Pyrometallurgy Engineer : Computational Materials Science Modelling

Mintek Pty Ltd.; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Research Engineer in Pyrometallurgy to innovate and develop cutting-edge computational materials science models. This role will focus on enhancing the understanding of thermophysical and thermochemical properties of various slag systems. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in pyrometallurgy and computational materials science, with a passion for research and technology development. This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to impactful research in a dynamic and collaborative environment, where your expertise will play a crucial role in advancing industry practices and technologies.

Qualifications

• 1-3 years' experience in pyrometallurgy research and technology development.
• Strong understanding of computational materials science modelling.
• Proven experience with open source computational materials science tools.

Responsibilities

• Conduct fundamental and applied research in pyrometallurgy processes.
• Develop computational materials science models for thermophysical properties.
• Contribute to human capital development and equity in the workplace.

Skills

Computational Materials Science

Pyrometallurgy Research

Thermochemistry

Phase Equilibria

Reaction Kinetics

Engineering Design Fundamentals

Software Automation

SHEQ Systems Knowledge

Investment Attraction

Education

BSc Eng / BEng in Engineering

PhD in Engineering

Postdoctoral Research Experience

Tools

LAMMPS

DL-POLY

Quantum Espresso

PyroSim

FactSage

Python

Job description

Pyrometallurgy Engineer: Computational Materials Science Modelling

Listing reference: minte_

Listing status: Online

Apply by: 27 August

Industry: Scientific, Research & Development

Job category: Research and Development

Location: Randburg

Contract: Permanent

Remuneration: Market Related

EE position: Yes

Introduction: Mintek has exciting opportunities for a Research Engineer within the Pyrometallurgy Division to conduct fundamental and applied research in the design, development, and demonstration of pyrometallurgical processes and technologies.

The position will focus on developing computational materials science models to enhance understanding of the thermophysical and thermochemical properties of selected conventional and non-conventional slag systems.

The role requires a strong understanding of computational materials chemistry, thermochemistry, phase equilibria, reaction kinetics, and engineering design fundamentals.

Contributing to human capital development and willingness to work towards a common purpose with a strong sense of equity and inclusion are non-negotiable attributes of the role.

Job Knowledge and Requirements:

1. 1-3 years' experience in pyrometallurgy research and technology development.
2. Demonstrated ability to develop experimental techniques, models, and prototypes.
3. Experience with designing and operating electric arc furnaces is an added advantage.
4. Strong understanding of computational materials science modelling using both ab initio and molecular dynamics methods, and their application to the calculation of thermodynamic and transport properties of high-temperature metallurgical systems in solid and liquid states.
5. Proven experience with open source computational materials science tools such as LAMMPS, DL-POLY, Quantum Espresso, or similar.
6. Strong understanding of pyrometallurgy fundamentals and demonstrated ability to conceptualise and deliver high impact research in pyrometallurgy.
7. Strong portfolio of publications in peer-reviewed journals is a distinct advantage.
8. Experience with pyrometallurgical process software and design tools such as PyroSim, FactSage, or similar is an added advantage.
9. Experience with software automation and scripting languages such as Python is an added advantage.
10. Knowledge or experience with SHEQ systems.
11. Knowledge of technology transfer, commercialisation, and product development is highly advantageous.
12. Demonstrated ability to attract investment or R&D funding is highly advantageous.

Qualifications:

1. Minimum BSc Eng / BEng degree in Engineering (Metallurgical / Chemical / Mechanical / Process / Materials Sciences) or equivalent, with a strong emphasis on pyrometallurgy research and technology development.
2. Ideally, PhD in Engineering (Metallurgical / Chemical / Process / Materials Science) or equivalent, with a strong emphasis on modelling competencies relevant to pyrometallurgy research and technology development.
3. Postdoctoral research experience, with strong emphasis on computational materials science modelling, is highly advantageous.
4. Familiarity with high performance computing and the use of shared / remote computational resources is desirable.
5. Professional recognition and registration are an added advantage.
6. Experience with postgraduate research is desirable.

Behavioural Competencies:

1. Team player who enjoys variety and has a strong affinity for planning and conducting new and innovative projects.
2. Passion for pyrometallurgy research, technology development, and technology transfer.
3. Good interpersonal skills.
4. Ability to work in a stressful and demanding environment.
5. Willing to travel locally and internationally.
6. Prepared to work shifts in hot and dusty plant environments when required.
7. Ability to independently engage with industry leaders, operators, and high-level international partners.