Lead Metallurgist - Processing

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance to George

Medical aid

Life insurance

Retirement fund

Professional growth opportunities

Hybrid work arrangement

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Lead Metallurgist to drive mineral processing performance in George, Western Cape. You will lead the metallurgical team, optimize test programs, and ensure safe, compliant operations with a focus on recovery and cost efficiency.

The role requires a decade in mineral processing, 5+ years in leadership, and strong expertise across comminution, flotation, leaching, and gravity separation, with process modeling proficiency. Relocation and hybrid work are offered.

Qualifications

• BSc or BEng in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Master's degree is advantageous.
• 10+ years in mineral processing with 5+ years in leadership within mining.
• Expertise in comminution, flotation, leaching, gravity separation.
• Strong knowledge of process simulation and modeling software.
• Ability to analyze metallurgical data and implement data-driven solutions.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with EHS management systems.
• Hybrid work model experience; Western Cape familiarity is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the metallurgical team, providing technical guidance.
• Oversee daily mineral processing plant operations for optimal performance.
• Develop and monitor metallurgical test work to optimize recovery, grade, and cost.
• Troubleshoot process issues and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure quality control standards for all processed materials.
• Analyze plant data and identify improvement areas.
• Collaborate with geology, engineering, and maintenance for integrated planning.
• Manage metallurgical accounting and reporting.
• Stay current with metallurgical tech and advocate adoption.
• Ensure operations comply with health, safety, and environmental regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Education

BSc/BEng in Metallurgy

Master's degree advantageous

Tools

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant player in the mining sector , is actively seeking a highly experienced and visionary Lead Metallurgist to spearhead their mineral processing operations in George, Western Cape . This is a leadership position responsible for optimizing plant performance, driving innovation in processing techniques, and ensuring the efficient and sustainable recovery of valuable minerals. The successful candidate will oversee all aspects of the metallurgical process, from raw material handling to final product quality, contributing significantly to the profitability and operational excellence of the mine. We are looking for a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of diverse mineral processing circuits and a proven track record of implementing improvements in a demanding operational environment. This role offers a challenging yet rewarding career path in the beautiful Western Cape region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the metallurgical team, providing technical guidance and mentorship.
• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the mineral processing plant, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.
• Develop, implement, and monitor metallurgical test work programs to optimize recovery, grade, and cost.
• Troubleshoot process issues and implement corrective actions to minimize downtime and maximize output.
• Ensure adherence to stringent quality control standards for all processed materials.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and analysis of plant data to identify areas for improvement.
• Collaborate with geology, engineering, and maintenance departments to ensure integrated operational planning.
• Manage metallurgical accounting and reporting, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Stay current with advancements in metallurgical technology and advocate for their adoption where appropriate.
• Ensure all operations comply with health, safety, and environmental regulations relevant to George and the mining industry.

Requirements

• BSc or BEng in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is advantageous.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in mineral processing, with at least 5 years in a supervisory or leadership role within the mining industry .
• Demonstrated expertise in a range of processing techniques (e.g., comminution, flotation, leaching, gravity separation).
• Strong understanding of process simulation and modeling software.
• Proven ability to analyze complex metallurgical data and implement data-driven solutions.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with EHS (Environment, Health, and Safety) management systems.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work model, balancing on-site operational leadership with strategic planning.
• Previous experience in the Western Cape or with similar ore bodies is a plus.
• Professional registration (e.g., SAIMM) is preferred.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive salary package commensurate with experience, including comprehensive medical aid, life insurance, and a retirement fund.
• This position comes with significant opportunities for professional growth, leadership development, and exposure to cutting-edge metallurgical practices.
• The hybrid work arrangement allows for a balance between operational demands and strategic oversight.
• Relocation assistance to the scenic George area will be provided.
• This role offers the chance to make a tangible impact on a key operation within the South African mining landscape and contribute to sustainable resource development.