Principal Metallurgist

Placements24; Klerksdorp; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Performance incentives

Job summary

Placements24 in North West, Klerksdorp, is seeking a Principal Metallurgist to lead advanced metallurgical development and optimize processes for gold, PGMs, and base metals. You will mentor teams, drive innovation, and collaborate with operations, engineering, and R&D in a cutting-edge facility.

The role focuses on improving recovery, product quality, and cost efficiency, balancing laboratory work with site analysis in a hybrid setup, and shaping metallurgical strategies across multiple mineral

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 12 years of experience in metallurgical processing within the mining industry, with significant R&D or advanced process development experience.
• Proven expertise in the metallurgy of gold, platinum group metals, or base metals.
• Extensive knowledge of comminution, flotation, solid-liquid separation, and hydrometallurgical/pyrometallurgical processes.
• Proficiency with metallurgical simulation software and data analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of mineralogy and its impact on metallurgical performance.
• Excellent leadership, project management, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience in technical writing and presentation.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing laboratory work in Klerksdorp, North West with analysis and reporting.

Responsibilities

• Lead metallurgical test work programs from bench to pilot scale.
• Develop and optimize metallurgical processes to improve recovery, grade, and throughput.
• Troubleshoot complex metallurgical issues in plant operations.
• Conduct detailed metallurgical accounting and analysis to identify improvements.
• Evaluate and implement new metallurgical technologies and methodologies.
• Provide expert metallurgical advice to plant operations and project teams.
• Mentor and guide junior metallurgists and technicians.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Problem solving

Technical writing

Data analysis

Education

Master's degree / PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Metallurgical simulation software

Data analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished name in the precious metals sector, is seeking a Principal Metallurgist to join their advanced research and development facility in Klerksdorp, North West . This senior-level position involves leading complex metallurgical process development, optimization, and troubleshooting for a range of mineral commodities. The Principal Metallurgist will be responsible for driving innovation in areas such as comminution, flotation, leaching, and refining, aiming to enhance recovery rates, improve product quality, and reduce operational costs. You will provide expert technical guidance, mentor junior metallurgists, and collaborate closely with operations, engineering, and R&D teams. This role requires a deep understanding of mineral processing principles and a passion for solving challenging metallurgical problems within a cutting-edge research environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage metallurgical test work programs, from bench scale to pilot scale.
• Develop and optimize metallurgical processes to improve recovery, grade, and throughput.
• Troubleshoot complex metallurgical issues encountered in plant operations.
• Conduct detailed metallurgical accounting and analysis to identify areas for improvement.
• Evaluate and implement new metallurgical technologies and methodologies.
• Provide expert metallurgical advice and technical support to plant operations and project teams.
• Mentor and guide junior metallurgists and technicians, fostering their professional development.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, research papers, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Ensure adherence to all safety, environmental, and quality standards in metallurgical activities.
• Collaborate with research institutions and technology providers to stay at the forefront of metallurgical innovation.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 12 years of experience in metallurgical processing within the mining industry, with significant R&D or advanced process development experience.
• Proven expertise in the metallurgy of gold, platinum group metals, or base metals.
• Extensive knowledge of comminution, flotation, solid-liquid separation, and hydrometallurgical/pyrometallurgical processes.
• Proficiency with metallurgical simulation software and data analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of mineralogy and its impact on metallurgical performance.
• Excellent leadership, project management, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience in technical writing and presentation.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing laboratory work in Klerksdorp, North West with analysis and reporting.
• A track record of innovation and successful process improvement in metallurgy.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive remuneration package, including significant performance incentives and comprehensive benefits such as medical aid and retirement fund contributions. Opportunities for international travel, professional development, and advancement within a leading organization are extensive. The position is based at our state-of-the-art facility in Klerksdorp, North West , providing access to advanced equipment and a collaborative research community. Our client prioritizes employee well-being and provides a stimulating work environment focused on innovation and technical excellence.