Processing Plant Manager

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus program

Medical aid

Life insurance

Retirement fund

Relocation package

Career development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an accomplished Processing Plant Manager for a major mining operation near Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. The role leads metallurgical processing, safety, and environmental compliance while driving efficiency and profitability.

The successful candidate will manage a skilled team of engineers and operators, implement continuous improvement, and ensure high reliability of crushing, grinding, flotation and dewatering circuits with a focus on sustainability and cost control.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 10 years in mineral processing operations, with at least 5 years in a management/supervisory role.
• Proven experience managing complex processing plants (crushing, grinding, flotation, dewatering).
• Strong understanding of metallurgical principles and process control.
• Track record of driving efficiency, cost management, and continuous improvement.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Familiarity with HSE regulations in mining and budgeting experience.

Responsibilities

• Direct daily operations of the mineral processing plant including crushing, grinding, flotation, and dewatering.
• Ensure safe operations, regulatory compliance, and environmental stewardship.
• Develop strategies to optimize throughput, recovery, and product quality.
• Manage budgets, control costs, and identify cost-reduction opportunities.
• Lead and mentor engineers, operators, and maintenance personnel.
• Oversee maintenance programs to maximize plant reliability and minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with R&D on process improvements and new technologies.
• Ensure adherence to HSE policies and procedures.
• Maintain relationships with suppliers, contractors, and regulators.
• Report plant performance and challenges to senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Operations management

Process optimization

Budgeting

HSE compliance

Team development

Communication

Education

Bachelors in Metallurgical/Chemical Eng

Tools

Process control systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major force in the Mining and metals industry, is seeking an accomplished and results-driven Processing Plant Manager for their facility near Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal . This senior leadership role is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the mineral processing plant's operations, ensuring optimal performance, safety, and environmental compliance. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in metallurgical processing, operations management, and continuous improvement initiatives within a complex processing environment. You will lead a dedicated team, driving efficiency, cost control, and the achievement of production targets. This is a critical leadership position within a company committed to operational excellence and sustainable practices. We are looking for an individual with strong technical acumen, exceptional leadership qualities, and a proven track record in managing large-scale processing facilities. The opportunity to shape the future of our processing operations in the vibrant KwaZulu-Natal region presents a significant career advancement. You will be instrumental in maintaining and enhancing the plant's productivity and profitability while upholding the highest standards of safety and environmental stewardship.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and direct all daily operations of the mineral processing plant, including crushing, grinding, flotation, and dewatering circuits.
• Ensure plant operates safely, efficiently, and within environmental regulations.
• Develop and implement strategies to optimize plant throughput, recovery rates, and product quality.
• Manage operational budgets, control costs, and identify areas for cost reduction.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of engineers, operators, and maintenance personnel.
• Oversee the implementation of maintenance programs to ensure plant reliability and minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with research and development teams on process improvements and new technologies.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental (HSE) policies and procedures.
• Manage relationships with suppliers, contractors, and regulatory bodies.
• Report on plant performance, key metrics, and operational challenges to senior management.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mineral processing operations, with at least 5 years in a management or supervisory role.
• Proven experience in managing complex processing plants, including comminution, concentration, and refining stages.
• Strong understanding of metallurgical principles and process control.
• Demonstrated success in driving operational efficiency, cost management, and continuous improvement.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Knowledge of HSE regulations and best practices in the mining industry.
• Experience with financial management and budgeting.
• Familiarity with the industrial landscape of Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal is advantageous.
• Professional registration (e.g., ECSA) is a plus.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical aid, life insurance, and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunity to lead a key operational asset for a major mining company.
• Professional development and career advancement opportunities.
• Relocation package available for qualified candidates moving to Pietermaritzburg .
• Engagement in significant projects with a focus on innovation and sustainability.