Processing Plant Manager - Base Metals Focus

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Life insurance

Company vehicle

Housing allowance

Relocation assistance

Career advancement

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Processing Plant Manager to oversee Vereeniging operations for base metals processing, ensuring safety, efficiency, and quality. You will lead metallurgists and engineers, drive reliability, and manage budgets while delivering production targets.

The role requires a strong metallurgical background, extensive management experience, and a track record of continuous improvement in a heavy industry setting with a focus on safety and collaboration.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in metallurgical processing with at least 5 years in a management role.
• Proven track record in managing base metals processing operations (e.g., copper, zinc, nickel).
• Strong understanding of comminution, flotation, leaching, and refining processes.
• Excellent leadership, decision‑making, and problem‑solving skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to health, safety, and environmental best practices in industrial operations.

Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of the base metals processing plant, including operations, maintenance, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure plant operations meet production targets, quality specifications, and cost objectives.
• Develop and implement robust safety protocols and environmental management systems to ensure compliance and prevent incidents.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of metallurgists, engineers, and operational staff.
• Oversee the maintenance and reliability of plant equipment to minimize downtime and optimize performance.
• Manage plant budget, control operational expenditures, and identify cost‑saving opportunities.

Skills

Leadership

Decision making

Problem solving

People management

Health & safety

Education

Metallurgy/Chemical Engineering degree

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and results-driven Processing Plant Manager to oversee operations in Vereeniging . You will lead a team responsible for the efficient and safe processing of base metals, ensuring optimal recovery rates and product quality. This senior leadership role demands a strong background in metallurgical operations, excellent people management skills, and a commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence. You will be accountable for plant performance, budget adherence, and fostering a culture of safety and collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of the base metals processing plant, including operations, maintenance, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure plant operations meet production targets, quality specifications, and cost objectives.
• Develop and implement robust safety protocols and environmental management systems to ensure compliance and prevent incidents.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of metallurgists, engineers, and operational staff.
• Oversee the maintenance and reliability of plant equipment to minimize downtime and optimize performance.
• Manage plant budget, control operational expenditures, and identify cost‑saving opportunities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in metallurgical processing, with at least 5 years in a management role.
• Proven track record in managing base metals processing operations (e.g., copper, zinc, nickel).
• Strong understanding of comminution, flotation, leaching, and refining processes.
• Excellent leadership, decision‑making, and problem‑solving skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to health, safety, and environmental best practices in industrial operations.

Benefits

• Highly competitive executive salary and comprehensive bonus structure.
• Full suite of benefits including medical aid, pension fund, and life insurance.
• Company vehicle and housing allowance.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement within a growing organization.
• Relocation assistance provided for qualified candidates relocating to Vereeniging .