Lead Chemical Engineer - Mineral Processing

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 2,470,000 - 4,117,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote work

Competitive compensation

Health coverage

Retirement fund

Home office setup allowance

Professional development funding

Job summary

Placements24 client in the mining and metals sector seeks a Lead Chemical Engineer to drive process development and optimization in hydrometallurgical and pyrometallurgical operations. This fully remote role oversees a global team of engineers and scientists delivering scalable, sustainable mineral processing solutions.

You will lead design, simulation, scale-up of circuits (flotation, leaching, solvent extraction, electrowinning), mentor staff, and conduct techno-economic studies.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Chemical Engineering or Metallurgical Engineering is required.
• 10+ years of mineral processing experience, with hydrometallurgy or pyrometallurgy focus.
• Proven leadership of process development projects from concept to implementation.
• Experience with process simulation software and data analytics.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, simulation, and scale-up of mineral processing circuits (flotation, leaching, solvent extraction, electrowinning).
• Develop and implement innovative chemical processes to improve metal recovery and product quality.
• Oversee pilot plant operations and data analysis to validate designs and identify optimization opportunities.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources for process development initiatives.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of chemical and metallurgical engineers.
• Conduct techno-economic assessments and feasibility studies for new technologies.
• Collaborate with R&D to translate lab findings into industrial processes.
• Ensure designs comply with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
• Engage with external research institutions and technology providers to stay at the forefront of innovation.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and presentations for stakeholders.

Skills

Leadership

Process simulation

Data analytics

Project management

Communication

Remote work experience

Education

Master's or PhD in Chemical/Metallurgical Engineering

Tools

HSC Chemistry

METSIM

Aspen Plus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the mining and metals sector, is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Chemical Engineer to spearhead process development and optimization initiatives. This role is fully remote, offering the opportunity to work from anywhere in the world while driving innovation in mineral processing. You will be responsible for leading a team of engineers and scientists in designing, scaling up, and optimizing complex hydrometallurgical and pyrometallurgical processes. This position requires a deep understanding of chemical engineering principles applied to mineral beneficiation, extraction, and refining. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership qualities, a proven ability to manage multi-disciplinary projects, and a passion for sustainable and efficient resource utilization. You will collaborate closely with global research and development teams, operations, and strategic partners to deliver state-of-the-art processing solutions. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned chemical engineer to make a significant impact on a global scale, influencing the future of mineral extraction from a remote setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, simulation, and scale-up of mineral processing circuits, including flotation, leaching, solvent extraction, and electrowinning.
• Develop and implement innovative chemical processes to enhance metal recovery and product quality.
• Oversee pilot plant operations and data analysis to validate process designs and identify optimization opportunities.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources for process development initiatives.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to a team of chemical and metallurgical engineers.
• Conduct techno-economic assessments and feasibility studies for new process technologies.
• Collaborate with R&D to translate laboratory findings into robust industrial processes.
• Ensure process designs comply with stringent safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
• Engage with external research institutions and technology providers to stay at the forefront of innovation.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and documentation for project stakeholders.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering or Metallurgical Engineering.
• 10+ years of experience in mineral processing, with a strong focus on hydrometallurgy or pyrometallurgy.
• Proven experience in leading process development projects from concept to implementation.
• Expertise in process simulation software (e.g., HSC Chemistry, METSIM, Aspen Plus) and data analytics.
• Strong understanding of physical and chemical separation principles relevant to minerals.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent project management capabilities.
• Exceptional problem-solving and strategic thinking abilities.
• Superb communication and presentation skills, comfortable presenting to executive leadership and technical teams globally.
• Experience working in a remote or globally distributed team environment is essential.

Benefits

• As a fully remote position, this role offers exceptional flexibility and the ability to work from anywhere.
• Our client offers a highly competitive compensation package, including a substantial base salary, annual performance bonus, and long-term incentive plans.
• Benefits include premium health coverage, a generous retirement fund, and comprehensive support for professional development, including funding for courses, conferences, and advanced training.
• You will be provided with a generous home office setup allowance.
• Our client is committed to fostering a dynamic and inclusive remote work culture, empowering its employees with autonomy and the resources needed to thrive.
• This is a unique chance to lead critical innovation in the resources sector without geographical limitations.