Principal Metallurgist

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Life insurance

Retirement fund contribution

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal is seeking a Principal Metallurgist with a MSc/PhD and 10+ years in mineral processing to lead R&D, optimize plant operations, and guide technical teams on major mining projects.

This on-site role requires strategic thinking, strong leadership, and a proven ability to deliver process improvements, enhanced recovery, and cost-effective metallurgical solutions across base metals and industrial minerals.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mineral processing and metallurgy.
• Proven experience with metallurgical process simulation software (e.g., METSIM, JKsimMet).

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of innovative metallurgical processes for extraction and recovery of valuable minerals.
• Conduct detailed metallurgical test work, pilot plant trials, and plant-scale investigations to optimize process parameters.
• Analyze process data, identify bottlenecks, and develop solutions to enhance recovery and reduce costs.
• Provide expert metallurgical advice and technical support to plant operations teams, engineering departments, and senior management.
• Develop and maintain process simulation models to predict performance.

Skills

Metallurgy

Chemical Eng

Leadership

Project mgmt

Education

MSc Metallurgy

PhD Metallurgy

Tools

METSIM

JKSimMet

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized entity in the mining and minerals processing sector, is seeking an exceptional Principal Metallurgist to be based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This is a critical, on-site position requiring extensive hands-on experience and a deep understanding of mineral processing techniques. The Principal Metallurgist will lead research and development initiatives, optimize existing plant operations, and provide expert technical guidance across a portfolio of significant mining projects. You will be instrumental in driving process improvements, enhancing recovery rates, and ensuring the economic viability of mineral extraction. This role demands a strategic thinker with a proven track record in complex metallurgical challenges.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of innovative metallurgical processes for the extraction and recovery of valuable minerals.
• Conduct detailed metallurgical test work, pilot plant trials, and plant-scale investigations to optimize process parameters and improve efficiencies.
• Analyze process data, identify bottlenecks, and develop solutions to enhance recovery, reduce costs, and improve product quality.
• Provide expert metallurgical advice and technical support to plant operations teams, engineering departments, and senior management.
• Develop and maintain process simulation models to predict performance and explore alternative processing routes.
• Oversee the characterization of ore bodies and the assessment of their amenability to various metallurgical treatment methods.
• Ensure adherence to stringent safety, health, and environmental regulations in all metallurgical operations.
• Mentor and guide junior metallurgists and technical staff, fostering their professional growth and development.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, feasibility studies, and economic evaluations of metallurgical projects.
• Stay current with advancements in metallurgical science and technology, identifying opportunities for innovation and competitive advantage.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mineral processing and metallurgy, with a strong focus on base metals, precious metals, or industrial minerals.
• Proven expertise in various unit processes such as comminution, flotation, leaching, solid-liquid separation, and refining.
• Demonstrated experience with metallurgical process simulation software (e.g., METSIM, JKsimMet).
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong leadership and project management capabilities, with the ability to manage multiple complex tasks simultaneously.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively convey complex technical information to diverse audiences.
• Experience in R&D, process development, and operational troubleshooting.
• Commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and environmental compliance.
• Ability to work effectively in a dynamic, fast-paced operational environment.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid, life insurance, and a generous retirement fund contribution. This position is based in the vibrant coastal city of Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . Opportunities for professional growth, international travel for conferences and site visits, and career advancement within a leading organization are significant. The company fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration, providing access to cutting-edge research facilities and technologies. We are committed to supporting our employees' well-being and professional development through continuous learning programs and challenging projects that drive industry advancement.