Lead Metallurgical Process Engineer - Smelting & Refining

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Metallurgical Process Engineer to direct smelting and refining operations in Tembisa, Gauteng. Lead a team of metallurgists, drive process improvements, and ensure safety, environmental compliance, and high performance across base metals operations.

The role emphasizes project leadership from concept to implementation, with hybrid work arrangements and opportunities to advance through cutting-edge metallurgical technologies.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years progressive metallurgical process engineering experience, 5+ years in leadership/supervisory roles.
• Deep knowledge of pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical principles in commercial operations.
• Experience with process simulation/modeling (HSC Chemistry, METSIM).
• Proven ability to lead and develop technical teams.
• Strong project management with track record of delivering complex projects.
• Ability to troubleshoot and optimize plant operations to improve recovery and reduce costs.
• In-depth understanding of SHE regulations and best practices in metals.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
• Experience in base metals refining (copper, nickel, zinc) is highly desirable.
• Willingness to work a hybrid schedule (on-site leadership with remote analysis) in Tembisa, Gauteng.

Responsibilities

• Lead development, implementation, and optimization of metallurgical processes for smelting and refining (base metals).
• Supervise and mentor metallurgical engineers and technicians.
• Conduct process audits, identify improvements, and develop action plans to boost efficiency and recovery.
• Manage process development projects from concept through pilot and full-scale implementation.
• Develop process models, simulations, and control strategies for performance and quality.
• Troubleshoot complex issues, diagnose root causes, and minimize downtime.
• Ensure compliance with SHE standards and promote safety culture.
• Collaborate with R&D, operations, and maintenance to drive innovation and adopt new tech.
• Prepare technical reports, feasibility studies, and process documentation.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Team development

Troubleshooting

Communication

Safety & SHE awareness

Education

Master's or PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Tools

HSC Chemistry

METSIM

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading force in the global mining and metals industry, is actively seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead Metallurgical Process Engineer to oversee and optimize their smelting and refining operations in Tembisa, Gauteng . This pivotal role requires a visionary leader with a profound understanding of hydrometallurgical and pyrometallurgical processes, focused on driving efficiency, maximizing recovery rates, and ensuring the highest standards of operational safety and environmental compliance. You will be responsible for leading a team of talented metallurgists and engineers, championing innovative process improvements, and managing complex projects to enhance plant performance. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of metallurgical processes at a significant operational hub in Tembisa, Gauteng , and contribute to the company's strategic objectives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development, implementation, and optimization of metallurgical processes for smelting and refining operations, focusing on base metals.
• Supervise and mentor a team of metallurgical engineers and technicians, fostering a collaborative and high-performance work environment.
• Conduct in-depth process audits, identify areas for improvement, and develop action plans to enhance operational efficiency, throughput, and metal recovery.
• Manage process development projects, from conceptualization and pilot testing to full-scale implementation, ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.
• Develop and maintain process models, simulation tools, and control strategies to ensure optimal plant performance and product quality.
• Troubleshoot complex operational issues, diagnose root causes, and implement effective solutions to minimize downtime and maximize asset utilization.
• Ensure all operations adhere to stringent safety, health, and environmental (SHE) standards, promoting a proactive safety culture within the metallurgical department in Tembisa, Gauteng .
• Collaborate with R&D, operations, and maintenance teams to drive innovation and the adoption of new technologies in metallurgy.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, feasibility studies, and process documentation for management and stakeholders.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in metallurgical process engineering, with at least 5 years in a leadership or supervisory role within smelting and refining operations.
• Extensive knowledge of pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical principles and their application in commercial operations.
• Proven experience in process simulation and modeling (e.g., HSC Chemistry, METSIM).
• Demonstrated success in leading and developing technical teams.
• Strong project management skills with a track record of delivering complex projects.
• Expertise in troubleshooting and optimizing plant operations to improve recovery and reduce costs.
• In-depth understanding of SHE regulations and best practices in the metals industry.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
• Experience in base metals refining (e.g., copper, nickel, zinc) is highly desirable.
• Willingness to work a hybrid schedule, balancing remote analysis with on-site operational leadership in Tembisa, Gauteng .

Benefits

This role comes with a highly attractive remuneration package, including a competitive base salary, performance-related bonuses, and comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions. Our client is committed to employee growth and offers extensive professional development opportunities, including further training, conference attendance, and clear pathways for career advancement. This position is based in Tembisa, Gauteng , offering a chance to work with cutting-edge technology and make a significant impact within a globally recognized organization.