Remote Principal Metallurgist – R&D Leader

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,400,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Performance bonus

Fully remote position

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Metallurgist to lead R&D in mineral processing, hydrometallurgy, and pyrometallurgy. The role focuses on optimizing circuits, developing new technologies, and improving metal recovery for multiple commodities.

It is based remotely, serving operations near Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. You will design pilot plant tests, troubleshoot metallurgical problems, and develop process models to predict performance.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 12+ years of progressive experience in mineral processing with emphasis on R&D and process development.
• Proven ability to optimize mineral processing circuits (e.g., comminution, flotation, leaching, solvent extraction, electrowinning).
• Experience with remote or hybrid work settings is essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and optimization of metallurgical processes for various mineral commodities.
• Design and execute laboratory and pilot plant tests to evaluate new technologies and improve existing circuits.
• Troubleshoot complex metallurgical problems in operating plants and provide timely solutions.
• Develop process models and simulations to predict plant performance and identify improvement opportunities.
• Conduct techno-economic evaluations of new metallurgical processes and capital investment proposals.
• Prepare technical reports and recommendations for senior management.
• Stay abreast of advancements in metallurgical science and assess applications to operations.
• Collaborate with operations, R&D personnel, and external research institutions.
• Mentor junior metallurgists and contribute to the department's technical growth.
• Ensure all activities comply with safety, health, and environmental regulations.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Project management

Technical communication

Education

Master's or PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Metallurgical simulation software

Statistical analysis tools

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Metallurgist to lead R&D in mineral processing, hydrometallurgy, and pyrometallurgy. The role focuses on optimizing circuits, developing new technologies, and improving metal recovery for multiple commodities.

It is based remotely, serving operations near Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. You will design pilot plant tests, troubleshoot metallurgical problems, and develop process models to predict performance.