Remote Principal Metallurgist - Hydrometallurgy

Placements24; George; Híbrido; ZAR 2.000.000 - 3.600.000; Tempo integral

Resumo da vaga

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Principal Metallurgist specializing in hydrometallurgy to lead advanced process development from a remote location within South Africa. The role emphasizes strategy, optimization, and cross-site collaboration.

You will guide R&D projects, mentor junior metallurgists, and deliver technically sound feasibility studies while ensuring safety, environmental, and governance standards are upheld across operations.

Qualificações

• Advanced degree (MSc or PhD) in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 12+ years in hydrometallurgical process development and operation, focusing on precious/base metals or battery materials.
• Proven expertise in leaching, solvent extraction, ion exchange, electrowinning, and precipitation technologies.
• Strong proficiency with metallurgical simulation software (HSC Chemistry, GEMS, METSIM).
• Experience leading R&D projects from concept to commercialization.
• Excellent analytical, problem solving and communication skills.

Responsabilidades

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of hydrometallurgical processes.
• Conduct pilot plant studies and troubleshoot complex metallurgical circuits.
• Model thermodynamics and kinetics of chemical reactions in hydrometallurgy.
• Develop strategies to maximize metal recovery and minimize reagents and environmental impact.
• Collaborate with R&D, process engineers and site metallurgists for project execution.

Conhecimentos

Leaching

Solvent extraction

Ion exchange

Electrowinning

Precipitation

Modeling & simulation

R&D leadership

Data analysis

Communication skills

Formação

MSc/PhD in Metallurgy

Ferramentas

HSC Chemistry

GEMS

METSIM

Descrição da vaga

About the Role

Our client is a global leader in the mining and metals industry, actively seeking a highly experienced and innovative Principal Metallurgist specializing in hydrometallurgy. This is a fully remote position, offering the unique opportunity to work from anywhere within South Africa while contributing to groundbreaking projects. You will be at the forefront of developing and optimizing complex hydrometallurgical processes for a diverse range of mineral commodities. This senior role requires a strategic thinker with a deep understanding of chemical principles, process engineering, and mineral processing techniques. You will lead research and development initiatives, provide expert technical guidance, and drive continuous improvement across various operational sites. The ideal candidate is a self-motivated professional with a passion for metallurgical science and a proven ability to deliver impactful results in a remote setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of novel and existing hydrometallurgical processes.
• Conduct pilot plant studies and full-scale plant troubleshooting for complex metallurgical circuits.
• Perform detailed thermodynamic and kinetic modeling of chemical reactions involved in hydrometallurgy.
• Develop and implement strategies for maximizing metal recovery and minimizing reagent consumption and environmental impact.
• Collaborate with R&D teams, process engineers, and site metallurgists to ensure seamless project execution and technology transfer.
• Prepare high-level technical reports, feasibility studies, and investment proposals.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in hydrometallurgical technology and assess their applicability to our client's operations.
• Mentor and guide junior metallurgists and contribute to building a strong technical community within the organization.
• Provide expert metallurgical support for capital projects and operational improvements.
• Ensure all metallurgical work aligns with stringent safety, environmental, and corporate governance standards.

Requirements

• An advanced degree (MSc or PhD) in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 12 years of hands-on experience in hydrometallurgical process development and operation, with a focus on precious metals, base metals, or battery materials.
• Proven expertise in leaching, solvent extraction, ion exchange, electrowinning, and precipitation technologies.
• Strong proficiency in metallurgical simulation software (e.g., HSC Chemistry, GEMS, METSIM).
• Demonstrated success in leading R&D projects from concept to commercialization.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively convey complex technical information to diverse audiences.
• Proven ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously in a remote work environment.
• Strong understanding of process control, automation, and data analysis in a metallurgical context.
• Published research or patents in the field of hydrometallurgy would be advantageous.

Benefits

• As a fully remote Principal Metallurgist, you will enjoy unparalleled flexibility and work-life balance.
• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health benefits, and a generous retirement savings plan.
• You will have access to cutting-edge research facilities and technologies, and ample opportunities for professional growth and development through conferences, training, and internal knowledge-sharing platforms.
• This role provides the chance to make a significant impact on a global scale from the convenience of your home office.
• You’ll be part of a collaborative and innovative team dedicated to pushing the boundaries of metallurgical science.