Senior Chemical Engineer - Mining and Minerals

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Pension contributions

Performance bonus

Hybrid work model

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Chemical Engineer to lead metallurgical process optimization in a mining context. The role blends on-site plant work with remote analysis and reporting, targeting improved recovery and efficiency.

The ideal candidate has a strong background in hydrometallurgy, pyrometallurgy, or mineral processing, with 7+ years in process engineering and a Pr.Eng. eligibility being advantageous. Join a team focused on environmental stewardship and sustainable operations.

Qualifications

• B.Sc. or M.Sc. in Chemical Engineering or Metallurgical Engineering.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in process engineering within mining/mineral industries.
• Strong knowledge of mineral processing techniques (flotation, leaching, solid-liquid separation).
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng.) eligibility is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Optimize metallurgical and chemical processes in mining operations.
• Design and implement process improvements to increase mineral recovery and product quality.
• Conduct feasibility studies and techno-economic assessments for new process technologies.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and provide technical solutions for plant challenges.
• Oversee pilot plant studies and data analysis for process validation.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and promote sustainable practices.
• Prepare technical reports, engineering specifications, and project documentation.
• Collaborate with metallurgists, geologists, and operations teams.
• Evaluate and recommend new equipment and technologies for process enhancement.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Decision making

Strong communication

Team collaboration

Education

B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering

M.Sc. in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading entity in the mining and minerals processing sector, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Chemical Engineer to join their team in Nelspruit . This role is critical for optimizing metallurgical processes, improving recovery rates, and ensuring efficient and sustainable operations. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of hydrometallurgy, pyrometallurgy, or mineral processing. This hybrid role offers a combination of on-site work for crucial plant operations and collaborative team meetings, alongside remote flexibility for detailed analysis and reporting. You will provide expert technical leadership, contribute to process improvements, and support capital projects aimed at enhancing operational performance and environmental stewardship. This is an excellent opportunity to apply your chemical engineering expertise in a vital industry sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Optimize metallurgical and chemical processes in mining operations.
• Design and implement process improvements to increase mineral recovery and product quality.
• Conduct feasibility studies and techno-economic assessments for new process technologies.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and provide technical solutions for plant challenges.
• Oversee pilot plant studies and data analysis for process validation.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and promote sustainable practices.
• Prepare technical reports, engineering specifications, and project documentation.
• Collaborate with metallurgists, geologists, and operations teams.
• Evaluate and recommend new equipment and technologies for process enhancement.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance.

Requirements

• B.Sc. or M.Sc. in Chemical Engineering or Metallurgical Engineering.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in process engineering within the mining and minerals industry.
• Strong knowledge of mineral processing techniques (e.g., flotation, leaching, solid-liquid separation).
• Experience with process simulation software relevant to mineral processing.
• Proven ability to optimize complex chemical processes.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing on-site and remote tasks.
• Experience with environmental management in mining is a plus.
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng.) or eligibility is advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance and retirement contributions. The hybrid work model provides a good balance between on-site engagement and remote flexibility. Opportunities for professional development and training are provided. This role, based in Nelspruit , allows for significant contribution to the mining sector.