Principal Metallurgist

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package with performance bonus

Medical aid and retirement fund

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Metallurgist for its Mossel Bay, Western Cape client. This senior role leads a technical team, drives process optimization, and improves mineral recoveries.

You will oversee metallurgical processing, mentor engineers, perform test work and simulations, and collaborate with engineering, operations, and R&D to implement upgrades. The ideal candidate holds MSc or PhD, 10+ years in mining metallurgy, and a track record of debottlenecking and cost reduction, with

Qualifications

• 10+ years in metallurgical process development and optimization in mining/minerals
• Proven ability to troubleshoot complex metallurgical problems
• Strong analytical and communication skills

Responsibilities

• Oversee and optimize all metallurgical processing operations (crushing, milling, flotation, leaching, refining)
• Lead test work, simulations, and data analysis to identify improvements
• Mentor and manage a team of metallurgists and technicians
• Collaborate with engineering, operations and R&D to implement upgrades and technologies
• Ensure safety, environmental and quality standards compliance

Skills

Metallurgy expertise

Process optimization

Data analysis

Troubleshooting

Leadership

Education

MSc/PhD in Metallurgy or related field

Tools

METSIM

Outotec HSC Chemistry

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in mineral processing and metallurgy, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Principal Metallurgist to lead their technical team in Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This senior role is pivotal in driving process optimization, ensuring efficient recovery of valuable minerals, and spearheading research and development initiatives. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in various metallurgical processes, strong analytical capabilities, and a proven ability to troubleshoot complex processing challenges. You will play a critical role in enhancing operational efficiency, improving metal recoveries, and contributing to the company's sustained success in the competitive global market. This position requires hands-on leadership and a strategic approach to metallurgical challenges.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and optimize all aspects of metallurgical processing operations, including comminution, flotation, leaching, and refining.
• Conduct comprehensive metallurgical test work, process simulations, and data analysis to identify areas for improvement.
• Develop and implement strategies to enhance mineral recovery rates, reduce operating costs, and improve product quality.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex metallurgical and operational problems encountered in the plant.
• Lead and mentor a team of metallurgists and technicians, fostering a culture of technical excellence and continuous improvement.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and best practices in mineral processing and metallurgy.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, and R&D teams to implement process upgrades and new technologies.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, process documentation, and recommendations for management.
• Ensure all metallurgical activities comply with safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Manage laboratory operations and ensure the accuracy and reliability of analytical results.

Requirements

• MSc or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in metallurgical process development and optimization within the mining and minerals industry.
• Extensive knowledge of mineral processing circuits and equipment (e.g., crushers, mills, flotation cells, thickeners).
• Proven experience in troubleshooting and debottlenecking complex metallurgical processes.
• Strong understanding of chemical principles, thermodynamics, and kinetics relevant to mineral processing.
• Proficiency in metallurgical simulation software (e.g., METSIM, Outotec HSC Chemistry).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management capabilities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information effectively.
• Experience with precious metals and base metals processing is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive salary package, complemented by performance bonuses, comprehensive medical aid, and retirement fund contributions.
• Significant opportunities for professional development and advanced training are provided.
• The role is based in the scenic coastal town of Mossel Bay, Western Cape , offering a desirable lifestyle.
• Exposure to diverse and challenging metallurgical projects, along with clear career progression pathways within a leading company, are key benefits.
• This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned metallurgist to make a substantial impact.