Metallurgist – Mineral Processing & Extraction

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 invites applications for a Metallurgist to drive process development and optimization in mineral processing near Centurion, Gauteng. The role focuses on improving metal recovery, troubleshooting, and implementing SOPs across comminution, flotation, and leaching circuits.

The ideal candidate has a strong background in laboratory analysis, process control, and safety compliance, with 5+ years in metals processing and plant optimization.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering.
• At least 5 years in mineral processing and metallurgy.
• Knowledge of crushing, grinding, flotation, leaching, and solid-liquid separation.
• Experience with laboratory analysis and result interpretation.
• Ability to troubleshoot process upsets and optimize performance.
• Strong communication and report-writing skills.
• Commitment to safety and environmental best practices.
• Ability to work in a team and independently.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and analyze plant operations to optimize recovery and concentrate grades.
• Conduct laboratory and pilot-scale test work to evaluate process improvements and new technologies.
• Troubleshoot process upsets and implement effective solutions to minimize downtime and production losses.
• Develop and implement SOPs for metallurgical processes.
• Manage and interpret metallurgical accounting data.
• Collaborate with operations and maintenance teams to ensure efficient plant functioning.
• Stay abreast of new metallurgical techniques and technologies relevant to the industry.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations pertaining to metallurgical operations.
• Prepare technical reports on plant performance, test results, and improvement recommendations.
• Assist in the commissioning of new equipment and process modifications.

Skills

Metallurgy experience

Comminution & flotation

Leaching processes

Metallurgical accounting

Laboratory analysis

Process control

Instrumentation knowledge

Technical reporting

Teamwork

Safety compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Metallurgical simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent mining entity, is seeking a skilled and results-oriented Metallurgist to contribute to their mineral processing operations near Centurion, Gauteng . This role is central to optimizing the extraction and recovery of valuable minerals from ore. The successful candidate will be responsible for process development, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement initiatives within the metallurgical plant. We are looking for an individual with a strong understanding of comminution, flotation, leaching, and other relevant metallurgical processes. You will play a key role in ensuring efficient plant performance, maximizing metal recovery, and maintaining product quality. This position requires a hands‑on approach, excellent analytical abilities, and a commitment to safe and environmentally sound operating practices. Join a forward-thinking company dedicated to technological advancement in the mining sector, based in the strategic hub of Centurion .

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and analyze plant operations to optimize recovery and concentrate grades.
• Conduct laboratory and pilot-scale test work to evaluate process improvements and new technologies.
• Troubleshoot process upsets and implement effective solutions to minimize downtime and production losses.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for metallurgical processes.
• Manage and interpret metallurgical accounting data.
• Collaborate with operations and maintenance teams to ensure efficient plant functioning.
• Stay abreast of new metallurgical techniques and technologies relevant to the industry.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations pertaining to metallurgical operations.
• Prepare technical reports on plant performance, test results, and improvement recommendations.
• Assist in the commissioning of new equipment and process modifications.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in mineral processing and metallurgy, ideally within precious metals or base metals.
• Strong knowledge of metallurgical unit processes such as crushing, grinding, flotation, leaching, and solid-liquid separation.
• Proficiency in metallurgical laboratory analysis and interpretation of results.
• Experience with metallurgical simulation software is an advantage.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong understanding of process control and instrumentation.
• Effective communication and report‑writing abilities.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety and environmental best practices.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and independently.
• Experience working near Centurion, Gauteng is preferred.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and retirement fund, and performance-based incentives. Significant opportunities for professional development, training, and career advancement are provided. Employees benefit from a robust safety culture and a supportive team environment. Our client is committed to sustainability and operational excellence. This role in Centurion presents an excellent opportunity to advance your career in metallurgical engineering within a leading mining organization.