Remote Lead Metallurgist - Base Metals Processing

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Premium health insurance

Retirement plans

Home office stipend

Job summary

Our client, a global leader in the mining and metals industry, seeks a highly experienced Lead Metallurgist to join a fully remote technical services team. You will oversee development, optimization, and troubleshooting of metallurgical processes for base metals across global operations from your preferred location.

The role requires MSc/PhD in Metallurgy or related field with 12+ years of metallurgical experience, including remote team leadership, process modeling, and METSIM/HSC/KJSimFloat

Qualifications

• Minimum 12 years in metallurgical processing with base metals focus.
• Experience leading remote R&D projects and technical teams.
• Proficiency in mineral processing unit operations, metallurgical chemistry, and process modeling.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, scale-up, and optimization of base metal processing circuits (flotation, leaching, solvent extraction, electrowinning).
• Conduct advanced metallurgical test work, pilot plant trials and plant performance analysis.
• Improve metal recovery, product quality and operational cost-efficiency.
• Provide expert technical support and troubleshooting for global base metal plants.
• Mentor a dispersed team of metallurgists and process engineers; foster remote collaboration.
• Oversee R&D projects from concept to implementation, including new tech evaluation.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, feasibility studies, and presentations for senior management.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health and environmental regulations in design and operation.
• Stay current with advancements in base metals processing, mineralogy and metallurgy.
• Collaborate with geologists, mine planners and operations managers on projects.

Skills

Remote leadership

Team mentoring

Data analysis

Process optimization

Education

MSc in Metallurgy

PhD in Metallurgy

Tools

METSIM

HSC Chemistry

JKSimFloat

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in the mining and metals industry, is actively seeking a highly experienced and innovative Lead Metallurgist to join their fully remote technical services team. This senior role is crucial for driving excellence in the processing of base metals, including copper, zinc, and nickel. You will be responsible for overseeing the development, optimization, and troubleshooting of complex metallurgical processes across various global operations. The Lead Metallurgist will provide expert technical guidance, manage key R&D projects, and mentor a dispersed team of metallurgists. This is an exceptional opportunity to leverage your extensive expertise in a role that offers global impact and significant professional autonomy, working from your preferred location. Our client is committed to pioneering sustainable and efficient metal extraction technologies, accessible to top talent worldwide.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, scale-up, and optimization of base metal processing circuits, including flotation, leaching, solvent extraction, and electrowinning.
• Conduct advanced metallurgical test work, pilot plant trials, and plant performance analysis.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve metal recovery, product quality, and operational cost-efficiency.
• Provide expert technical support and troubleshooting for operational challenges in base metal plants worldwide.
• Manage and mentor a team of metallurgists and process engineers, fostering a collaborative and high-performance remote culture.
• Oversee metallurgical R&D projects, from concept to implementation, including new technology evaluation.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, feasibility studies, and presentations for senior management and clients.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, health, and environmental regulations in process design and operation.
• Stay current with advancements in base metals processing, mineralogy, and metallurgy.
• Collaborate closely with geologists, mine planners, and operations managers on project development and execution.

Requirements

• MSc or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in metallurgical processing, with a strong emphasis on base metals (copper, nickel, zinc, lead).
• Demonstrated expertise in mineral processing unit operations, metallurgical chemistry, and process modeling.
• Proven experience in leading R&D projects and managing technical teams remotely.
• In-depth knowledge of metallurgical accounting and data analysis techniques.
• Exceptional analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Outstanding communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence globally in a virtual environment.
• Proficiency in metallurgical simulation software (e.g., METSIM, HSC Chemistry, JKSimFloat).
• Adaptability and a proven track record of success in a fully remote work setting.
• Strong understanding of plant operations and commissioning.

Benefits

This fully remote position offers an industry-leading salary, significant annual performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including premium health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development allowances. Our client provides a flexible work schedule designed to accommodate global time zones and offers a generous stipend for home office setup and technology. Opportunities for growth include leading international projects, attending key global conferences, and continuous learning through a dedicated online platform. Our client cultivates a strong virtual team environment, promoting collaboration and innovation in the dynamic field of base metals processing. Embrace a career that offers global reach and profound impact from anywhere in the world.