Lead Process Engineer - Mining

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Process Engineer to join near Mahikeng, North West, overseeing mineral processing plants. You will lead a team of engineers and technicians, guiding design, operation and optimization of circuits such as comminution, flotation, leaching and solid-liquid separation.

The role requires a degree in Chemical or Metallurgical Engineering, 10+ years in mining processing, and strong analytical skills with process simulation experience.

Qualifications

• Degree in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering or related field; a Master's degree is advantageous.
• Minimum 10 years in process engineering within mining/mineral processing.
• Proven leadership of engineering teams and complex projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of process engineers and technicians in mineral processing operations.
• Oversee design, operation, and optimization of mineral processing circuits (comminution, flotation, leaching, solid-liquid separation).
• Identify opportunities for process improvement, cost reduction, and efficiency gains.
• Develop and implement process control strategies and automation solutions.
• Conduct feasibility studies and debottlenecking analyses.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental regulations and company standards.
• Manage process projects including scope, budgeting, scheduling, and execution.
• Troubleshoot operational problems and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate with R&D on new technologies and pilot studies.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, P&IDs, and operational documentation.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Analytical skills

Process optimization

Problem solving

Stakeholder management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical or Metallurgical Engineering

Master's degree (advantageous)

Tools

MetSIM

HSC Chemistry

Aspen Plus

Job description

About the Role Our client, a significant contributor to the mining industry , is seeking a dynamic and experienced Lead Process Engineer to join their operations near Mahikeng, North West . This senior role is responsible for optimizing and improving the efficiency, safety, and environmental performance of the company's mineral processing plants. You will lead a team of process engineers and technicians, oversee process design, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement initiatives. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of mineral processing technologies, strong analytical skills, and a proven ability to manage complex projects from conception through to implementation. This position requires hands-on experience in identifying bottlenecks, developing innovative solutions, and ensuring that process operations meet production targets and quality standards. You will play a crucial role in driving technological advancements and ensuring the sustainable and cost-effective operation of our client's processing facilities. We are looking for a proactive leader with a passion for operational excellence in the mining sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor a team of process engineers and technical staff involved in mineral processing operations.
• Oversee the design, operation, and optimization of mineral processing circuits (e.g., comminution, flotation, leaching, solid-liquid separation).
• Identify opportunities for process improvement, cost reduction, and efficiency gains.
• Develop and implement process control strategies and automation solutions.
• Conduct feasibility studies, technical reviews, and debottlenecking analyses.
• Ensure all process operations comply with health, safety, environmental regulations, and company standards.
• Manage process engineering projects, including scope definition, budgeting, scheduling, and execution.
• Troubleshoot operational problems and implement effective corrective actions.
• Collaborate with research and development teams on new technologies and pilot plant studies.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, process flow diagrams, P&IDs, and operational documentation.

Requirements

• Degree in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, or a related field; a Master's degree is advantageous.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in process engineering within the mining and mineral processing sector .
• Proven experience in leading engineering teams and managing complex projects.
• In-depth knowledge of various mineral processing techniques and equipment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with expertise in process simulation software (e.g., MetSIM, HSC Chemistry, Aspen Plus).
• Familiarity with process control systems and instrumentation.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work effectively in the Mahikeng region and travel to operational sites.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and leadership capabilities.
• Performance-based bonus and potential for equity participation.
• Comprehensive medical aid, disability insurance, and retirement fund.
• Significant opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
• Exposure to diverse mineral commodities and advanced processing technologies.
• Relocation assistance may be provided for candidates relocating to the North West province.
• A dynamic work environment focused on innovation and operational excellence.