Metallurgist - Process Optimization (Remote)

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote

Competitive pay

Health insurance

Annual bonus

Career development

Virtual team culture

Retirement plan

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Metallurgist to join a global leader in mineral processing. This fully remote role drives process improvements and optimizes metal recovery across mining operations, leveraging hydrometallurgy, pyrometallurgy, and comminution expertise.

You will work with geologists, engineers and managers worldwide via virtual channels. The role emphasizes metallurgical accounting, process simulation, and advanced analytical techniques, with remote collaboration as a core

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Metallurgy or related field.
• 6+ years in mineral processing and metallurgy.
• Experience with process simulation and metallurgy accounting.

Responsibilities

• Analyze metallurgical data from mineral processing plants to identify optimization areas.
• Develop strategies to improve metal recovery and reduce costs.
• Conduct lab tests and pilot plant studies to evaluate new technologies.
• Provide remote technical support and troubleshooting for operations.
• Collaborate with site metallurgists and plant teams to implement improvements.
• Prepare metallurgical reports and technical presentations.

Skills

Process simulation

Data analysis

Metallurgical accounting

Statistic methods

Remote communication

Problem solving

Education

Master's degree in Metallurgy

PhD in Metallurgy

Tools

METSIM

HSC Chemistry

Outotec

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in mineral processing and metallurgy, is seeking an innovative and experienced Metallurgist to join their cutting-edge, fully remote team. This role is critical for driving process improvements and optimizing mineral recovery across various mining operations. As a remote-first employee, you will leverage your expertise in hydrometallurgy, pyrometallurgy, and comminution to analyze process data, develop innovative solutions, and provide expert technical support to our project teams worldwide. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of metallurgical accounting, process simulation, and the application of advanced analytical techniques. You will work collaboratively with geologists, engineers, and plant managers through virtual channels, ensuring seamless communication and effective problem-solving. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the efficiency and sustainability of our client's operations from anywhere, contributing to significant advancements in the field. The role is conceptually based in **Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA**, but operates entirely remotely.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and interpret metallurgical process data from various mineral processing plants to identify areas for optimization.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve metal recovery, reduce operational costs, and enhance process efficiency.
• Conduct laboratory test work and pilot plant studies to evaluate new process technologies and reagents.
• Provide remote technical assistance and troubleshooting for plant operations.
• Collaborate with site metallurgists and operations teams to ensure effective implementation of process improvements.
• Prepare detailed metallurgical reports, technical presentations, and recommendations for management.
• Develop and maintain metallurgical models and simulations for process design and optimization.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in metallurgical science and technology.
• Ensure adherence to safety and environmental standards in all process-related activities.
• Contribute to knowledge sharing and best practice development within the global metallurgy team.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 6 years of hands-on experience in mineral processing and metallurgy, with a focus on base metals, precious metals, or industrial minerals.
• Proven expertise in process simulation software (e.g., METSIM, HSC Chemistry, Outotec).
• Strong knowledge of metallurgical accounting and quality control procedures.
• Experience with data analysis and statistical software.
• Excellent remote communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical capabilities.
• Familiarity with common laboratory techniques and analytical instrumentation.
• Must be able to operate effectively in a fully remote work environment.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Fully remote work arrangement offering excellent flexibility.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Opportunities for career advancement and professional development.
• Annual bonus structure based on individual and company performance.
• Access to cutting-edge metallurgical research and development.
• Generous paid time off and company holidays.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching.
• A vibrant and supportive virtual work culture.
• Exposure to diverse international mining projects.