Metallurgist - Processing

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 650,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Professional development

On-site in Polokwane

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Metallurgist to join our mining client in Polokwane. The role focuses on optimizing mineral recovery and efficient processing throughout the plant, with responsibilities from monitoring circuits to reporting on performance.

The ideal candidate will have a metallurgy degree and 5+ years in mineral processing, with hands-on lab skills and experience using process simulation tools. Excellent analytical and collaboration abilities are required to drive improvements.

Qualifications

• Degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 5+ years in mineral processing metallurgy.
• Hands-on experience with mineral processing equipment and techniques.
• Proficiency in metallurgical laboratory analysis and data interpretation.

Responsibilities

• Monitor mineral processing circuits (crushing, grinding, flotation, leaching).
• Conduct laboratory test work to evaluate processing techniques.
• Troubleshoot process upsets and implement corrective actions.
• Prepare technical reports on process performance and metallurgical accounting.
• Collaborate with operations and maintenance teams to optimise plant operation.

Skills

Mineral processing

Metallurgy

Process modeling

Laboratory analysis

Data interpretation

Troubleshooting

Education

Metallurgy degree

Tools

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a dedicated Metallurgist with a focus on mineral processing to join their team in Polokwane. This role is central to optimizing the recovery of valuable minerals from ore, ensuring efficient and cost-effective processing operations. You will be involved in process monitoring, troubleshooting, laboratory analysis, and the implementation of process improvements to enhance yield and product quality. The successful candidate will bring a strong understanding of various metallurgical principles and practical experience in mineral processing plants within the Limpopo province.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and analyze the performance of mineral processing circuits (e.g., crushing, grinding, flotation, leaching).
• Conduct laboratory test work to evaluate new processing techniques and optimize existing ones.
• Troubleshoot process upsets and implement corrective actions to maintain operational efficiency.
• Prepare technical reports on process performance, metallurgical accounting, and improvement initiatives.
• Collaborate with operations and maintenance teams to ensure effective plant operation and maintenance.
• Stay abreast of new metallurgical technologies and best practices.

Requirements

• Degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in mineral processing metallurgy, preferably in base metals or precious metals.
• Hands‑on experience with common mineral processing equipment and techniques.
• Proficiency in metallurgical laboratory analysis and data interpretation.
• Strong understanding of process simulation and modeling software is an advantage.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and communication skills.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to work in a key mining region of South Africa.
• Support for professional development and continuous learning.
• A collaborative team environment focused on operational excellence.
• Located in Polokwane, offering a good balance of work and lifestyle.