Metallurgist - Processing Plant

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 720,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work

Medical and retirement benefits

Incentive scheme

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a skilled Metallurgist to join the Durban processing plant team, driving optimization of extraction and recovery of minerals. You will collaborate with operators, engineers and lab staff to troubleshoot, implement new technologies and ensure high-quality concentrates.

Requirements include a Bachelor’s degree in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering and 5+ years in mineral processing, with hands-on experience across crushers, mills, flotation cells and leaching circuits.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 5 years' experience in mineral processing, hydrometallurgy or pyrometallurgy.
• Hands-on experience with crushers, mills, flotation cells, leaching circuits.
• Proficiency in data analysis and metallurgical accounting software.
• Strong teamwork and safety mindset in chemical processing environments.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and control metallurgical processes to optimize performance and recovery.
• Conduct laboratory test work to evaluate new methods and optimize circuits.
• Troubleshoot issues, identify root causes, and minimize downtime and losses.
• Analyze process data, generate reports, and propose performance improvements.
• Collaborate with maintenance and engineering to ensure safe, efficient operation.
• Stay updated on industry advances and introduce innovative metallurgical practices.

Skills

Metallurgy knowledge

Mineral processing

Data analysis

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Metallurgical accounting software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a skilled Metallurgist to join their processing plant team in Durban , playing a vital role in optimizing the extraction and recovery of valuable minerals. This position requires a deep understanding of mineral processing techniques and a commitment to driving efficiency and yield improvements. You will work closely with plant operators, engineers, and laboratory staff to troubleshoot process issues, implement new technologies, and ensure the consistent production of high-quality mineral concentrates. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to the operational success of a key mining facility on the coast of KwaZulu-Natal.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and control metallurgical processes to ensure optimal performance and recovery rates.
• Conduct laboratory test work to evaluate new processing methods and optimize existing circuits.
• Troubleshoot operational issues, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions to minimize downtime and losses.
• Analyze process data, generate reports, and provide recommendations for performance improvement.
• Collaborate with the maintenance and engineering teams to ensure equipment is operating efficiently and safely.
• Stay abreast of industry advancements and introduce innovative metallurgical practices to enhance plant performance.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in mineral processing, with a strong focus on hydrometallurgy or pyrometallurgy.
• Hands-on experience with various processing equipment (e.g., crushers, mills, flotation cells, leaching circuits).
• Proficiency in data analysis and metallurgical accounting software.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Strong understanding of safety protocols within a chemical processing environment.

Benefits

• Competitive annual salary with a performance-related incentive scheme.
• Comprehensive medical, retirement, and risk benefit coverages.
• Hybrid work arrangement offering a balance between site-based work and remote tasks.
• Opportunities for professional development and attending relevant industry conferences.
• A supportive team culture focused on innovation and operational excellence in Durban .