Chief Metallurgist - Mineral Processing

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 2,500,000 - 4,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level salary

Company car and fuel allowance

Private healthcare

Retirement plan

International travel

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a distinguished Chief Metallurgist to lead mineral processing operations in Durban. The role directs all metallurgical stages—from comminution to refining—ensuring maximum metal recovery and top product quality.

You will drive process development, troubleshooting, and sustainable plant performance in a hybrid work setting. The position demands 10+ years in mineral processing with leadership, strong metals processing expertise, and a track record of scale-up success across

Qualifications

• PhD or Master's degree in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering.
• 10+ years in mineral processing/metallurgy with leadership experience.
• Expertise in base metals (copper, zinc, nickel) and precious metals processing.
• Strong background in process optimization, scale‑up, and troubleshooting.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize metallurgical processes to improve recovery and product purity.
• Lead and mentor the metallurgical team, fostering continuous improvement.
• Oversee design, commissioning, and operation of new metallurgical plants and equipment.
• Conduct audits and root-cause analyses for deviations or quality issues.
• Collaborate with R&D on pilot studies and scale-up of new technologies.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Metallurgy

Process optimization

Pilot plant operations

Education

PhD in Metallurgy

Master's in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Laboratory analysis

Pilot plant oversight

Job description

About the Role

Our client seeks a distinguished Chief Metallurgist to lead their mineral processing operations in Durban. This senior position is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the metallurgical process, from comminution and flotation to refining, ensuring maximum metal recovery and product quality. You will drive innovation in process development, troubleshoot complex operational challenges, and ensure the efficient and sustainable operation of their processing plants. This role requires a blend of technical expertise, leadership acumen, and a commitment to operational excellence, working both on-site and remotely to manage diverse metallurgical functions.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimize metallurgical processes to enhance recovery rates and product purity.
• Manage and mentor the metallurgical team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and technical proficiency.
• Oversee the design, commissioning, and operation of new metallurgical plants and equipment.
• Conduct regular process audits and root cause analysis for operational deviations or quality issues.
• Collaborate with research and development teams on pilot studies and scale‑up of new technologies.
• Ensure adherence to all environmental, health, and safety regulations within the processing facilities.

Requirements

• PhD or Master's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in mineral processing and metallurgy, with significant leadership experience.
• Expertise in base metals (e.g., copper, zinc, nickel) and precious metals processing techniques.
• Proven track record in process optimization, scale‑up, and troubleshooting complex metallurgical challenges.
• Strong understanding of laboratory analysis, pilot plant operations, and full‑scale plant management.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and project management skills, with experience in hybrid work environments.

Benefits

• Executive‑level salary and comprehensive bonus structure.
• Company car and fuel allowance.
• Private healthcare and generous retirement plan.
• Opportunities for international travel and conference attendance.
• A challenging yet rewarding role contributing to the advancement of mining technology in Durban.