Principal Metallurgist - Lead Platinum Recovery & Growth

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Training and development programs

Competitive remuneration with bonuses

Medical aid and retirement benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Metallurgist to lead metallurgical performance optimization at our client's processing plants in Rustenburg, North West. This senior role requires deep expertise in hydrometallurgy and/or pyrometallurgy with PGMs, guiding R&D and plant operations to maximize yields.

You will oversee complex projects, mentor staff, and collaborate with researchers to implement innovative solutions while ensuring safety and environmental compliance.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Metallurgy or related field.
• 12+ years of metallurgical operations and R&D in the mining industry.
• Expertise in hydrometallurgy and/or pyrometallurgy, with focus on platinum group metals.
• Experience with mineral processing unit operations (e.g., comminution, flotation, leaching, smelting).
• Proven ability to lead complex technical projects and cross-functional teams.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, data-driven approach.

Responsibilities

• Lead metallurgical test work and process development projects.
• Optimize existing metallurgical processes to improve recovery rates, reduce costs, and enhance product quality.
• Troubleshoot and resolve operational metallurgical challenges in plant settings.
• Develop and implement advanced process control strategies.
• Conduct metallurgical accounting and performance analysis.
• Provide expert technical support and mentorship to metallurgists and plant operators.
• Stay abreast of emerging metallurgical technologies and best practices.
• Collaborate with research institutions and technology providers on innovative solutions.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Contribute to the design and commissioning of new metallurgical facilities.

Skills

Metallurgy expertise

Leadership of cross-functional teams

Data-driven problem solving

Analytical reporting

Education

Master's/PhD in Metallurgy or related field

Tools

METSIM

Outotec HSC

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Metallurgist to lead metallurgical performance optimization at our client's processing plants in Rustenburg, North West. This senior role requires deep expertise in hydrometallurgy and/or pyrometallurgy with PGMs, guiding R&D and plant operations to maximize yields.

You will oversee complex projects, mentor staff, and collaborate with researchers to implement innovative solutions while ensuring safety and environmental compliance.