Lead Metallurgist - Process Optimization

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 1,400,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Leave allowance

Relocation assistance

International training

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Metallurgist for our mining client near George, Western Cape. The role focuses on optimizing mineral processing, improving recovery, and reducing costs, with high-level accountability and strategic impact.

You will lead test work, pilot trials, data-driven optimization, and collaborate with operations, engineering, and research teams, mentoring staff and driving sustainable mining practices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 10 years in mineral processing/metallurgy with at least 3 years in a lead role.
• Experience optimizing comminution, flotation, leaching, or similar processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and implementation of metallurgical process improvements to enhance recovery and reduce costs.
• Conduct metallurgical test work, pilot plant trials, and scale-up studies.
• Analyze process data, identify bottlenecks, propose data-driven optimization solutions.
• Provide expert metallurgical guidance to plant operations and engineering teams.
• Oversee development and maintenance of metallurgical models and simulations.
• Ensure processing activities comply with environmental regulations and best practices.
• Manage and mentor a team of metallurgists and technicians.
• Stay abreast of new metallurgical technologies and trends.

Skills

Metallurgy expertise

Process optimization

Data analysis

Leadership

Communication

Statistical process control

Education

Metallurgy degree

Chemical Engineering degree

Tools

METSIM

HSC Chemistry

Job description

About the Role Our client, a prominent entity in the Mining sector, is seeking a highly skilled and innovative Lead Metallurgist to spearhead process optimization initiatives at their facilities near George, Western Cape . This senior position requires a strategic thinker capable of enhancing mineral processing efficiency, improving recovery rates, and driving down operational costs. You will be instrumental in evaluating, developing, and implementing new metallurgical processes and technologies. The role involves close collaboration with operations, engineering, and research teams to ensure the successful integration of process improvements. We are looking for a candidate with a deep technical expertise in metallurgy, strong leadership qualities, and a commitment to sustainable mining practices. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in a key operational role, contributing to the long-term success of a respected mining organization operating in the picturesque Western Cape region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of metallurgical process improvements to enhance recovery and reduce costs.
• Conduct metallurgical test work, pilot plant trials, and scale-up studies for new and existing processes.
• Analyze process data, identify bottlenecks, and propose data-driven solutions for optimization.
• Provide expert metallurgical guidance and technical support to plant operations and engineering teams.
• Oversee the development and maintenance of metallurgical models and simulations.
• Ensure all processing activities comply with environmental regulations and best practices.
• Manage and mentor a team of metallurgists and technicians, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Stay abreast of new metallurgical technologies and industry trends, assessing their applicability.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mineral processing and metallurgy, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or lead role.
• Proven experience in optimizing comminution, flotation, leaching, or other relevant metallurgical processes.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with expertise in statistical process control.
• Proficiency with metallurgical simulation software (e.g., METSIM, HSC Chemistry) is advantageous.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively influence stakeholders.
• Experience working in the Western Cape or willingness to adapt to the local operating environment.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities and a commitment to team development.

Benefits

• An attractive annual salary package reflecting your expertise and leadership.
• Performance-based bonuses and potential for profit sharing.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement benefits.
• Generous annual leave allowance.
• Opportunities for international training and conference attendance.
• Relocation assistance for successful candidates moving to the George area.