Principal Metallurgist

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

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

International travel opportunities

Comprehensive benefits package

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Metallurgist for a leading mining enterprise in South Africa. The role focuses on developing advanced metallurgical strategies, optimizing recovery, and ensuring product quality while managing costs.

You will guide plant operations, lead R&D, and mentor teams across hybrid site responsibilities. The ideal candidate brings a PhD/masters in metallurgy or related field with 10+ years in mining metallurgical processes, and proven leadership in base and precious

Qualifications

• Master’s or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 10+ years in metallurgical process development and mining operations.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and optimization of metallurgical processes for various mineral commodities.
• Oversee pilot plant studies and full-scale plant operations for efficient mineral recovery.
• Conduct metallurgical test work, data analysis, and process modeling to identify improvements.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and implement corrective actions to enhance performance.
• Develop and maintain process control strategies for product quality and stability.
• Manage metallurgical R&D projects, evaluating new technologies and methods.
• Provide expert guidance to site metallurgists and plant personnel.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health, environmental, and regulatory standards.

Skills

Metallurgy leadership

Data analysis

Communication

Hybrid work capable

Education

Master's degree in Metallurgy

PhD in Metallurgy or related field

Tools

METSIM

JKSimMet

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent mining enterprise, is actively seeking a highly skilled and visionary Principal Metallurgist to join their esteemed operations based in Tembisa, Gauteng . This senior position is crucial for driving innovation and optimizing metallurgical processes across various commodities. You will be instrumental in developing and implementing advanced metallurgical strategies, ensuring maximum recovery and product quality while maintaining operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The role involves leading research and development initiatives, troubleshooting complex processing challenges, and providing expert guidance to plant operations and engineering teams. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned metallurgist to make a significant impact on a large-scale mining operation, contributing to its long-term success and sustainability. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of mineral processing, extensive experience in leadership, and a passion for advancing metallurgical science within the mining industry. You will be expected to stay abreast of industry trends and emerging technologies, integrating them into practical operational improvements. Your strategic input will be vital in shaping the future of our client's processing capabilities. This role demands a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, driving tangible results in a challenging environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and optimization of metallurgical processes for various mineral commodities.
• Oversee pilot plant studies and full-scale plant operations, ensuring efficient and effective mineral recovery.
• Conduct in-depth metallurgical test work, data analysis, and process modeling to identify areas for improvement.
• Troubleshoot complex operational issues and implement corrective actions to enhance performance and minimize losses.
• Develop and maintain process control strategies to ensure consistent product quality and operational stability.
• Manage metallurgical research and development projects, evaluating new technologies and methodologies.
• Provide expert technical support and mentorship to site metallurgists and plant personnel.
• Ensure all metallurgical operations comply with safety, health, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Collaborate with research institutions and technology providers to explore innovative processing solutions.
• Prepare comprehensive reports on process performance, R&D findings, and strategic recommendations for senior management.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in metallurgical process development and operations, specifically within the mining sector.
• Demonstrated expertise in base metals, precious metals, or bulk commodities processing.
• Strong proficiency in metallurgical simulation software (e.g., METSIM, JKSimMet) and statistical analysis.
• Proven track record of successfully leading R&D projects and implementing process improvements.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing on-site and remote responsibilities.
• Professional registration with a relevant engineering body is advantageous.
• Strong understanding of process safety management principles.
• Experience in a supervisory or leadership role is essential.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package and performance-related incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid, life insurance, and retirement savings plan.
• Opportunities for international travel and professional development.
• Relocation assistance for successful candidates.
• Access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and processing plants.
• A dynamic and challenging work environment with significant autonomy.
• Exposure to diverse mineral processing challenges and innovative solutions.
• Contribution to a company committed to responsible mining practices.
• Structured career progression pathways.
• Generous leave allocation.