Principal Metallurgist

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement benefits

Professional growth opportunities

International exposure

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town, Western Cape, seeks a Principal Metallurgist with a proven track record in mineral processing to lead design, optimization and R&D across multiple sites.

The role combines leadership of a metallurgical team, project delivery, and strategic process improvements; hybrid working near Cape Town is offered with opportunities for international exposure and advanced facilities.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 10 years in mineral processing and metallurgy, with leadership experience.
• Expertise in comminution, flotation, leaching and related processes.
• Proficient in METSIM/JKSimMet and statistical analysis.
• Strong leadership, communication and presentation skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development and optimization of mineral processing flowsheets for various commodities.
• Oversee pilot plant operations and scale up results to full-scale production.
• Perform detailed metallurgical test work and produce technical reports.
• Provide expert consultancy and troubleshoot complex processing issues across sites.
• Develop strategies to improve efficiency, reduce costs and enhance recoveries.
• Stay abreast of new technologies and innovations in metallurgical processing.
• Collaborate with operations, R&D and management to meet strategic goals.
• Mentor junior metallurgists, engineers and laboratory staff.
• Ensure adherence to health, safety, environmental and quality standards.
• Manage metallurgical projects, budgets and timelines.

Skills

Leadership

Metallurgy

Project management

Data analysis

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in Metallurgy or related

Tools

METSIM

JKSimMet

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant player in the mineral processing and metallurgy sector, is looking for a highly experienced Principal Metallurgist to join their esteemed operation in Cape Town, Western Cape. This senior position demands a forward-thinking individual with a proven track record in optimizing mineral processing circuits and developing innovative metallurgical solutions. You will lead critical research and development initiatives, provide expert technical consultancy, and mentor a team of metallurgists and technicians. Your expertise will be crucial in driving process improvements, increasing recovery rates, and ensuring the economic viability of complex ore bodies. This role offers the chance to shape the future of mineral processing within a company committed to sustainability and technological advancement, based in the vibrant city of Cape Town, Western Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of mineral processing flowsheets for various commodities.
• Oversee pilot plant operations and interpret results to scale up processes for full-scale production.
• Conduct detailed metallurgical test work, analyze data, and prepare comprehensive technical reports.
• Provide expert metallurgical advice and troubleshooting for operational challenges across different sites.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve process efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance metal recoveries.
• Stay abreast of new technologies and innovations in mineral processing and metallurgy.
• Collaborate closely with operations, R&D, and management teams to achieve strategic objectives.
• Mentor and guide junior metallurgists, engineers, and laboratory staff.
• Ensure adherence to health, safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Manage metallurgical projects, budgets, and timelines effectively.

Requirements

• A Master's or Ph.D. in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of extensive experience in mineral processing and metallurgy, preferably within a supervisory or leadership capacity.
• Demonstrated expertise in comminution, flotation, leaching, and other relevant mineral processing techniques.
• Strong knowledge of process simulation software (e.g., METSIM, JKSimMet) and statistical analysis.
• Proven ability to conduct root cause analysis and implement effective solutions for complex processing issues.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and presentation skills.
• Experience in managing and executing research and development projects.
• Familiarity with diverse ore types and processing challenges.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and independently, demonstrating strong initiative.
• Based in or willing to relocate to the vicinity of Cape Town, Western Cape for hybrid working arrangements.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive salary package, comprehensive medical aid and retirement benefits, and ample opportunities for professional growth and international exposure. You will be part of a forward-thinking organization that values expertise and innovation, with excellent facilities in Cape Town, Western Cape. The company provides a dynamic work environment, fosters continuous learning, and supports participation in industry conferences and development programs. This position represents a significant opportunity to make a substantial impact on the future of mineral processing and contribute to groundbreaking projects.