Remote Principal Process Engineer - Hydrometallurgy

Placements24; Bellville; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Equity participation

Health insurance

Professional development funding

Flexible working hours

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Remote Principal Process Engineer to lead advancements in hydrometallurgical processes for the global mining industry. You will conceptualize, design, and optimize complex circuits, driving better recovery, lower environmental impact, and higher efficiency.

The role demands 10–12 years in process engineering with hydrometallurgy expertise, advanced degrees, and proven ability to lead teams.

Qualifications

• 10–12 years of progressive experience in process engineering with a strong hydrometallurgy focus.
• Proven ability to design and optimize hydrometallurgical unit operations (leaching, SX, IX, EW, precipitation).
• Expertise in process chemistry, thermodynamics, and kinetics relevant to hydrometallurgy.
• Experience leading complex projects and mentoring cross‑functional teams.
• Strong communication skills for diverse audiences and detailed technical reporting.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and optimization of hydrometallurgical flowsheets from concept to commissioning support.
• Perform mass and energy balances, equipment sizing, and process simulations.
• Conduct feasibility studies, pilot trials, and techno-economic evaluations.
• Provide expert guidance on process chemistry and kinetics; troubleshoot plant issues.
• Mentor junior engineers and drive best practices across teams.
• Develop process control strategies and collaborate with R&D on new technologies.

Skills

Hydrometallurgy expertise

Process design & optimization

Team leadership

Chemical thermodynamics & kinetics

Data analysis & problem solving

Technical reporting & communication

Remote/distributed teams

Education

Master's degree or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, or a closely related field

Tools

METSIM

Aspen Plus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in sustainable mineral extraction, is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Remote Principal Process Engineer to spearhead advancements in hydrometallurgical processes. This is a fully remote position, offering the flexibility to work from any location while contributing to critical projects for the global mining industry . You will be responsible for conceptualizing, designing, and optimizing complex hydrometallurgical circuits, focusing on enhancing recovery rates, reducing environmental impact, and improving operational efficiency. As a Principal Engineer, you will provide expert technical guidance, lead complex studies, and mentor a team of engineers, driving innovation in areas such as solvent extraction, ion exchange, and electrowinning. This is a unique opportunity to influence the strategic direction of mineral processing and contribute to a more sustainable future for resource development.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and optimization of hydrometallurgical process flowsheets, from conceptual design through to detailed engineering and commissioning support.
• Perform mass and energy balance calculations, equipment sizing, and process simulations using industry-standard software.
• Conduct feasibility studies, pilot plant trials, and techno-economic evaluations for new and existing processes.
• Provide expert technical advice on process chemistry, thermodynamics, and kinetics relevant to hydrometallurgy.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex operational issues in existing plants, identifying root causes and implementing effective solutions.
• Mentor and guide junior process engineers and project teams, fostering technical growth and best practices.
• Develop and implement process control strategies to ensure consistent product quality and operational stability.
• Collaborate with R&D teams to evaluate and integrate new technologies and methodologies into process design.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and documentation for internal stakeholders and clients.
• Ensure adherence to safety, environmental, and regulatory standards throughout the project lifecycle.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 10-12 years of progressive experience in process engineering, with a significant specialization in hydrometallurgy .
• Demonstrated expertise in designing and optimizing various hydrometallurgical unit operations (e.g., leaching, SX, IX, EW, precipitation).
• Proficiency in process simulation software such as METSIM, Aspen Plus, or similar.
• Strong understanding of mineralogy, chemistry, and metallurgy as they relate to metal extraction.
• Proven ability to lead complex technical projects and manage cross-functional teams.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information effectively to diverse audiences.
• Experience working in a remote or distributed team environment is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of project management principles is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, including a significant performance bonus and potential for equity participation. This fully remote role provides exceptional work-life integration and the freedom to structure your work effectively. Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance are provided. Opportunities for professional development include funding for advanced training, certifications, and attendance at international conferences. A generous annual leave policy and flexible working hours are standard. You will have the opportunity to work on groundbreaking projects that are shaping the future of sustainable mining and resource recovery.