Principal Metallurgist: Process Optimization & Innovation

Placements24; Randfontein; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Pension fund

Performance bonuses

Relocation assistance

International travel

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa is seeking a Principal Metallurgist to lead metallurgical operations in the Rustenburg region. The role drives process optimization, innovation, and maximum recovery while controlling costs across hydrometallurgy and/or pyrometallurgy.

You will mentor junior staff, manage lab and pilot plant test work, develop models and simulations, and provide expert guidance to plant operations.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or closely related field.
• 12+ years of hands-on mineral processing experience; at least 5 years in senior/principal metallurgist role.
• Expertise in hydrometallurgical or pyrometallurgical processes relevant to base or precious metals.
• Experience with process simulation and statistical tools; ability to troubleshoot complex plant operations.

Responsibilities

• Lead metallurgical process improvements to enhance recovery and product quality.
• Conduct test work and pilot plant trials to evaluate new process technologies and reagents.
• Analyze plant performance data to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and optimization opportunities.
• Develop and maintain process models and simulations to predict outcomes and support decisions.
• Provide expert technical support and troubleshooting for plant operations.
• Collaborate with R&D to evaluate and implement innovative processing techniques.
• Ensure adherence to environmental regulations and best practices in metallurgical operations.
• Mentor and train junior metallurgists and plant operators on process fundamentals.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, feasibility studies, and operational guidelines.
• Stay current with global advancements in metallurgical processing and apply relevant knowledge.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Leadership

Communication

Mentoring

Education

Master's/PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Eng

Tools

METSIM

HSC Chemistry

Job description

Placements24 in South Africa is seeking a Principal Metallurgist to lead metallurgical operations in the Rustenburg region. The role drives process optimization, innovation, and maximum recovery while controlling costs across hydrometallurgy and/or pyrometallurgy.

You will mentor junior staff, manage lab and pilot plant test work, develop models and simulations, and provide expert guidance to plant operations.