Principal Metallurgist

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Attractive salary

Performance bonus

Health insurance

Retirement plan

International travel

Relocation assistance

Lab & pilot plant access

Job summary

Placements24 in Polokwane, Limpopo, ZA, is seeking a Principal Metallurgist to lead mineral processing initiatives and drive plant performance. You will oversee metallurgical test work, process development, and provide senior technical support to operations, shaping strategy and committing to high-quality outcomes.

The ideal candidate holds an MSc or PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering, with 10+ years in mineral processing and leadership experience as a principal or lead metallurgist.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years of extensive experience in mineral processing and metallurgy, with base metals or precious metals emphasis.
• Experience as a Principal or Lead Metallurgist.

Responsibilities

• Lead development, optimization, and troubleshooting of mineral processing plants.
• Design and interpret metallurgical test programs, including pilot plant operations.
• Provide expert metallurgical guidance on process design, equipment selection, and operational improvements.
• Analyze metallurgical data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement.
• Develop and implement strategies to enhance recovery rates and product quality.
• Mentor and guide a team of metallurgists and process engineers.
• Stay abreast of latest metallurgical technologies and methodologies.
• Prepare metallurgical reports, feasibility studies, and technical presentations.
• Collaborate with site management, operations staff, and R&D teams.
• Ensure metallurgical operations meet environmental and safety standards.

Skills

Leadership

Problem solving

Data analysis

Communication

Education

MSc or PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Metso Outotec

HSC Chemistry

JKSimMet

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading entity in the Mining sector, is actively searching for a distinguished Principal Metallurgist to join their esteemed operations in Polokwane, Limpopo, ZA . This senior position requires an individual with profound expertise in mineral processing and extractive metallurgy to drive innovation and optimize plant performance. The role involves leading metallurgical test work, process development, and providing high-level technical support to operational teams. We are seeking a seasoned professional who can contribute to strategic decision-making and spearhead complex metallurgical challenges. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional analytical skills and a proven history of successfully improving recovery rates and product quality. This opportunity in Polokwane, Limpopo, ZA offers the chance to make a significant impact on large-scale mining projects and shape the future of our client's metallurgical practices. Your leadership will be key in ensuring efficient and sustainable mineral processing operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development, optimization, and troubleshooting of mineral processing plants.
• Design and interpret metallurgical test programs, including pilot plant operations.
• Provide expert metallurgical guidance on process design, equipment selection, and operational improvements.
• Analyze metallurgical data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement.
• Develop and implement strategies to enhance recovery rates, product quality, and operational cost-effectiveness.
• Mentor and guide a team of metallurgists and process engineers.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in metallurgical technologies and methodologies.
• Prepare comprehensive metallurgical reports, feasibility studies, and technical presentations.
• Collaborate effectively with site management, operational staff, and R&D teams.
• Ensure metallurgical operations adhere to stringent environmental and safety standards.

Requirements

• MSc or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of extensive experience in mineral processing and metallurgy, with a strong focus on base metals or precious metals.
• Demonstrated experience in a Principal or Lead Metallurgist role.
• In-depth knowledge of comminution, flotation, leaching, and other relevant metallurgical processes.
• Proficiency in metallurgical simulation software (e.g., Metso Outotec, HSC Chemistry, JKSimMet).
• Proven ability to lead R&D initiatives and implement process improvements in a plant environment.
• Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong report writing and presentation capabilities.
• Experience working in or managing projects related to Polokwane, Limpopo, ZA mining environments is a distinct advantage.

Benefits

• An attractive annual salary of ZAR, commensurate with experience.
• Generous bonus structure tied to performance and company profitability.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement savings plan.
• Opportunities for international travel and professional development.
• Relocation support for successful candidates relocating to Polokwane, Limpopo, ZA.
• Access to cutting-edge laboratory facilities and pilot plant equipment.
• A challenging and dynamic work environment fostering innovation and growth.