Lead Process Engineer - Platinum Group Metals Refining

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

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Process Engineer for our client in Klerksdorp, North West, South Africa. You will lead the process engineering team, optimize PGM refining circuits, and drive innovations across hydrometallurgical and pyrometallurgical operations.

The role requires a Master’s or PhD in Chemical Engineering or Metallurgy, 10+ years in metallurgical process engineering with PGM refining, and proven leadership.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgy, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in process engineering within the metallurgical or chemical industries, with specialized expertise in PGM refining.
• Demonstrated experience in leading engineering teams and managing complex process projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead the process engineering team in design, development, and optimization of PGM refining circuits.
• Oversee process simulations, mass and energy balances, and equipment sizing for projects and debottlenecking.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and implement solutions to improve yield and reduce costs.
• Develop and implement advanced process control strategies.
• Ensure compliance with environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Manage pilot plant testing and scale‑up of new refining technologies.
• Mentor and develop junior process engineers and technicians.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and feasibility studies.

Skills

Process engineering

Leadership

Hydrometallurgy

Pyrometallurgy

Aspen Plus/HYSYS

Education

Master’s or PhD in Chemical Eng/Metallurgy

Tools

Aspen Plus

HYSYS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in metallurgical processing and mineral beneficiation, is seeking a highly skilled Lead Process Engineer to manage and optimize their advanced refining operations for Platinum Group Metals (PGMs) in Klerksdorp, North West. This senior role is crucial for driving innovation, improving process efficiency, and ensuring the highest quality output from complex hydrometallurgical and pyrometallurgical circuits. The Lead Process Engineer will be responsible for process design, optimization, troubleshooting, and the implementation of new technologies. You will lead a team of process engineers and metallurgists, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and technical excellence. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to a critical sector of the South African economy, working with cutting‑edge technology and complex chemical processes. The role involves a combination of on‑site process supervision and off‑site technical development.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the process engineering team in the design, development, and optimization of PGM refining circuits.
• Oversee process simulations, mass and energy balances, and equipment sizing for new projects and debottlenecking initiatives.
• Troubleshoot operational issues, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions to improve yield and reduce costs.
• Develop and implement advanced process control strategies.
• Ensure compliance with stringent environmental, health, and safety regulations.
• Manage pilot plant testing and scale‑up of new refining technologies.
• Collaborate with research and development teams to integrate innovative metallurgical processes.
• Mentor and develop junior process engineers and technicians.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, feasibility studies, and process documentation.
• Stay abreast of global advancements in PGM refining and metallurgical technologies.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgy, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in process engineering within the metallurgical or chemical industries, with specialized expertise in PGM refining.
• Demonstrated experience in leading engineering teams and managing complex process projects.
• In-depth knowledge of hydrometallurgical and/or pyrometallurgical processes for precious metals.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., Aspen Plus, HYSYS) and data analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, kinetics, and separation technologies relevant to PGMs.
• Excellent problem‑solving, analytical, and leadership skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) certification is highly preferred.
• Experience working in Klerksdorp, North West or similar metallurgical hub is advantageous.

Benefits

• Highly attractive salary and bonus structure commensurate with experience and leadership.
• Comprehensive executive medical aid, pension fund, and life insurance.
• Relocation assistance and potential housing support.
• Significant opportunities for career progression within a leading global organization.
• Involvement in pioneering projects within South Africa's critical mining and metals sector.
• Flexible hybrid work arrangement for optimized work‑life balance.
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art R&D facilities and advanced technologies.