Lead Metallurgist - Base Metals Processing

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Annual bonus

Medical insurance

Retirement fund

Relocation support

Global training opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Mpumalanga seeks a Lead Metallurgist to oversee base metals processing in Nelspruit. You will drive plant performance, guide the metallurgical team, and implement advanced processing strategies to improve recovery and concentrate quality.

Applicants should hold a Master’s or PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering with 10+ years in base metals, and possess strong leadership, analytical, and safety-management skills for a large-scale mining operation.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in base metals processing within the mining industry.
• Demonstrated leadership experience, with a proven ability to manage and develop technical teams.
• In-depth knowledge of flotation, leaching, and other relevant base metal recovery techniques.
• Expertise in metallurgical accounting, process simulation software (e.g., METSIM, Outotec HSC), and data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and refine metallurgical processes for base metals (e.g., copper, nickel, zinc).
• Manage and mentor the metallurgical team, providing technical guidance and performance feedback.
• Oversee daily plant operations, troubleshooting process deviations and implementing corrective actions.
• Conduct metallurgical test work, pilot plant trials, and full-scale plant evaluations to optimize recovery and concentrate quality.
• Analyze metallurgical data, prepare detailed reports, and present findings to senior management.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations within the processing plant.
• Collaborate with engineering and operations departments on plant upgrades, debottlenecking, and new project developments.
• Manage metallurgical budgets and control operational costs effectively.

Skills

Leadership

Data analysis

Problem solving

Communication

Team mentoring

Education

Master's or PhD in Metallurgy

Tools

METSIM

Outotec HSC

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent entity in the mining industry, is actively seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead Metallurgist to oversee their advanced base metals processing operations in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga . This senior position is crucial for optimizing plant performance, driving innovation in metallurgical processes, and ensuring the efficient recovery of valuable metals. The successful candidate will lead a team of metallurgists and technicians, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement. This role offers the chance to work on complex processing challenges within a state-of-the-art facility, contributing directly to the company's operational efficiency and profitability. We are looking for a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of mineral processing fundamentals and a proven ability to manage large-scale operations in the Nelspruit, Mpumalanga region.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and refine metallurgical processes for base metals (e.g., copper, nickel, zinc).
• Manage and mentor the metallurgical team, providing technical guidance and performance feedback.
• Oversee daily plant operations, troubleshooting process deviations and implementing corrective actions.
• Conduct metallurgical test work, pilot plant trials, and full-scale plant evaluations to optimize recovery and concentrate quality.
• Analyze metallurgical data, prepare detailed reports, and present findings to senior management.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations within the processing plant.
• Collaborate with engineering and operations departments on plant upgrades, debottlenecking, and new project developments.
• Manage metallurgical budgets and control operational costs effectively.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in base metals processing within the mining industry.
• Demonstrated leadership experience, with a proven ability to manage and develop technical teams.
• In-depth knowledge of flotation, leaching, and other relevant base metal recovery techniques.
• Expertise in metallurgical accounting, process simulation software (e.g., METSIM, Outotec HSC), and data analysis.
• Strong understanding of plant safety protocols and environmental management systems.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience working in or managing operations in Mpumalanga , South Africa, is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client provides a highly competitive salary package, complemented by a significant annual bonus structure based on performance.
• Comprehensive medical insurance, a robust retirement fund, and relocation assistance are part of the extensive benefits.
• Opportunities for international training, professional development, and career progression within a globally recognized mining group are readily available.
• The company is committed to fostering a safe and inclusive work environment for all its employees in Nelspruit .