Metallurgist - Mineral Processing

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical coverage

Retirement fund contributions

Career advancement

Job summary

Our client in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, seeks a Metallurgist to optimize mineral processing circuits and improve recovery across ore types. The role emphasizes process development, troubleshooting, data analysis and implementing improvements for efficiency and product quality.

The candidate will monitor performance, lead test work, mentor junior staff, and ensure safety and environmental standards are met. A degree and 5+ years in the field are expected; shift work and travel may be required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum of 5 years' experience in mineral processing operations.
• Strong understanding of metallurgical principles and unit operations.
• Experience with data analysis and statistical process control.
• Experience with METSIM or JKSimMet is advantageous.
• Willingness to work shifts and travel occasionally near Richards Bay.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and optimize mineral processing circuits (e.g., crushing, grinding, flotation, leaching, gravity separation).
• Conduct metallurgical test work and pilot plant studies to evaluate new processes or improve existing ones.
• Analyze process data, troubleshoot operational issues, and implement corrective actions to maintain performance targets.
• Develop and implement quality control procedures to ensure product specifications are met.
• Monitor reagent consumption and effectiveness, optimizing dosages for cost-efficiency.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and engineering teams to ensure smooth plant operation.
• Prepare technical reports, metallurgical accounting, and performance reviews.
• Ensure adherence to all health, safety, and environmental standards within the processing plant.
• Stay abreast of advancements in metallurgical technology and best practices.
• Mentor junior metallurgists and technicians.

Skills

Metallurgical principles

Data analysis

Process optimization

Statistical process control

Teamwork & communication

Problem-solving

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field

Tools

METSIM

JKSimMet

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant force in the mineral processing industry, is seeking a talented and driven Metallurgist to join their operations in the strategically important area of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA . This role is central to optimizing the extraction and recovery of valuable minerals from various ore types. The Metallurgist will be responsible for process development, troubleshooting, performance monitoring, and implementing improvements to enhance efficiency and product quality. This position requires a strong foundation in chemical and physical processes related to mineral beneficiation. The ideal candidate will possess excellent analytical skills, a practical approach to problem-solving, and a commitment to safe and sustainable operational practices. Join an innovative team dedicated to maximizing mineral value in the thriving industrial hub of Richards Bay .

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and optimize mineral processing circuits (e.g., crushing, grinding, flotation, leaching, gravity separation).
• Conduct metallurgical test work and pilot plant studies to evaluate new processes or improve existing ones.
• Analyze process data, troubleshoot operational issues, and implement corrective actions to maintain performance targets.
• Develop and implement quality control procedures to ensure product specifications are met.
• Monitor reagent consumption and effectiveness, optimizing dosages for cost-efficiency.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and engineering teams to ensure smooth plant operation.
• Prepare technical reports, metallurgical accounting, and performance reviews.
• Ensure adherence to all health, safety, and environmental standards within the processing plant.
• Stay abreast of advancements in metallurgical technology and best practices.
• Mentor junior metallurgists and technicians.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in mineral processing operations, preferably in base metals or precious metals.
• Strong understanding of metallurgical principles and unit operations.
• Experience with process simulation software (e.g., METSIM, JKSimMet) is advantageous.
• Proficiency in data analysis and statistical process control.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and a hands-on approach.
• Knowledge of relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations in South Africa .
• Ability to work effectively in a team and communicate technical information clearly.
• Familiarity with common laboratory analytical techniques used in metallurgy.
• Willingness to work shifts and travel occasionally to support operations based near Richards Bay .

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive salary and an attractive benefits package, including comprehensive medical coverage, retirement fund contributions, and opportunities for career advancement.
• This position is based in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , a key port city with significant industrial activity.
• We are committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and stimulating work environment, contributing to the vital mineral processing sector in South Africa .