Remote Lead Metallurgist - Base Metals Processing

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 2,500,000 - 3,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Performance bonuses

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Remote work autonomy

Career development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Metallurgist to spearhead base metals processing strategy in a fully remote role. You will lead a global team of metallurgists and technicians, drive optimization of flotation and leaching circuits, and deliver sustainable improvements.

The ideal candidate has MSc or PhD in Metallurgy or related field, 10+ years in base metals, strong leadership in remote settings, and proven ability to manage budgets and communicate complex technical results.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 10 years' progressive experience in base metals metallurgy, including at least 3 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• Extensive expertise in flotation and leaching circuit design, operation and optimization.
• Experience with metallurgical simulation software (METSIM, GAMS).
• Strong understanding of mineralogy, geometallurgy and process control.
• Proven leadership and ability to manage remote teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement advanced metallurgical process strategies for base metals (copper, nickel, zinc, lead).
• Oversee and optimize comminution, flotation, leaching, and other mineral processing circuits.
• Conduct metallurgical test work analysis and interpret results to improve recovery and concentrate grades.
• Lead a remote team of metallurgists, process engineers, technicians; provide guidance.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex processing issues to ensure plant performance.
• Collaborate with site operations, R&D, management to drive innovation and best practices.
• Develop and manage metallurgical budgets and project plans.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health, environmental regulations.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, feasibility studies for senior management.

Skills

MSc/PhD in Metallurgy/Chemical Eng

10+ years in base metals metallurgy

Flotation & Leaching optimization

METSIM/GAMS proficiency

Mineralogy & geometallurgy

Leadership of remote teams

Analytical problem-solving

Excellent communication

Education

MSc or PhD in Metallurgy/related field

Tools

METSIM

GAMS

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a globally recognized leader in mining operations, seeking an exceptional and highly experienced Lead Metallurgist to join their innovative team. This is a unique, fully remote opportunity, allowing you to contribute your expertise from anywhere. The successful candidate will be instrumental in optimizing complex base metal processing operations, driving efficiency, and implementing cutting-edge metallurgical practices. You will lead a team of metallurgists and technicians, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and technical excellence. We are looking for a strategic thinker with a proven track record in base metals metallurgy, capable of tackling complex processing challenges and delivering sustainable solutions. This role offers unparalleled flexibility and the chance to shape metallurgical strategies without geographical constraints.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement advanced metallurgical process strategies for base metals (copper, nickel, zinc, lead).
• Oversee and optimize comminution, flotation, leaching, and other relevant mineral processing circuits.
• Conduct in-depth metallurgical test work analysis and interpret results to improve recovery and concentrate grades.
• Lead a remote team of metallurgists, process engineers, and technicians, providing technical guidance and mentorship.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex processing issues to ensure optimal plant performance and efficiency.
• Collaborate with site operations teams, R&D, and management to drive innovation and implement best practices.
• Develop and manage metallurgical budgets and project plans.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, health, and environmental regulations related to metallurgical processes.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and feasibility studies for senior management.

Requirements

• MSc or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in base metals metallurgy, with at least 3 years in a lead or supervisory role.
• Demonstrated expertise in designing, operating, and optimizing flotation and leaching circuits.
• Proven experience with metallurgical simulation software (e.g., METSIM, GAMS).
• Strong understanding of mineralogy, geometallurgy, and process control.
• Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills, especially in a remote work environment.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information clearly.
• Self-motivated, highly organized, and able to manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety and environmental stewardship.

Benefits

• This fully remote position offers a highly competitive salary, commensurate with your extensive experience and leadership capabilities.
• In addition to the base compensation, performance-based bonuses, comprehensive health benefits, and a robust retirement savings plan are provided.
• Our client is committed to fostering professional growth through continuous learning opportunities and support for further education.
• You will have the autonomy to manage your work schedule effectively, promoting an exceptional work-life balance.
• This role provides a unique platform to influence global mining practices from the comfort of your home office, contributing significantly to the advancement of base metals processing.