Principal Metallurgist

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

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based salary

Medical aid & retirement fund

Career growth & international exposure

State-of-the-art research facilities

Flexible working arrangements

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Metallurgist to drive the strategic direction of metallurgical practices at our Randburg facility, leading research and development, troubleshooting complex processing challenges and mentoring engineering teams.

The role requires extensive expertise in mineral processing, hydrometallurgy, pyrometallurgy, or flotation, with a proven track record in optimizing recovery and reducing costs while upholding safety and environmental standards.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Metallurgy or related field.
• 10+ years in mineral processing and metallurgy.
• Experience in hydrometallurgy, pyrometallurgy, or flotation.
• Proven track record leading R&D projects.
• Strong data analysis and problem-solving skills.
• Professional engineering registration desirable.
• Gauteng mining hub experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead metallurgical test programs from lab to full-scale operations.
• Develop and optimize metallurgical processes for various minerals.
• Conduct advanced mineralogical analyses to inform design.
• Provide technical guidance to teams.
• Research and implement innovative metallurgical technologies.
• Develop metallurgical models for prediction and optimization.
• Prepare reports and cost estimates for projects.
• Ensure safety, environmental, and quality compliance.

Skills

Data analysis

Statistical modeling

Leadership

Communication

Mineral processing

Hydrometallurgy

Pyrometallurgy

Flotation

R&D leadership

Education

Master's or PhD in Metallurgy or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major force in the global mining industry, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Principal Metallurgist to join their innovative processing facility in Randburg, Gauteng. This senior position is central to optimizing mineral processing operations, driving efficiency, and developing cutting-edge metallurgical solutions. The successful candidate will be a key technical advisor, leading research and development initiatives, troubleshooting complex processing challenges, and contributing to the strategic direction of the company's metallurgical practices. This role demands a deep understanding of various mineral processing techniques and a passion for advancing the field within the context of South Africa's rich mining heritage. The position is crucial for maximizing resource recovery and ensuring sustainable operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage metallurgical test work programs, from laboratory scale to pilot plant and full-scale operations.
• Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot complex metallurgical processes for a variety of mineral commodities.
• Conduct advanced mineralogical analyses and interpret data to inform process design and improvement.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to metallurgical and engineering teams.
• Research and implement innovative metallurgical technologies to enhance recovery, reduce costs, and improve environmental performance.
• Develop and maintain metallurgical models and simulation tools for process prediction and optimization.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, feasibility studies, and capital cost estimates for new projects and process upgrades.
• Ensure all metallurgical activities in Randburg comply with safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Collaborate with geology, mining, and engineering departments to ensure integrated project development.

Requirements

• A Master's or Ph.D. degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of intensive experience in mineral processing and metallurgy, with a strong focus on mining applications.
• Demonstrated expertise in hydrometallurgy, pyrometallurgy, or flotation processes relevant to South African mining resources.
• Proven track record in leading R&D projects and implementing successful process improvements.
• Excellent understanding of mineral processing equipment and plant operations.
• Strong data analysis, statistical modeling, and problem-solving capabilities.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Professional registration with a relevant engineering body is highly desirable.
• Experience working within the Gauteng mining hub is a significant advantage.

Benefits

• An attractive, performance-based salary and bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical aid, life insurance, and retirement fund contributions.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement and international exposure.
• Access to state-of-the-art research facilities and advanced technologies.
• A stimulating work environment with a focus on innovation and professional growth.
• Potential for flexible working arrangements in line with company policy.