Principal Process Engineer - Metallurgy

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus structure

Medical aid

Provident fund

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Process Engineer to lead metallurgical operations near Mahikeng, North West. You will drive process optimization, mentor engineers, and spearhead projects to boost recovery and efficiency across metallurgical circuits.

The role requires advanced degrees and 10+ years in mining/process engineering, with strong leadership and safety focus. Executive package includes relocation assistance and medical aid.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or closely related field.
• 10+ years in process engineering within mining/mineral processing with leadership.
• Experience with metallurgical processes including comminution, flotation, leaching, smelting, refining.
• Proven track record in process optimization and delivering results.
• Proficiency in METSIM, HSC Chemistry and data analysis tools.

Responsibilities

• Provide senior leadership on mineral processing and metallurgy.
• Lead and mentor a team of process engineers.
• Identify and implement process optimization strategies to improve recovery and throughput.
• Oversee design, commissioning, and troubleshooting of plants and equipment.
• Conduct mass/energy balances and performance evaluations.
• Manage capital and operational improvement projects.
• Ensure safety, health and environmental compliance.
• Collaborate with R&D to evaluate new technologies.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for senior management.
• Stay current with industry best practices and regulatory changes.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Communication skills

Project management

Data analysis

Education

Master's or PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Tools

METSIM

HSC Chemistry

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent force in the mining and minerals processing sector, is seeking an experienced and innovative Principal Process Engineer to lead their metallurgical operations near Mahikeng, North West . This senior role is pivotal in driving process optimization, innovation, and efficiency across the plant's various metallurgical circuits. The Principal Process Engineer will provide expert technical leadership, mentor a team of engineers, and spearhead projects aimed at enhancing recovery rates, reducing operating costs, and ensuring environmental sustainability. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of complex metallurgical processes, advanced troubleshooting skills, and a proven ability to manage challenging projects within the demanding mining environment. This is an opportunity to make a significant impact on a large-scale operation.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide senior technical leadership and guidance on all aspects of mineral processing and metallurgy.
• Lead and mentor a team of process engineers, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and technical excellence.
• Identify, develop, and implement strategies for process optimization to improve recovery, throughput, and product quality.
• Oversee the design, commissioning, and troubleshooting of metallurgical plants and equipment.
• Conduct in-depth process analysis, including mass and energy balances, and performance evaluations.
• Manage capital and operational improvement projects from conception through to completion.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety, health, and environmental regulations within the processing plant.
• Collaborate with research and development teams to evaluate and implement new technologies.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and recommendations for senior management.
• Stay current with industry best practices, technological advancements, and regulatory changes in metallurgy and mineral processing.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in process engineering within the mining and minerals processing industry, with significant leadership responsibilities.
• Extensive experience with various metallurgical processes (e.g., comminution, flotation, leaching, smelting, refining).
• Proven track record of successfully leading process optimization initiatives and delivering measurable results.
• Strong proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., METSIM, HSC Chemistry) and data analysis tools.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and multidisciplinary teams.
• Sound understanding of process safety management (PSM) principles.
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) with ECSA or equivalent is highly desirable.
• Commitment to sustainable and responsible mining practices.

Benefits

Our client offers an executive-level compensation package, including a significant bonus structure, comprehensive medical aid, and an attractive provident fund. This role provides ample opportunities for professional growth, leadership development, and engagement with cutting-edge processing technologies. Employees benefit from a strong emphasis on safety, innovation, and work-life balance within a supportive corporate culture. Assistance with relocation may be available. Join a leader in the mining industry and play a key role in optimizing operations near Mahikeng .