Chief Metallurgist - Extraction Processes

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 2,500,000 - 4,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary package

Bonus potential

Executive medical cover

Retirement provisions

International exposure

Job summary

Placements24 in Kimberley, Northern Cape, South Africa, seeks a Chief Metallurgist to lead extraction process development and optimization in the mining sector. The role requires deep expertise across hydrometallurgy, pyrometallurgy, and mineral processing, and offers strategic leadership over R&D and plant-wide operations.

You will drive innovation, guide metallurgical teams, ensure sustainable recovery and cost efficiency, and maintain health, safety, and regulatory standards while

Qualifications

• Requires MSc/PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Eng.
• 15+ years leadership in metallurgical processing within mining.
• Experience with leaching, smelting, refining, flotation.

Responsibilities

• Lead metallurgical process development, optimization, and operations.
• Oversee R&D for new metallurgical technologies and improvements.
• Mentor metallurgical teams and ensure cost-effective processing.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Data analysis

Communication

Team leadership

Education

MSc in Metallurgy

PhD in Metallurgy

MSc in Chemical Engineering

Job description

About the Role Our client, a globally recognized leader in the mining industry , is actively seeking an exceptional Chief Metallurgist to spearhead their extraction process development and optimization initiatives. Based in Kimberley, Northern Cape, ZA , this pivotal role demands extensive expertise in hydrometallurgy, pyrometallurgy, and mineral processing. You will be responsible for leading research and development efforts, implementing innovative processing technologies, and ensuring the efficient and sustainable recovery of valuable commodities from complex ores. The ideal candidate possesses a strong track record of success in leading metallurgical teams, managing large-scale processing operations, and driving significant improvements in recovery, cost-efficiency, and environmental performance. This position requires visionary leadership, advanced analytical capabilities, and a profound understanding of the entire metallurgical value chain. Your strategic direction will be crucial in maximizing the value of our client's mineral assets and maintaining their competitive edge in the global market. We are seeking a highly experienced and innovative metallurgist to set the technical direction for extraction processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of metallurgical process development, optimization, and operations.
• Develop and implement strategies for efficient and sustainable extraction of target commodities.
• Oversee research and development activities for new metallurgical technologies and process improvements.
• Provide senior technical guidance and mentorship to metallurgical teams.
• Ensure operational efficiency, product quality, and cost-effectiveness across all processing plants.
• Champion the implementation of best practices in metallurgical engineering and process control.
• Manage metallurgical budgets, capital expenditure proposals, and resource allocation.
• Collaborate with geology, mine engineering, and other departments to ensure integrated mine-to-metal strategies.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Represent the company in technical forums and engage with industry stakeholders.

Requirements

• MSc or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership experience in metallurgical processing within the mining industry , with a strong focus on extraction metallurgy.
• Demonstrated expertise in a wide range of metallurgical processes (e.g., leaching, smelting, refining, flotation).
• Proven track record of successfully leading R&D initiatives and implementing new technologies.
• Extensive experience in process modeling, simulation, and data analysis.
• Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and decision-making capabilities.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in managing multi-disciplinary teams and driving performance.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng) or equivalent international accreditation is essential.
• Deep understanding of economic drivers and sustainability considerations in metallurgy.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive executive salary package, significant bonus potential, and comprehensive benefits including executive medical cover and retirement provisions. This role offers the opportunity to lead strategic metallurgical initiatives for a major global mining entity, directly influencing its success and sustainability. Continuous professional development, international exposure, and career advancement opportunities are substantial. You will be part of a dynamic leadership team, driving innovation and operational excellence in the heart of the Northern Cape's rich mineral landscape. This is a premier career opportunity for a seasoned metallurgical leader.