Principal Metallurgist

Placements24; Centurion; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Competitive salary

Health & wellness

PTO

Retirement plan

Travel opportunities

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Metallurgist to join our client’s advanced R&D division. This role focuses on optimizing mineral processing techniques and delivering innovative metallurgical solutions for base and precious metals.

The position offers hybrid collaboration between on-site and remote work, with opportunities to influence process design and technical leadership in the mining industry. You will lead testing, mentor junior engineers, manage budgets, and stay current with

Qualifications

• Advanced degree (MSc or PhD) in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 10+ years of experience in mineral processing and metallurgy.
• Expertise in flotation, leaching, and smelting.
• Experience with process simulation and optimization software.
• Strong analytical and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead development, testing, and implementation of new mineral processing technologies and flowsheets.
• Provide expert metallurgical advice and troubleshooting support to operational sites.
• Conduct detailed metallurgical test work analysis and interpret results to optimize recovery and product quality.
• Develop and manage metallurgical budgets, project plans, and resource allocation.
• Mentor junior metallurgists and process engineers, fostering continuous improvement.
• Stay current with industry trends, research, and best practices in hydrometallurgy and pyrometallurgy.

Skills

Mineral processing

Flotation

Leaching

Smelting

Process simulation

Analytical skills

Communication

Education

MSc or PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Metallurgist to join their advanced research and development division. This role will play a crucial part in optimizing mineral processing techniques and developing innovative solutions for complex metallurgical challenges. While the role offers hybrid flexibility, involving collaboration both on-site and remotely, the core focus will be on driving metallurgical excellence and contributing to the company's technical leadership in the mining industry . You will work closely with a team of experts, influencing process design and troubleshooting complex operational issues.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development, testing, and implementation of new mineral processing technologies and flowsheets.
• Provide expert metallurgical advice and troubleshooting support to operational sites.
• Conduct detailed metallurgical test work analysis and interpret results to optimize recovery and product quality.
• Develop and manage metallurgical budgets, project plans, and resource allocation.
• Mentor junior metallurgists and process engineers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Stay current with industry trends, research, and best practices in hydrometallurgy and pyrometallurgy.

Requirements

• Advanced degree (MSc or PhD) in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in mineral processing and metallurgy, with a focus on base metals or precious metals.
• Deep understanding of various mineral processing techniques, including flotation, leaching, and smelting.
• Proven experience in process simulation and optimization software.
• Strong analytical skills and a track record of successful project delivery.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a hybrid team setting.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive health and wellness programs.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility between remote and on-site work.
• Generous paid time off and retirement savings plan.
• Opportunities for international travel and professional development.
• A stimulating work environment with a focus on innovation and scientific rigor.