Lead Engineer, Heap Leach Process Design & Innovation

Mintek Pty Ltd.; Randburg; On-site; ZAR 950,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Job summary

Mintek is seeking a Principal Engineer in Randburg to lead process design in the Biometallurgy Division's heap leaching programs. You will drive lab, pilot, and demonstration-scale work, mentor junior staff, and deliver high-quality technical outputs for clients and funding bodies.

The role requires a PhD in Chemical Engineering with extensive hydrometallurgy or heap leaching experience, and a proven track record in securing research funding.

Qualifications

• PhD in Chemical Engineering (with a BSc(Eng) or BEng undergraduate degree).
• A minimum of 6 years’ relevant experience in hydrometallurgy, bioleaching, or heap leaching including process development and management of complex commercial and research projects.
• Strong understanding of chemical and microbiological processes in heap leaching.
• Proven track record in attracting research funding (e.g. state grant, contract research, or similar funding mechanisms).

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee complex laboratory, pilot, and demonstration-scale test work for chemical and biological heap leaching systems.
• Drive research and innovation, contributing to the development of new technologies and methodologies in line with the Group’s focus areas.
• Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior Engineers / Scientists / Technicians, supporting skills development and succession planning.
• Lead the preparation of high-quality technical reports, client deliverables, and presentations.
• Initiate, develop, and lead proposals for commercial work and research funding, including strategic input and client engagement.
• Contribute to business development, including client interaction and identification of new opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with SHEQ requirements, laboratory protocols, and data governance standards.
• Responsible for key process equipment and facilities, ensuring optimal utilisation, maintenance and development.

Skills

Project management

Leadership & mentoring

People development

Education

PhD in Chemical Engineering with BSc(Eng)/BEng

Job description

Mintek is seeking a Principal Engineer in Randburg to lead process design in the Biometallurgy Division's heap leaching programs. You will drive lab, pilot, and demonstration-scale work, mentor junior staff, and deliver high-quality technical outputs for clients and funding bodies.

The role requires a PhD in Chemical Engineering with extensive hydrometallurgy or heap leaching experience, and a proven track record in securing research funding.