Lead Metallurgical Process Engineer - Base Metals

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Medical insurance

Retirement savings plan

Professional development

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Metallurgical Process Engineer to optimize base metal processes in Vereeniging, SA. You will lead a team of engineers and technicians, advancing flotation, leaching, and refining while driving safety and environmental compliance.

Hybrid role with on-site Vereeniging presence and remote collaboration for select tasks. Requires 10+ years in metallurgical processing and strong leadership and data-analysis skills.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in metallurgical processing, with at least 5 years in a leadership role focused on base metals.
• In-depth knowledge of mineral processing principles for copper, zinc, lead, nickel, or other base metals.
• Proven experience with process simulation software (e.g., METSIM, HSC) and data analysis.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage technical teams and projects.
• Strong understanding of plant operations, safety protocols, and environmental regulations.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, requiring both on-site presence and remote collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development, implementation, and optimization of base metal processing circuits (e.g., flotation, leaching, solvent extraction, electrowinning).
• Oversee process troubleshooting and provide expert technical support to plant operations.
• Manage metallurgical test work programs, from laboratory scale to pilot plant trials.
• Analyze process data, identify trends, and recommend improvements to enhance recovery and product specifications.
• Lead and mentor a team of metallurgical engineers and technicians, fostering technical excellence and professional growth.
• Develop and manage capital expenditure projects related to process upgrades and new installations.
• Ensure all metallurgical activities comply with safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Collaborate with research and development teams to explore new processing technologies.
• Prepare technical reports, feasibility studies, and presentations for management.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem solving

Strategic thinking

Data analysis

Education

Master's or PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Tools

METSIM

HSC

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key player in the extraction and processing of base metals, is seeking an experienced and innovative Lead Metallurgical Process Engineer to enhance their operations in Vereeniging, Gauteng. This role is central to optimizing existing metallurgical processes, developing new ones, and ensuring the efficient recovery of valuable base metals. You will lead a team of engineers and technicians, driving projects that improve plant performance, product quality, and cost efficiency. The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in mineral processing, particularly flotation, leaching, and refining of base metals, combined with excellent leadership and analytical skills. This hybrid position requires regular engagement at our Vereeniging site, with flexibility for remote work on specific tasks and projects. Join a forward-thinking organization committed to technological advancement and sustainable resource development in the vibrant Gauteng region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development, implementation, and optimization of base metal processing circuits (e.g., flotation, leaching, solvent extraction, electrowinning).
• Oversee process troubleshooting and provide expert technical support to plant operations.
• Manage metallurgical test work programs, from laboratory scale to pilot plant trials.
• Analyze process data, identify trends, and recommend improvements to enhance recovery and product specifications.
• Lead and mentor a team of metallurgical engineers and technicians, fostering technical excellence and professional growth.
• Develop and manage capital expenditure projects related to process upgrades and new installations.
• Ensure all metallurgical activities comply with safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Collaborate with research and development teams to explore new processing technologies.
• Prepare technical reports, feasibility studies, and presentations for management.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in metallurgical processing, with at least 5 years in a leadership role focused on base metals.
• In-depth knowledge of mineral processing principles for copper, zinc, lead, nickel, or other base metals.
• Proven experience with process simulation software (e.g., METSIM, HSC) and data analysis.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage technical teams and projects.
• Strong understanding of plant operations, safety protocols, and environmental regulations.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, requiring both on-site presence and remote collaboration.
• Experience within the Vereeniging, Gauteng industrial hub is advantageous.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package.
• Performance-related bonus and long-term incentives.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement savings plan with company match.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Hybrid work model promoting work-life balance.
• Relocation assistance for successful candidates.
• Access to cutting-edge technology and research facilities.