Principal Metallurgist - Extraction

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 2,000,000 - 2,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Medical aid

Pension fund

Annual leave

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Metallurgist (Extraction Metallurgy) for its Rustenburg operation. You will lead metallurgical project delivery, optimize leaching, solvent extraction, electrowinning, and smelting processes, and mentor junior engineers.

A strong track record in base or precious metals and expertise in hydrometallurgy and pyrometallurgy are essential. You will drive continuous improvement to enhance recovery, reduce costs, and ensure safety and environmental standards across

Qualifications

• Masters or PhD in Metallurgy or related field.
• Minimum 12 years of progression in extraction metallurgy.
• Strong track record in base metals or precious metals processing.
• Experience leading complex metallurgical projects.
• Proficiency in metallurgical modeling and process simulation.

Responsibilities

• Lead development, optimization, and implementation of extraction metallurgical processes.
• Conduct test work, pilot plant operations, and plant performance evaluations.
• Analyze data to improve recovery, grade, and efficiency.
• Troubleshoot processing issues and implement solutions.
• Mentor junior metallurgists and process engineers.
• Prepare reports, feasibility studies, and manuals.

Skills

Extraction metallurgy

Project leadership

Metallurgical data analysis

Process optimization

Leadership & mentoring

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Metallurgy

PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Metallurgical modeling software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major mining operation, is seeking an exceptional Principal Metallurgist specializing in Extraction Metallurgy to join their esteemed team based in Rustenburg, North West . This senior role is crucial for optimizing and innovating the metallurgical processes that recover valuable minerals. The incumbent will lead complex metallurgical projects, troubleshoot processing challenges, and drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance recovery rates, reduce operating costs, and improve product quality. You will be a key technical advisor, providing expert guidance on hydrometallurgical and pyrometallurgical processes, with a strong emphasis on practical application and sustainable practices. This is a challenging opportunity to make a significant impact within a leading mining group.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the development, optimization, and implementation of extraction metallurgical processes (e.g., leaching, solvent extraction, electrowinning, smelting). Conduct in-depth metallurgical test work, pilot plant operations, and plant performance evaluations. Analyze metallurgical data to identify opportunities for improvement in recovery, grade, and efficiency. Troubleshoot complex processing issues and implement effective solutions. Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to junior metallurgists and process engineers. Develop and manage metallurgical budgets and project plans for process improvement initiatives. Stay abreast of new metallurgical technologies and assess their potential application within the operation. Ensure all metallurgical operations comply with safety, health, environmental, and community standards. Collaborate closely with geology, mine planning, and operations teams to ensure integrated process design and performance. Prepare detailed technical reports, feasibility studies, and operational manuals. Represent the company in technical forums and conferences as required.

Requirements

Master's degree or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field. A minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in extraction metallurgy, with a strong track record in base metals or precious metals processing. Extensive knowledge of various unit operations in mineral processing and extractive metallurgy. Proven experience in leading and executing complex metallurgical projects. Proficiency in metallurgical modeling software and process simulation tools. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven approach. Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. Experience with R&D and technology implementation in a mining context. Familiarity with safety, health, and environmental regulations in the mining industry. Ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment. Membership in relevant professional bodies is advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, reflecting the seniority and expertise required for this role, along with attractive performance-based bonuses. Comprehensive benefits include superior medical aid, a robust pension fund, and generous annual leave. The company is committed to employee growth, providing extensive opportunities for professional development, further training, and career progression. Working in Rustenburg, North West offers a unique lifestyle with access to diverse recreational activities. Relocation assistance will be provided.