Remote Lead Metallurgist: Process Optimization & Innovation

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote work arrangement

Health insurance

Retirement savings plan with employer

Global travel for site visits

Professional development budget

Annual bonus structure

Home office setup stipend

Access to advanced research tools

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct is seeking a highly accomplished Lead Metallurgist to join their remote, strategic team. You will oversee and optimize mineral processing, improve recovery, and ensure sustainable extraction across mining operations.

This remote‑first role requires deep metallurgical knowledge, 10+ years in process development, and experience with METSIM or HSC Chemistry. You will mentor engineers, lead projects, and collaborate with R&D and operations for continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in metallurgical process development and operations within the mining industry.
• Expertise in hydrometallurgy, pyrometallurgy, or mineral processing.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with a data‑driven approach.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and optimization of metallurgical processes for various mineral commodities.
• Oversee pilot plant operations and scale‑up studies for new metallurgical techniques.
• Analyze process data to identify areas for improvement in recovery, grade, and efficiency.
• Develop and implement quality control measures for metallurgical operations.
• Collaborate with R&D teams on new technology evaluation and implementation.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to metallurgical engineers and technicians.
• Manage metallurgical projects, ensuring they are delivered on time and within budget.
• Develop and maintain metallurgical accounting systems and reporting.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations related to metallurgical processes.
• Troubleshoot complex processing challenges and implement effective solutions.

Skills

Remote team leadership

Analytical thinking

Data-driven approach

Project management

Education

Master's or PhD in Metallurgy/related field

Tools

METSIM

HSC Chemistry

Job description

WhatJobs Direct is seeking a highly accomplished Lead Metallurgist to join their remote, strategic team. You will oversee and optimize mineral processing, improve recovery, and ensure sustainable extraction across mining operations.

This remote‑first role requires deep metallurgical knowledge, 10+ years in process development, and experience with METSIM or HSC Chemistry. You will mentor engineers, lead projects, and collaborate with R&D and operations for continuous improvement.