Lead Metallurgist (Processing Operations)

Placements24; Klerksdorp; On-site; ZAR 2,000,000 - 3,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary package

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Career development

Job summary

Placements24 in Klerksdorp, North West invites a seasoned Lead Metallurgist to oversee the metallurgical plant operations, driving safety, efficiency and cost control across comminution, flotation, leaching and refining. You will mentor a team of metallurgists and technicians, implement process improvements, monitor KPIs, and ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental standards.

This executive role offers a competitive salary package, bonus opportunities and long-term career

Qualifications

• 10+ years in mineral processing with supervisory experience.
• Proven leadership of metallurgical teams and projects.
• Strong knowledge of base metals, precious metals or PGMs.
• Experience with process control and plant operations.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily metallurgical plant operations for safety and throughput.
• Drive strategies to improve recovery, product quality and efficiency.
• Lead and mentor the metallurgical team, fostering safety and innovation.
• Conduct root-cause analysis and implement corrective actions.
• Manage testing programs, pilot plants, and new process development.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication skills

Data-driven decisions

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Metallurgy

Tools

Modelling software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the mining and minerals processing industry, is seeking an accomplished Lead Metallurgist to manage and optimize their processing operations. Located in the significant mining town of Klerksdorp, North West , this senior role is responsible for ensuring the efficient, safe, and cost-effective recovery of valuable minerals. The Lead Metallurgist will oversee all aspects of the metallurgical plant, from comminution and flotation to leaching and refining, driving continuous improvement initiatives and leading a team of skilled metallurgists and technicians. This is a challenging and rewarding opportunity to contribute to large-scale production and technological advancements in mineral processing.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage the daily operations of the metallurgical processing plant, ensuring optimal performance and throughput.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve recovery rates, product quality, and operational efficiency.
• Lead and mentor the metallurgical team, fostering a culture of safety, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Conduct root cause analysis for process deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Manage metallurgical testing programs, pilot plant operations, and new process development initiatives.
• Ensure strict adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations and company policies.
• Prepare technical reports, operational reviews, and budget proposals.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, and geology departments to optimize the entire mining value chain.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement data-driven decision-making processes.
• Stay abreast of the latest metallurgical technologies and best practices.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in mineral processing, with at least 5 years in a supervisory or leadership role.
• Proven expertise in base metals, precious metals, or PGMs processing (e.g., flotation, leaching, smelting).
• Strong understanding of metallurgical principles, plant operations, and process control.
• Experience with metallurgical modelling and simulation software.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities, with the ability to motivate and manage a technical team.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Knowledge of South African mining regulations and environmental standards is essential.
• Experience in the Klerksdorp mining region is advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive executive salary package, including annual bonuses and potential long-term incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid and a robust retirement fund are provided.
• Opportunities for professional development, further training, and career advancement within a global organization are significant.
• This role is based in Klerksdorp, North West , and offers a chance to lead critical processing operations.