Lead Metallurgist - Remote Technical Support

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Professional development allowance

Annual bonus

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Lead Metallurgist to provide remote technical leadership and support across mining operations from a hybrid work environment. You will guide metallurgical processes, analyze data, and drive optimization to boost recovery rates and product quality.

The role requires a master's or PhD in Metallurgy or related field, 10+ years in extractive metallurgy, and strong leadership and communication skills to mentor teams and collaborate with on-site engineers.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years in extractive metallurgy.
• Proven ability to lead technical teams and manage complex metallurgical projects.
• Expertise in mineral processing unit operations and simulation software such as METSIM and JKSimMet.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert metallurgical guidance and remote/onsite support to plant operations.
• Analyze process data to identify optimization opportunities in grinding, flotation, leaching, and refining.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve metal recovery and concentrate grades.
• Troubleshoot complex metallurgical issues and determine root causes with effective solutions.
• Lead and mentor junior metallurgists and technical staff via remote coaching.
• Review and approve metallurgical test work programs and ensure accurate scale-up to plant operations.

Skills

Technical leadership

Data analysis

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in Metallurgy

Chemical Engineering

Tools

METSIM

JKSimMet

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced Lead Metallurgist to provide remote technical leadership and support for their diverse range of mining operations. This pivotal role involves overseeing metallurgical processes, troubleshooting operational challenges, and driving process optimization initiatives from a hybrid work environment. You will collaborate closely with on-site engineering teams, utilizing data analytics and remote monitoring tools to enhance recovery rates, improve product quality, and ensure operational efficiency. This position requires a blend of deep metallurgical knowledge and strong communication skills to effectively guide and mentor teams, contributing significantly to the company's technical excellence and operational performance in the mineral processing domain.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert metallurgical guidance and technical support to plant operations, both remotely and through occasional site visits.
• Analyze process data to identify opportunities for optimization in areas such as grinding, flotation, leaching, and refining.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve metal recovery, concentrate grades, and overall process efficiency.
• Troubleshoot complex metallurgical issues, diagnosing root causes and recommending effective solutions.
• Lead and mentor junior metallurgists and technical staff through remote coaching and knowledge sharing.
• Review and approve metallurgical test work programs and ensure accurate scale-up to plant operations.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in extractive metallurgy, with significant exposure to base and precious metals.
• Proven ability to lead technical teams and manage complex metallurgical projects.
• Expertise in mineral processing unit operations and simulation software (e.g., METSIM, JKSimMet).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, comfortable working in a hybrid or remote setting .

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package with an annual bonus.
• Comprehensive health, retirement, and insurance benefits.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility between home and office.
• Generous allowance for professional development and continuous learning.
• Opportunity to influence and lead technical innovation in the mining industry .