Lead Chemical Engineer - Hydrometallurgy Specialist

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Annual bonus

Career progression

Accommodation allowances

Travel allowances

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Chemical Engineer specializing in hydrometallurgy to base in Kimberley, Northern Cape. The role requires leading a team of engineers and technicians, developing and optimizing hydrometallurgical processes for metal extraction and refining.

You will drive process improvements, ensure regulatory compliance, and contribute to strategic decisions in a remote industrial setting. The successful candidate has 10+ years in mining and metals with 5+ years in leadership, and

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years in mining and metals industry, with at least 5 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• In-depth knowledge of hydrometallurgical techniques and chemical principles.
• Proven experience in design, scale-up, and troubleshooting of hydrometallurgical circuits.
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) or equivalent certification is highly desirable.
• Ability to work effectively in a remote, industrial setting.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and optimization of hydrometallurgical processes.
• Oversee operation and performance of hydrometallurgical plants for metal recovery and purity.
• Mentor a team of engineers and technicians, promoting safety and technical excellence.
• Conduct feasibility studies, pilot plant trials, and scale-up activities for new technologies.
• Prepare technical reports and manage the department budget.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Excellent communication

Hydrometallurgy expertise

Regulatory compliance

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or Metallurgy

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent entity in the mining and metals industry, is actively seeking a highly experienced Lead Chemical Engineer with a specialization in Hydrometallurgy to be based in Kimberley, Northern Cape . This critical role demands exceptional technical leadership and deep expertise in developing, implementing, and optimizing hydrometallurgical processes for metal extraction and refining. You will be at the forefront of innovation, driving efficiency and sustainability in our client's operations. The successful candidate will manage a team of engineers and technicians, ensuring the seamless operation of complex plant processes and contributing significantly to strategic decision-making. This is a hands‑on leadership position requiring extensive practical knowledge and a commitment to excellence. We are looking for an individual who can provide strategic direction and operational oversight in a challenging industrial environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of hydrometallurgical processes, including leaching, solvent extraction, ion exchange, and electrowinning.
• Oversee the operation and performance of hydrometallurgical plants, ensuring efficient metal recovery and product purity.
• Manage and mentor a team of chemical engineers and technicians, fostering a culture of technical excellence and safety.
• Conduct feasibility studies, pilot plant trials, and scale-up activities for new hydrometallurgical technologies.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental regulations and safety standards specific to chemical processing and mining.
• Analyze operational data to identify trends, troubleshoot issues, and implement process improvements.
• Collaborate with research and development teams to explore and implement innovative solutions.
• Develop and manage the budget for the hydrometallurgy department.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, presentations, and process documentation.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or Metallurgy with a strong focus on hydrometallurgy.
• A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in the mining and metals industry, with at least 5 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• In-depth knowledge of various hydrometallurgical techniques and associated chemical principles.
• Proven experience in process design, scale-up, and troubleshooting of hydrometallurgical circuits.
• Familiarity with process control systems and advanced analytical techniques for material characterization.
• Strong leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Experience with environmental impact assessments and regulatory compliance.
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) or equivalent professional certification is highly desirable.
• Ability to work effectively in a remote, industrial setting.

Benefits

• Highly competitive remuneration package commensurate with expertise and leadership.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement benefits.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth and career progression in a leading industry company.
• Annual bonus structure based on performance and company objectives.
• Exposure to challenging and innovative projects within the metals sector.
• Accommodation and travel allowances for the specified location.
• A robust safety culture and commitment to employee well‑being.