Principal Metallurgist

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation package

Bonus potential

Medical and dental coverage

Retirement savings plan

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 in Vereeniging, Gauteng, seeks a Principal Metallurgist to lead advanced processing operations, drive process optimization, and ensure safe, compliant, high-yield metallurgical performance.

The role requires a Master’s or PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering and 10+ years in mining/metallurgical operations, with strong analytical and leadership skills. The position is on-site in Vereeniging with relocation support available.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 10+ years in metallurgical development, optimization, and plant operations.
• Experience with precious/base metals processing; safety and environmental standards.
• Proven leadership and project management skills.
• Experience with METSIM or JKSimMet is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead metallurgical process improvements to boost yield and efficiency.
• Oversee unit operations including comminution, flotation, leaching, refining.
• Mentor metallurgists and technicians; manage budgets and plans.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Drive R&D initiatives and collaborate with engineering and ops teams.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Team management

Technical mentorship

Education

Master's or PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Tools

METSIM

JKSimMet

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the metallurgical and mining sectors, is seeking a highly experienced and innovative Principal Metallurgist to lead their advanced processing operations in Vereeniging, Gauteng. This senior role is responsible for the strategic direction, optimization, and continuous improvement of metallurgical processes to maximize recovery and product quality. The Principal Metallurgist will provide expert technical leadership, drive research and development initiatives, and ensure compliance with stringent environmental and safety standards. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of complex metallurgical circuits, strong analytical skills, and a proven ability to manage challenging projects. Join a company dedicated to technological advancement and sustainable resource management in a key industrial hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of metallurgical process improvements to enhance efficiency, yield, and cost-effectiveness.
• Conduct complex metallurgical test work and pilot plant trials, interpreting results to inform process design and optimization.
• Oversee the operation and performance of various metallurgical units, including comminution, flotation, leaching, and refining.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to a team of metallurgists and technicians.
• Develop and manage metallurgical budgets and project plans.
• Ensure adherence to all health, safety, and environmental regulations pertaining to metallurgical operations.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex processing challenges to minimize downtime and maximize output.
• Stay abreast of emerging metallurgical technologies and assess their applicability to our operations.
• Collaborate with R&D, engineering, and operations teams to drive innovation and continuous improvement.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, feasibility studies, and presentations for senior management.

Requirements

• A Master's or PhD degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of hands-on experience in metallurgical process development, optimization, and plant operations within the mining industry.
• Extensive experience with complex processing of precious and base metals, ferroalloys, or related materials.
• In-depth knowledge of metallurgical principles, thermodynamics, kinetics, and phase equilibria.
• Proven ability to manage and lead technical teams effectively.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Experience with metallurgical simulation software (e.g., METSIM, JKSimMet) is advantageous.
• Excellent report writing and presentation skills.
• A strong commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and operational excellence.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive executive compensation package, including a competitive base salary, significant annual bonus potential, comprehensive medical and dental coverage, and a robust retirement savings plan. We provide exceptional opportunities for professional growth, including advanced training, leadership development programs, and exposure to cutting-edge metallurgical research. This role is based in the industrial heartland of Vereeniging. Relocation assistance and support will be provided to facilitate a smooth transition for the successful candidate.