Hybrid Lead Metallurgist — Mineral Processing

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement benefits

Performance-based bonuses

Professional development

International exposure

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Metallurgist for a prominent mining client based in Cape Town, Western Cape. You will oversee mineral processing operations, drive recovery improvements, and ensure safety and environmental compliance while leading a team of metallurgists and technicians.

The role requires a MSc/PhD preferred, 10+ years of experience, and expertise in comminution, flotation, leaching, plus familiarity with METSIM and JKSimFloat.

Qualifications

• BSc or BEng in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field; MSc or PhD preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in metallurgical processing within the mining industry.
• Demonstrated expertise in metallurgical treatment of base metals, precious metals, or industrial minerals.
• Proven track record of leading successful process optimization initiatives and plant turnarounds.
• Strong knowledge of metallurgical accounting, quality control, and laboratory procedures.
• Proficiency in metallurgical simulation software such as METSIM and JKSimFloat.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment with site visits.
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng) or equivalent is an advantage.
• Commitment to sustainable mining practices and environmental stewardship.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all mineral processing operations, including comminution, concentration, and refining.
• Develop and implement strategies to optimize plant performance, increase recovery rates, and reduce costs.
• Conduct detailed metallurgical test work and pilot plant studies to evaluate new processes and technologies.
• Analyze process data, identify trends, and implement corrective actions to maintain optimal performance.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Supervise, mentor, and develop a team of metallurgists and plant operators.
• Collaborate with geological, engineering, and maintenance teams for integrated planning.
• Prepare metallurgical reports, feasibility studies, and production forecasts.
• Stay abreast of advancements in metallurgical science relevant to mining.

Skills

Leadership

Data analysis

Strategic thinking

Communication

Problem solving

Education

BSc/BEng in Metallurgy

MSc or PhD preferred

Tools

METSIM

JKSimFloat

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Metallurgist for a prominent mining client based in Cape Town, Western Cape. You will oversee mineral processing operations, drive recovery improvements, and ensure safety and environmental compliance while leading a team of metallurgists and technicians.

The role requires a MSc/PhD preferred, 10+ years of experience, and expertise in comminution, flotation, leaching, plus familiarity with METSIM and JKSimFloat.