Principal Metallurgist - Processing Optimization

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Annual bonus and long-term incentives

Comprehensive medical and pension

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Metallurgist to lead advanced processing optimization at our Centurion, Gauteng facility. The role emphasizes driving innovation across comminution, flotation, leaching, and solid–liquid separation to maximize recovery and reduce costs.

The ideal candidate has a PhD or Master’s in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering with 15+ years in mineral processing, and a proven ability to manage complex projects and mentor metallurgists and technicians.

Qualifications

• PhD or Master’s degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related discipline.
• Minimum 15 years of progressive experience in mineral processing and metallurgy, with strong focus on optimization and project leadership.
• Proven track record of optimizing complex mineral processing circuits (gold, copper, PGMs).
• Expertise in comminution, flotation, leaching, hydrometallurgy, and solid–liquid separation.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of metallurgical process optimization strategies.
• Conduct in-depth metallurgical test work and pilot plant trials to evaluate new technologies and process modifications.
• Analyze plant performance data to identify opportunities for recovery, throughput, and cost reduction.
• Troubleshoot complex operational issues and provide expert technical guidance to plant personnel.
• Develop and manage metallurgical projects, ensuring on-time and on-budget delivery.
• Stay abreast of advancements in metallurgical science and technology, recommending adoption where beneficial.
• Mentor and develop junior and mid-level metallurgists, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with operations, engineering, and R&D to align goals.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, feasibility studies, and presentations for senior management.
• Ensure all activities comply with safety, health, environmental, and regulatory standards.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Data analysis

Mentoring

Strategic thinking

Communication

Education

PhD or Master’s in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Tools

METSIM

JKSimMet

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the mining industry, is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Metallurgist to lead their advanced processing optimization efforts in Centurion, Gauteng . This senior position demands a deep technical expertise in mineral processing, extensive experience in identifying and implementing efficiency improvements, and a proven ability to manage complex projects. You will be responsible for driving innovation in our metallurgical operations, ensuring maximum recovery and cost-effectiveness across various commodities. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in comminution, flotation, leaching, and solid-liquid separation, with a demonstrated history of achieving significant operational gains. This role requires a strategic thinker capable of analyzing large datasets, troubleshooting complex process issues, and mentoring a team of skilled metallurgists and technicians. You will play a critical role in enhancing the profitability and sustainability of our mining operations through expert metallurgical guidance. The position is primarily based at our Centurion, Gauteng facility, with occasional site visits to our operating mines.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of metallurgical process optimization strategies.
• Conduct in-depth metallurgical test work and pilot plant trials to evaluate new technologies and process modifications.
• Analyze plant performance data to identify opportunities for improvement in recovery, throughput, and cost reduction.
• Troubleshoot complex operational issues and provide expert technical guidance to plant personnel.
• Develop and manage metallurgical projects, ensuring they are delivered on time and within budget.
• Stay abreast of advancements in metallurgical science and technology, recommending adoption where beneficial.
• Mentor and develop junior and mid-level metallurgists, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Collaborate closely with operations, engineering, and R&D departments to ensure alignment of goals.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, feasibility studies, and presentations for senior management.
• Ensure all metallurgical activities comply with safety, health, environmental, and regulatory standards.

Requirements

• PhD or Master's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in mineral processing and metallurgy, with a significant portion in optimization and project leadership.
• Proven track record of successfully optimizing complex mineral processing circuits (e.g., gold, copper, platinum group metals).
• Expertise in comminution, flotation, leaching, hydrometallurgy, and solid-liquid separation.
• Proficiency in metallurgical simulation software (e.g., METSIM, JKSimMet) and data analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of process control and automation in a metallurgical context.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and teams effectively.
• Willingness to travel to mine sites as required.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Published research or patents in metallurgy is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly attractive compensation package commensurate with experience, including a substantial annual bonus and long-term incentives.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, a generous pension scheme, and life insurance are provided.
• We are committed to the professional development of our employees, offering extensive training, conference attendance, and opportunities for advancement.
• Relocation assistance will be provided for candidates relocating to Centurion, Gauteng .
• Enjoy a dynamic work environment, the chance to work on challenging and rewarding projects, and be part of a company dedicated to sustainable and innovative mining practices.