Process Plant Operator - Base Metals Processing

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 83,000 - 124,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Overtime opportunities

Career progression

PPE provided

Bonuses

Safe working environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking skilled Process Plant Operators for its Vereeniging facility in Gauteng. You will hands-on operate plant equipment, monitor performance, and implement corrective actions to ensure safe, efficient base metals processing.

The role is hybrid, with on-site duties and remote monitoring/reporting as needed. A strong background in DCS/SCADA, P&IDs, and safety compliance is essential for success.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience as a Process Plant Operator.
• Familiarity with industrial process control systems (DCS/SCADA).
• Able to read P&IDs and operate process equipment.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor processing plant equipment (crushers, mills, thickeners, filters, conveyors).
• Control parameters (flow, temperature, pressure, dosages) to optimize production.
• Perform routine checks and inspections on machinery and controls.
• Collect samples for QC and perform basic lab tests.
• Respond to alarms and upsets with corrective actions to maintain stability.
• Adhere to safety procedures, site protocols and environmental regulations.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Teamwork

Communication

Health & safety awareness

Education

Grade 12 / Matric

Technical qualification in Process Plant Operations

Tools

DCS/SCADA systems

P&ID interpretation

Basic computer literacy

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant operator in the metals processing industry, is seeking to hire dedicated and skilled Process Plant Operators for their facility in Vereeniging, Gauteng . This role involves the hands-on operation of various plant equipment and control systems to ensure the efficient and safe processing of base metals. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of chemical or physical processing techniques and be adept at monitoring plant performance, identifying potential issues, and implementing corrective actions. This is a hybrid role, involving both operational duties on-site and potential for remote monitoring or reporting duties as needed. We are committed to operational excellence and providing a safe, productive working environment for our team.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor various processing plant equipment, including crushers, mills, thickeners, filters, and conveyors.
• Control plant parameters such as flow rates, temperatures, pressures, and chemical dosages to optimize production.
• Perform routine checks and inspections of plant machinery and control systems to ensure optimal performance and identify any deviations.
• Collect samples for quality control analysis and perform basic laboratory tests as required.
• Respond promptly and effectively to alarms and operational upsets, taking corrective actions to maintain plant stability.
• Adhere strictly to all safety procedures, operating protocols, and environmental regulations in the Vereeniging plant.
• Maintain accurate operational logs and production records.
• Collaborate with maintenance teams to report and address equipment malfunctions.
• Participate in team meetings and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
• Assist in the shutdown and startup of plant equipment during planned maintenance or process changes.

Requirements

• A Grade 12 (Matric) certificate or equivalent qualification.
• A relevant technical qualification or trade certificate (e.g., Process Plant Operations, Chemical Operations) is highly advantageous.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience as a Process Plant Operator, preferably in base metals or a related mineral processing environment.
• Demonstrated understanding of industrial process control systems (DCS/SCADA).
• Ability to read and interpret P&IDs (Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams) and operational manuals.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to work under pressure.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Commitment to health, safety, and environmental standards is essential for operations in Vereeniging .
• Willingness to work shifts, including nights, weekends, and public holidays, as per operational requirements.
• Basic computer literacy.

Benefits

• Competitive hourly wage or annual salary, with overtime opportunities.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunities for skills development and career progression within the plant operations team.
• A safe and stable working environment in Vereeniging .
• Company-provided PPE and uniform.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Exposure to a wide range of base metal processing techniques.