Hybrid Lead Metallurgist – Mineral Processing & Innovation

Placements24; South Africa; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration package

Medical aid and retirement fund

Professional development opportunities

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Metallurgist in Gauteng to optimize mineral extraction, oversee lab and pilot plant work, and lead a team of metallurgists and technicians in a hybrid on-site/remote setting. The role focuses on flotation, cyanidation, solvent extraction, and electrowinning, with safety and environmental stewardship at the forefront.

The successful candidate will drive innovation in extraction methodologies, improve process efficiency and yields, and collaborate with mine planning and

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 10+ years in metallurgical process development and operation, with 3+ years in a lead role.
• Proven track record in base metals or precious metals extraction (flotation, cyanidation, solvent extraction, electrowinning).
• Strong understanding of mineralogy and its impact on metallurgical performance.
• Proficiency in METSIM and HSC Chemistry, plus data analysis tools.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in a hybrid environment; willingness to travel to mine sites.
• Commitment to safety and environmental stewardship.

Responsibilities

• Lead development, optimization, and implementation of mineral extraction processes.
• Oversee laboratory and pilot plant testing to evaluate new technologies and reagents.
• Analyze metallurgical data to improve recovery, grade, and cost-efficiency.
• Develop and manage metallurgical accounting systems for tracking recovery.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to the metallurgical team.
• Collaborate with mine planning, operations, and environmental departments.
• Troubleshoot complex metallurgical issues and implement solutions.
• Ensure safety, health, and environmental regulations are followed.
• Prepare reports on performance, feasibility studies, and CAPEX proposals.
• Stay current with industry trends and emerging technologies.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Hybrid work

Willingness to travel

Education

Master's or PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Tools

METSIM

HSC Chemistry

Job description

Placements24 seeks a Lead Metallurgist in Gauteng to optimize mineral extraction, oversee lab and pilot plant work, and lead a team of metallurgists and technicians in a hybrid on-site/remote setting. The role focuses on flotation, cyanidation, solvent extraction, and electrowinning, with safety and environmental stewardship at the forefront.

The successful candidate will drive innovation in extraction methodologies, improve process efficiency and yields, and collaborate with mine planning and