Chief Metallurgist - Processing Plant

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonuses

Private medical cover

Retirement annuity fund

Generous leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Chief Metallurgist to lead its state-of-the-art processing plant in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This senior role focuses on optimizing mineral processing, maximizing metal recovery, and ensuring safe, cost-effective operations.

The successful candidate will drive R&D initiatives, mentor a team of metallurgical engineers and technicians, manage budgets, and collaborate with mine operations to align plant performance with strategic objectives.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in mineral processing, with at least 5 years in a senior metallurgical role.
• Extensive experience with various ore types and processing methodologies relevant to the SA context.
• Proficiency in metallurgical simulation software and data analysis tools.
• Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and optimize all aspects of the mineral processing plant, including comminution, flotation, leaching, and refining.
• Lead and mentor the metallurgical team, providing technical guidance and performance management.
• Monitor plant performance data, identify areas for improvement, and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards in plant operations.
• Collaborate with mine operations and engineering departments to align strategies across the value chain.

Skills

Metallurgy expertise

Leadership

Budget management

Data analysis

Education

MSc/PhD Metallurgy

Tools

METSIM

Outotec HSC Chemistry

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent force in the Mining sector, is seeking an experienced and innovative Chief Metallurgist to lead their state-of-the-art processing plant operations in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This senior role is responsible for optimizing metallurgical processes to maximize metal recovery and product quality while ensuring operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The Chief Metallurgist will provide technical leadership, drive research and development initiatives, and oversee a team of metallurgical engineers and technicians. This position offers a significant opportunity to influence process design, troubleshoot complex challenges, and implement best practices in a technologically advanced facility. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of various metallurgical techniques and a proven ability to enhance plant performance. You will be instrumental in maintaining our client's competitive edge in the global market.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and optimize all aspects of the mineral processing plant, including comminution, flotation, leaching, and refining.
• Develop and implement metallurgical test work programs to improve recovery and product grade.
• Lead and mentor the metallurgical team, providing technical guidance and performance management.
• Monitor plant performance data, identify areas for improvement, and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental standards in plant operations.
• Collaborate with mine operations and engineering departments to ensure integrated mine-to-market strategies.
• Manage operational budgets for the metallurgical department and control processing costs.
• Stay abreast of new metallurgical technologies and assess their applicability to plant operations.
• Prepare technical reports, process documentation, and presentations for management and stakeholders.
• Drive initiatives for continuous improvement in process efficiency, energy consumption, and waste management.

Requirements

• MSc or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in mineral processing, with at least 5 years in a senior metallurgical role.
• Extensive experience with various ore types and processing methodologies relevant to the South African context.
• Proficiency in metallurgical simulation software (e.g., METSIM, Outotec HSC Chemistry) and data analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of chemical principles, thermodynamics, and kinetics in metallurgical processes.
• Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Experience managing operational budgets and driving cost-reduction initiatives.
• Knowledge of environmental regulations and sustainable processing practices.
• Ability to analyze complex technical data and translate it into actionable strategies.
• Demonstrated experience in R&D and process optimization projects.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, commensurate with the seniority of the role, including annual bonuses and potential long-term equity options.
• Comprehensive benefits include premium private medical cover, a robust retirement annuity fund, and substantial paid time off.
• This role provides exceptional opportunities for professional growth, including exposure to international best practices and leadership development programs.
• The position is based in the vibrant coastal city of Durban , offering a desirable lifestyle.
• Our client is committed to fostering an inclusive and innovative work environment where employees are valued and empowered.