efficiency.
• Ensure strict adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations in all metallurgical activities.
• Manage the metallurgical budget, including operational costs and capital expenditure.
• Lead and mentor the metallurgical team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and technical excellence.
• Collaborate with geologists, engineers, and management to align metallurgical strategies with overall mine objectives.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in metallurgical science and technology.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in metallurgical processing, with a significant portion in leadership roles.
• Proven expertise in the processing of base metals (e.g., copper, nickel, zinc, platinum group metals).
• Strong knowledge of mineral processing techniques, including comminution, flotation, and hydrometallurgy.
• Experience with process simulation software (e.g., METSIM, Outotec HSC Chemistry).
• Demonstrated ability in process optimization, troubleshooting, and R&D.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Strong understanding of safety and environmental management systems.
• Ability to work effectively in a complex operational environment in Rustenburg, North West .
• Professional registration with a relevant industry body is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Highly competitive executive salary package, including performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical scheme, life insurance, and pension fund.
• Relocation assistance and potential for subsidized housing.
• Significant opportunities for career progression and international assignments.
• Access to advanced training programs and professional development.
• Key leadership role with strategic influence on company operations.
• A stimulating work environment with a focus on innovation and sustainability.
• Contribution to critical resource development in a major mining region.
• Company vehicle and travel allowances.
• Emphasis on work-life balance and employee well-being.