Process Control Engineer - Mining & Minerals

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid and provident fund

Professional development opportunities

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein is seeking a highly skilled Process Control Engineer to optimize mineral processing through advanced control systems. You will design, implement, and maintain control strategies for DCS/PLC-based plants, with a hybrid work arrangement combining on-site deployment and remote data analysis.

The role requires 5+ years in process control, a relevant engineering degree, and strong analytical abilities to improve product quality, safety, and throughput in the Free State

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in process control engineering, preferably in mining/heavy industry.
• Proficiency with DCS and PLC programming; familiarity with process simulation software.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimize process control strategies for mineral processing plants.
• Design, program, and commission PLC and DCS systems.
• Monitor plant performance using real-time data and address deviations.
• Conduct root cause analysis for process upsets and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate with process engineers to improve stability and efficiency.
• Maintain documentation of control strategies, P&IDs, and configurations.
• Stay updated with emerging control technologies and recommend implementations.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards for automated systems.
• Provide technical support and training to operations teams.
• Perform system upgrades with minimal production impact.

Skills

Process control

DCS programming

PLC programming

Process simulation

Advanced control techniques

Thermodynamics & fluids

Instrumentation calibration

P&ID interpretation

Data analysis & diagnostics

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Related engineering degree

Tools

DCS

PLC programming tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading entity in the mining and minerals sector based in Bloemfontein , is seeking a skilled Process Control Engineer. This role is central to optimizing the efficiency and safety of our mineral processing operations through advanced control systems. You will design, implement, and maintain sophisticated control strategies for complex industrial processes. This hybrid role requires a balance of on-site engagement for system deployment, calibration, and troubleshooting, alongside remote work for data analysis, simulation, and system design. Your expertise will be vital in ensuring consistent product quality and maximizing operational output for our facilities in the Free State .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimize process control strategies for mineral processing plants.
• Design, program, and commission PLC and DCS systems.
• Monitor plant performance using real-time data, identifying and addressing control system deviations.
• Conduct root cause analysis for process upsets and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate with process engineers to improve process stability and efficiency.
• Maintain accurate documentation of control strategies, P&IDs, and system configurations.
• Stay updated with emerging control technologies and recommend implementation where beneficial.
• Ensure compliance with safety standards and operational protocols for automated systems.
• Provide technical support and training to operations and maintenance personnel.
• Perform system upgrades and modifications while minimizing production impact.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in process control engineering, preferably in mining or heavy industry.
• Proficiency with DCS (Distributed Control Systems) and PLC programming.
• Experience with process simulation software and advanced control techniques.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and mass transfer principles relevant to mineral processing.
• Familiarity with industrial instrumentation and calibration procedures.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and diagnostic skills.
• Ability to interpret complex P&IDs and engineering drawings.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective team collaboration.
• Must be amenable to a hybrid work arrangement based in Bloemfontein .

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, including annual bonuses and comprehensive medical aid and provident fund benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development through specialized training and conferences.
• Access to advanced process control software and hardware.
• A hybrid work model providing flexibility and work-life balance.
• Contribute to critical operations in the Free State mining sector with a company committed to technological advancement and employee growth.