Research Engineer - JHB

Mintek; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 650,000 - 800,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research organization based in Johannesburg is seeking a Research Engineer to develop innovative pyrometallurgical processes. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in experimental techniques, design and operation of electric arc furnaces, and programming skills in C and Python. This position offers opportunities for professional growth and research development.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years’ experience in pyrometallurgy research and technology development.
• Professional recognition and registration are an added advantage.
• Postdoctoral research experience in pyrometallurgy is highly advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Develop experimental techniques, models, and prototypes.
• Design and operate electric arc furnaces at pilot-scale.
• Identify opportunities for further fundamental research.

Skills

Experimental techniques development

Electric arc furnace design

C programming

Python programming

Mechanical design

Education

BEng / BSc (Honors) in Engineering

MEng / MSc in Engineering

Tools

Thermochemical simulation software

FUSION360

FreeCAD

Job description

Job Title: Research Engineer - JHB

Location: Gauteng, Johannesburg

Deadline: August 09, 2025

Job Description

1. Demonstrated ability to develop experimental techniques, models, and prototypes.
2. Experience with designing and operating electric arc furnaces at pilot-scale, with the ability to identify opportunities for further fundamental research from inconclusive or unclear phenomena observed in pilot-scale research projects.
3. Experience in designing pyrometallurgical processes using thermochemical simulation software such as PyroSim and FactSage is an added advantage.
4. Proven experience with coding in C and Python is an added advantage.
5. Proven experience in mechanical design packages such as FUSION360 or FreeCAD is an added advantage.
6. Strong portfolio of publications in peer-reviewed journals is an added advantage.
7. Knowledge or experience with SHEQ systems is essential.
8. Knowledge of technology transfer, commercialization, and product development is highly advantageous.
9. Ability to attract investment or R&D funding is highly advantageous.

Minimum Requirements

1. Minimum 2 years’ experience in pyrometallurgy research and technology development.
2. BEng / BSc (Honors) in Engineering (Metallurgical / Chemical / Process / Mechanical / Electrical) or equivalent, with a focus on pyrometallurgy research and technology development.
3. Ideally, a MEng / MSc in Engineering (Chemical / Metallurgical / Process / Mechanical / Electrical), or equivalent, with a focus on pyrometallurgy research, design, and technology development.
4. Postdoctoral research experience in pyrometallurgy is highly advantageous.
5. Professional recognition and registration are an added advantage.

Note: This job is active and accepting applications.