Lead Metallurgist - Processing and Recovery

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Retirement plan

Relocation support

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Metallurgist to direct and enhance mineral processing operations near Polokwane, Limpopo. The role focuses on optimizing recovery, improving efficiency, and ensuring product quality with a strong emphasis on technical leadership.

Requires MSc/PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering with 10+ years in mineral processing, SA experience, and SAIMM registration is advantageous. On-site role with travel to other sites as needed.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering.
• Minimum 10 years in mineral processing with SA experience.
• Professional registration (SAIMM) is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Oversee mineral processing plant performance and targets.
• Lead tests, pilot studies, and commissioning of new processes.
• Mentor metallurgists and technicians; develop technical teams.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations and maintenance teams.

Skills

Leadership

Process optimization

Data analysis

Cross-functional collaboration

Communication

Education

MSc or PhD in Metallurgy / Chemical Engineering

SAIMM registration (advantage)

Tools

Metso Outotec HSC Chemistry

Golder Comminution

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant force in the mineral processing industry, is seeking an accomplished Lead Metallurgist to direct and enhance their processing operations near Polokwane. This senior role is crucial for optimizing mineral recovery, improving process efficiency, and ensuring the consistent quality of produced materials. The successful candidate will leverage extensive expertise in metallurgical principles and cutting‑edge processing technologies to drive innovation and maintain a competitive edge. This position offers an excellent opportunity to lead a specialized team and contribute to the strategic direction of our operations in Limpopo. We are committed to fostering a culture of technical excellence and continuous learning, providing a stimulating environment for professionals in the South African mining sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of the mineral processing plant, ensuring optimal performance and adherence to production targets.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve recovery rates, reduce operating costs, and enhance product quality.
• Lead metallurgical test work, pilot plant studies, and plant commissioning for new processes or modifications.
• Troubleshoot complex metallurgical problems, identifying root causes and implementing effective solutions.
• Manage and mentor a team of metallurgists and technicians, promoting skill development and high performance.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, and maintenance teams to ensure seamless plant functionality.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and conduct regular performance reviews of the processing operations.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and environmental standards and regulations.
• Stay current with advancements in metallurgical technologies and process engineering.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, analyses, and recommendations for senior management.

Requirements

• MSc or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mineral processing, with a proven track record in South Africa.
• In-depth knowledge of various mineral processing techniques (e.g., flotation, leaching, gravity separation, hydrometallurgy) applicable to relevant ores.
• Experience with process simulation software (e.g., Metso Outotec HSC Chemistry, Golder Comminution) is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and develop technical teams.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a meticulous approach to data interpretation.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Professional registration (e.g., SAIMM) is an advantage.
• Ability to work on‑site in Polokwane and occasional travel to other sites as required.
• Experience in managing plant budgets and operational expenditures.

Benefits

Our client provides an attractive salary package commensurate with experience, comprehensive medical and dental insurance, and a discretionary annual bonus. Furthermore, employees benefit from a robust retirement savings plan, professional development funding, and relocation support to Polokwane. We are dedicated to fostering a safe and collaborative working atmosphere, offering substantial career advancement prospects within the Limpopo region and the broader South African mining landscape.