Lead Process Engineer - Hydrometallurgy

Placements24; Siyancuma Local Municipality; Presencial; ZAR 1.200.000 - 2.000.000; Jornada completa

Ventajas ofrecidas por este puesto de trabajo

Medical aid

Provident fund

Performance-based bonuses

Descripción de la vacante

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Process Engineer specialising in hydrometallurgy for an on-site role in Upington, Northern Cape, ZA. You will lead design, development, and optimisation of leaching, solvent extraction, electrowinning, and precipitation, partnering with operations and R&D to push efficiency, safety, and environmental compliance.

The ideal candidate holds 8+ years in process engineering with hydrometallurgy, strong modelling skills (METSIM/Aspen Plus), and proven leadership.

Formación

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or Metallurgy.
• 5+ years of progressive experience in process engineering with focus on hydrometallurgy.
• Proven experience in designing, operating, and troubleshooting hydrometallurgical circuits.

Responsabilidades

• Lead the design, development, and optimisation of hydrometallurgical processes (leaching, SX, EW, precipitation).
• Troubleshoot operational issues and implement root-cause solutions.
• Conduct process modelling, simulation, and mass/energy balance calculations.

Conocimientos

Hydrometallurgy

Process engineering

Leadership

Project management

Problem solving

Educación

Bachelor's or Master's in Chemical Engineering or Metallurgy

Herramientas

METSIM

Aspen Plus

CAD

Descripción del empleo

About the Role

Our client, a prominent metallurgical processing company, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead Process Engineer specialising in Hydrometallurgy. This on-site role is based in Upington, Northern Cape, ZA, and is central to the optimisation and development of their hydrometallurgical circuits. The Lead Process Engineer will be responsible for the design, implementation, and troubleshooting of processes such as leaching, solvent extraction, electrowinning, and precipitation. You will work closely with the operations and R&D teams to drive innovation, improve efficiencies, and ensure product quality and environmental compliance. Our client is at the forefront of metallurgical technology, employing advanced practices to extract valuable metals. This position demands a strong technical background, excellent problem-solving abilities, and leadership experience. The ideal candidate will be passionate about process optimisation and contributing to the success of a leading metallurgical operation. This is a key role with significant impact on plant performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and optimisation of hydrometallurgical processes, including leaching, SX, EW, and precipitation.
• Troubleshoot complex operational issues within the hydrometallurgical plant, identifying root causes and implementing solutions.
• Conduct process modelling, simulation, and mass/energy balance calculations.
• Develop and execute pilot plant trials and scale-up studies for new processes or modifications.
• Prepare detailed process design packages, PFDs, P&IDs, and equipment specifications.
• Provide technical expertise and guidance to operations teams and junior engineers.
• Ensure all process designs and operations comply with safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Collaborate with R&D, geology, and engineering departments to integrate process requirements into project development.
• Stay current with the latest advancements and technologies in hydrometallurgy.
• Contribute to feasibility studies and capital expenditure proposals for new projects and upgrades.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering or Metallurgy, with a strong focus on hydrometallurgy.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in process engineering, with at least 5 years specifically in hydrometallurgical operations.
• Proven experience in designing, operating, and troubleshooting hydrometallurgical circuits.
• Proficiency with process simulation software (e.g., METSIM, Aspen Plus) and CAD tools.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, kinetics, and mass transfer principles relevant to hydrometallurgy.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Demonstrated leadership ability and strong interpersonal skills.
• Experience in project management and working within cross-functional teams.
• Familiarity with South African mining and environmental regulations.
• Must be willing to work on-site in Upington, Northern Cape, ZA.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid, provident fund, and performance-based bonuses.
• This role provides the opportunity to work on cutting-edge hydrometallurgical projects with a leading company in the sector.
• You will be part of a dynamic team and have access to excellent professional development opportunities.
• Our client is committed to fostering a safe, innovative, and collaborative work environment.
• Working on-site in Upington provides an opportunity to be closely involved in operational advancements and contribute directly to process improvements.
• We value employee well-being and offer support for career progression.