Principal Metallurgist - Process Optimization

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Medical and retirement benefits

Career development opportunities

Global organization

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Metallurgist for a senior role near Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. You will optimize metallurgical processes across mineral processing operations, lead R&D, mentor junior metallurgists, and drive improvements in recovery, energy use, and product quality in a hybrid work setup.

You will deliver detailed reports, collaborate with operations, engineering, and R&D teams, and ensure safety and environmental standards are met while advancing innovations in flotation,

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• 12–15 years of progressive experience in mineral processing and metallurgy, with a strong focus on process optimization.
• Proven experience with flotation, leaching, gravity separation, or other relevant hydrometallurgical and pyrometallurgical processes.
• Demonstrated success in improving metallurgical recovery and plant efficiency.
• Expertise in metallurgical data analysis, statistical process control, and modeling software.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to lead and mentor technical teams effectively.
• Experience in research and development within the mining sector.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of advanced metallurgical process optimization strategies.
• Conduct in-depth metallurgical test work, data analysis, and plant performance monitoring to identify areas for improvement.
• Troubleshoot complex operational issues and develop effective solutions to enhance recovery, reduce energy consumption, and minimize waste.
• Develop and manage metallurgical test programs, pilot plant operations, and feasibility studies.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to a team of metallurgists and process engineers.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in metallurgical technologies and advocate for their adoption where appropriate.
• Collaborate with operations, engineering, and R&D teams to ensure seamless integration of process improvements.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and recommendations for senior management.
• Ensure metallurgical practices comply with safety, environmental, and quality standards.

Skills

Mineral processing

Data analysis

Leadership

Problem solving

Project management

Mentoring

Statistical modeling

Education

Master's degree in Metallurgy

PhD in Metallurgy or related field

Tools

Modeling software

Laboratory data systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant contributor to the mining and metals industry , is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Metallurgist to join their innovative team based near Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape . This senior role is dedicated to optimizing metallurgical processes across various mineral processing operations, focusing on improving recovery rates, reducing costs, and enhancing product quality. You will be a technical authority, leading research and development initiatives, troubleshooting complex process challenges, and mentoring junior metallurgists. This position requires a deep theoretical understanding combined with practical, hands-on experience in mineral processing. The role involves a hybrid work arrangement, blending essential on-site analysis and trials with strategic remote planning and data analysis.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of advanced metallurgical process optimization strategies.
• Conduct in-depth metallurgical test work, data analysis, and plant performance monitoring to identify areas for improvement.
• Troubleshoot complex operational issues and develop effective solutions to enhance recovery, reduce energy consumption, and minimize waste.
• Develop and manage metallurgical test programs, pilot plant operations, and feasibility studies.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to a team of metallurgists and process engineers.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in metallurgical technologies and advocate for their adoption where appropriate.
• Collaborate with operations, engineering, and R&D teams to ensure seamless integration of process improvements.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and recommendations for senior management.
• Ensure metallurgical practices comply with safety, environmental, and quality standards.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 12-15 years of progressive experience in mineral processing and metallurgy, with a strong focus on process optimization.
• Proven experience with flotation, leaching, gravity separation, or other relevant hydrometallurgical and pyrometallurgical processes.
• Demonstrated success in improving metallurgical recovery and plant efficiency.
• Expertise in metallurgical data analysis, statistical process control, and modeling software.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to lead and mentor technical teams effectively.
• Experience in research and development within the mining sector.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) or Professional Metallurgist designation is highly preferred.

Benefits

• Our client offers an exceptional salary package, extensive medical and retirement benefits, and performance-based incentives.
• This hybrid role provides flexibility while ensuring crucial on-site engagement.
• You will be at the forefront of metallurgical innovation, with ample opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
• Join a globally recognized organization dedicated to excellence in the mining and processing sector.