Chief Metallurgist - Remote

Placements24; Klerksdorp; Hybrid; ZAR 2,500,000 - 3,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary package

Fully remote work

Performance-based bonuses

Long-term incentives

Health & travel benefits

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Chief Metallurgist to lead metallurgical operations from a remote setting, driving innovation, optimization and strategic guidance for multiple mining sites. This senior role focuses on efficient mineral recovery, product quality and technical leadership without constant on-site presence.

The ideal candidate will hold a Master’s or PhD in Metallurgy or related field with 10+ years in mineral processing, and will excel at remote team leadership, problem solving and

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive experience in mineral processing and metallurgy.
• Strong track record in process optimization and project management.
• Expertise in metallurgical unit operations and analytical techniques.
• Proven ability to lead remote, site-based teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement metallurgical strategies to optimize recovery and minimize costs.
• Oversee design, commissioning and operation of mineral processing plants and circuits.
• Conduct complex metallurgical test work, analyze results, and provide recommendations.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and improve plant performance and product quality.
• Mentor site-based teams and provide technical leadership.
• Stay current with advancements in metallurgical technology and best practices.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Project management

Metallurgy knowledge

Troubleshooting

Remote team leadership

Communication

Process optimization

Data analysis

Education

Master's or PhD in Metallurgy or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Chief Metallurgist to lead their metallurgical operations from a remote setting. This senior role is pivotal in overseeing the development, optimization, and implementation of all metallurgical processes across various mining sites, ensuring efficient mineral recovery and product quality. You will leverage your extensive expertise to drive innovation, troubleshoot complex processing challenges, and provide strategic guidance to on-site teams, all while working remotely. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned metallurgist to make a significant impact on operational efficiency and metallurgical excellence without the need for constant physical presence at mine sites.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement metallurgical strategies to optimize recovery rates and minimize processing costs.
• Oversee the design, commissioning, and operation of mineral processing plants, including comminution, flotation, leaching, and refining circuits.
• Conduct complex metallurgical test work, analyze results, and provide expert interpretation and recommendations.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and implement effective solutions to improve plant performance and product quality.
• Mentor and guide site-based metallurgical teams, providing technical leadership and support.
• Stay current with advancements in metallurgical technology and best practices, recommending adoption where appropriate.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in mineral processing and metallurgy, with a strong focus on gold, base metals, or PGM recovery.
• Proven track record in process optimization, troubleshooting, and project management.
• Expertise in various metallurgical unit operations and analytical techniques.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to lead remote teams effectively.
• Familiarity with process simulation software is advantageous.

Benefits

• A leading executive-level salary package commensurate with experience.
• Fully remote work arrangement offering unparalleled flexibility.
• Performance-based bonuses and long-term incentive plans.
• Opportunities to influence strategic direction and technological advancement in metallurgy.
• Comprehensive executive benefits including health, travel, and professional development support.