Principal Metallurgist - Base Metals Processing

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban, South Africa, seeks a distinguished Principal Metallurgist to lead base metals processing, optimize recovery, and advance hydrometallurgy and pyrometallurgy across operations.

You will design and supervise new metallurgical circuits, mentor engineers, manage budgets, and collaborate with R&D and plant teams to deploy innovative technologies in a demanding mining environment.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• At least 15 years in base metals processing, with lead/principal exposure.
• Deep knowledge of hydrometallurgy and pyrometallurgy.
• Proven track record in optimization, troubleshooting and tech adoption.
• Experience with simulation software and statistical analysis.

Responsibilities

• Lead development, optimization, and troubleshooting of base metals processes.
• Guide test work, data analysis, and interpretation to improve recovery and grade.
• Design and implement new metallurgical circuits and technologies.
• Provide expert consultation to operations, engineering, and R&D.
• Manage budgets and CAPEX proposals for process improvements.
• Mentor junior staff and present findings to stakeholders.
• Ensure safety, environmental, and quality standards are met.

Skills

Leadership

Problem solving

Project management

Mentoring

Education

Master's or PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Metallurgical simulation software

Statistical analysis tools

Job description

About the Role Our client, a major diversified mining group, is seeking to appoint a distinguished Principal Metallurgist to oversee and advance their base metals processing operations in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This senior technical leadership position is crucial for optimizing existing metallurgical processes, developing new innovative technologies, and ensuring maximum metal recovery and product quality. The Principal Metallurgist will provide expert guidance on all aspects of hydrometallurgy and pyrometallurgy, driving efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This role demands a deep scientific understanding, extensive practical experience in complex mineral processing, and the ability to lead research and development initiatives. Join our client in Durban and shape the future of base metals processing in a challenging and rewarding environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development, optimization, and troubleshooting of metallurgical processes for base metals (e.g., copper, nickel, zinc, lead).
• Conduct in-depth metallurgical test work, data analysis, and interpretation to improve recovery, grade, and process efficiency.
• Design and oversee the implementation of new metallurgical circuits and technologies.
• Provide expert technical consultation and support to plant operations, engineering, and R&D teams.
• Develop and manage metallurgical budgets and capital expenditure proposals for process improvements.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in metallurgical science and technology, identifying opportunities for innovation.
• Ensure all metallurgical operations in KwaZulu-Natal comply with safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Mentor and guide junior metallurgists and technicians, fostering technical expertise within the team.
• Author and present technical papers, reports, and findings to internal and external stakeholders.
• Collaborate with research institutions and technology providers to advance metallurgical capabilities.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or Ph.D. in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in base metals processing, with a significant portion in a principal or lead role.
• Extensive knowledge and hands-hon experience in both hydrometallurgical and pyrometallurgical processes.
• Proven track record in process optimization, troubleshooting, and implementing new metallurgical technologies.
• Proficiency in metallurgical simulation software and statistical analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of mineralogy, chemistry, and physical chemistry relevant to metal extraction.
• Excellent leadership, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• Exceptional communication and presentation abilities, capable of conveying complex technical information.
• Demonstrated ability to mentor and develop technical teams.
• Experience in the South African mining and processing context is highly preferred.
• Must be able to reside and work in the Durban area and travel to operational sites as needed.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, performance-based incentives, and a comprehensive benefits package including extensive medical coverage, a generous retirement fund, and life assurance.
• Professional development and career advancement are strongly emphasized, with opportunities for international exposure.
• Employees join a leading organization at the forefront of metallurgical innovation, working with cutting-edge technology.
• The role provides a unique opportunity to influence significant operational improvements and contribute to the company's strategic goals in Durban , KwaZulu-Natal .