Principal Metallurgical Process Engineer – Lead Innovation

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Metallurgical Process Engineer in East London, Eastern Cape. This senior role guides design, optimization, and troubleshooting across metallurgical operations, driving efficiency and recovery improvements while implementing advanced technologies.

With 12+ years in metallurgical process engineering within mining, you will lead technical projects, mentor staff, and ensure safety, environmental, and quality standards are met. A Master’s or PhD is required.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 12 years of progressive experience in metallurgical process engineering within mining/minerals.
• Extensive knowledge of metallurgical processes (e.g., comminution, flotation, leaching, hydrometallurgy, pyrometallurgy).

Responsibilities

• Lead development and optimization of metallurgical processes for enhanced recovery and cost reduction.
• Provide expert technical support and troubleshooting for plant operations.
• Conduct feasibility studies and pilot plant trials for new technologies.
• Develop process design packages including PFDs, P&IDs, and equipment specs.
• Run metallurgical simulations to predict process behavior and opportunities for improvement.
• Collaborate with project teams to ensure successful execution and commissioning.
• Mentor junior engineers and advance departmental capability.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Analytical skills

Communication

Education

Master's in Metallurgy

PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Eng

Tools

METSIM

Outotec HSC Chemistry

GEMS

Job description

Placements24 seeks a Principal Metallurgical Process Engineer in East London, Eastern Cape. This senior role guides design, optimization, and troubleshooting across metallurgical operations, driving efficiency and recovery improvements while implementing advanced technologies.

With 12+ years in metallurgical process engineering within mining, you will lead technical projects, mentor staff, and ensure safety, environmental, and quality standards are met. A Master’s or PhD is required.