Process Metallurgist - Mineral Processing

Placements24; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonuses and incentives

Medical aid and retirement fund

Professional development

Relocation assistance

Collaborative work culture

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Process Metallurgist to oversee and optimize mineral processing operations at a facility near Port Elizabeth. The role focuses on maximizing recovery and quality through crushing, grinding, flotation, and other separation techniques.

You will troubleshoot plants, drive improvements, and ensure cost-effective operations within a growing mining operation. The successful candidate will have a strong metallurgical background, practical plant experience, and a passion for

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years hands-on experience in mineral processing plant operations.
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• Strong understanding of crushing, grinding, flotation, thickening, and filtration.
• Proficiency in metallurgical accounting and data analysis using relevant software.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to diagnose and resolve complex process issues.
• Experience with process simulation software is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Operate and optimize comminution circuits (crushing and grinding) to achieve target size reduction.
• Manage and troubleshoot flotation circuits, adjusting reagents and operating parameters for optimal recovery and grade.
• Conduct metallurgical test work and pilot plant trials to evaluate new processes and improve existing ones.
• Monitor plant performance, analyze data, and implement strategies to improve efficiency and reduce operational costs.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health, and environmental regulations within the processing plant.
• Collaborate with geologists and engineers to understand ore variability and its impact on processing.

Skills

Metallurgical principles

Data analysis

Troubleshooting

Problem solving

Unit operations

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Metallurgical accounting software

Data analysis software

Job description

About the Role

Our client seeks a skilled Process Metallurgist to oversee and optimize mineral processing operations at their facility near Port Elizabeth. This role is integral to maximizing the recovery and quality of valuable minerals through effective comminution, flotation, and other separation techniques. You will be responsible for plant troubleshooting, process improvement initiatives, and ensuring operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in metallurgical principles, practical plant experience, and a passion for driving innovation in mineral processing. This is a key position within a growing mining operation, contributing directly to the company's success.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and optimize comminution circuits (crushing and grinding) to achieve target size reduction.


• Manage and troubleshoot flotation circuits, adjusting reagents and operating parameters for optimal recovery and grade.


• Conduct metallurgical test work and pilot plant trials to evaluate new processes and improve existing ones.


• Monitor plant performance, analyze data, and implement strategies to improve efficiency and reduce operational costs.


• Ensure compliance with safety, health, and environmental regulations within the processing plant.


• Collaborate with geologists and engineers to understand ore variability and its impact on processing.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.


• Minimum of 5 years of hands‑on experience in mineral processing plant operations, preferably with precious metals or base metals.


• Strong understanding of unit operations such as crushing, grinding, flotation, thickening, and filtration.


• Proficiency in metallurgical accounting and data analysis using relevant software.


• Excellent problem‑solving skills and the ability to diagnose and resolve complex process issues.


• Experience with process simulation software is an advantage.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with performance‑based bonuses and incentives.


• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.


• Opportunities for professional development, including further training and conference attendance.


• Relocation assistance may be provided for candidates moving to the Port Elizabeth area.


• A collaborative work environment focused on continuous improvement and operational excellence.