Process Improvement Engineer - Mining Operations

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,450,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Housing allowance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a proactive Process Improvement Engineer for its mining operations near Bloemfontein. You will analyze existing processes, identify bottlenecks, and develop data-driven solutions to optimize extraction, processing, and workflows.

Emphasis on Lean Six Sigma and collaboration with mine teams to drive measurable gains. The role requires strong analytical skills, experience in heavy industry, and on-site work in the Bloemfontein region.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mining, Chemical, or Metallurgical Engineering.
• Minimum 6 years experience in process improvement or engineering in mining/heavy industry.
• Lean Six Sigma Green/Black Belt certification is a strong advantage; proficiency in data analysis tools.

Responsibilities

• Analyze mining and processing operations to identify inefficiencies and bottlenecks.
• Develop and implement process improvement initiatives using Lean and Six Sigma.
• Design trials and analyze data to assess effectiveness.
• Collaborate with engineers and operational staff to implement changes.
• Monitor KPIs related to efficiency, safety, and environmental impact.

Skills

Lean

Six Sigma

Data analysis

Problem solving

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Metallurgical Engineering

Tools

Excel

Minitab

Process simulation tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant player in the mining sector, is seeking a proactive and analytical Process Improvement Engineer to join their operations in Bloemfontein . This role is pivotal in identifying and implementing strategies to enhance the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of mining processes. You will be responsible for analyzing existing operations, identifying bottlenecks, and developing data-driven solutions to optimize extraction, processing, and operational workflows. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of mining engineering principles, coupled with expertise in continuous improvement methodologies such as Lean Six Sigma. We are looking for a candidate who can collaborate effectively with mine managers, engineers, and operational teams to drive impactful change. This is an exciting career opportunity to contribute to a key industry sector in the Free State region and make a tangible difference in operational performance. The role is based at our client's major mining site near Bloemfontein .

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze existing mining and mineral processing operations to identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement.
• Develop and implement process improvement initiatives using methodologies such as Lean, Six Sigma, and other continuous improvement tools.
• Design and conduct trials for new processes or modifications to existing ones, collecting and analyzing data to assess effectiveness.
• Collaborate with mine engineers, geologists, and operational staff to implement process changes and ensure successful adoption.
• Develop and maintain process documentation, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and training materials.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to process efficiency, productivity, safety, and environmental impact.
• Investigate operational issues and root causes, recommending and implementing corrective actions.
• Utilize data analysis and modeling techniques to optimize process parameters and resource utilization.
• Ensure all process improvements comply with safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Prepare reports and present findings and recommendations to management and operational teams.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in process improvement, operational analysis, or engineering within the mining or heavy industrial sector.
• Proven experience with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma (Green Belt or Black Belt certification is a strong advantage), or other continuous improvement methodologies.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data sets.
• Proficiency in data analysis software (e.g., Excel, Minitab) and process simulation tools.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and presentation skills.
• Understanding of mineral processing techniques and mining operations.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Must be willing to work on-site in the mining environment near Bloemfontein .
• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa.

Benefits

• competitive salary package, comprehensive medical aid, and a robust retirement fund
• opportunities for professional development, including advanced training in process optimization and industry-specific certifications
• a challenging yet rewarding career within the vital mining sector in Bloemfontein .
• housing allowances, performance bonuses, and generous paid time off.
• Join a company committed to operational excellence and sustainable mining practices.