Senior Hydrometallurgy Metallurgist (Leach/Sx/Ew)

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Life insurance

Generous leave

Professional development

Relocation package

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Metallurgist specializing in hydrometallurgy to join the processing team in Rustenburg. The role focuses on optimizing metal recovery from ore through leaching, SX, and EW, with hands‑on design, troubleshooting, piloting, and scale‑up responsibilities.

The ideal candidate holds a Master's/PhD in metallurgy or chemical engineering with 7+ years in metallurgical processing, and demonstrates strong data analysis, thermodynamics knowledge, and team collaboration in a

Qualifications

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in metallurgical processing, with a strong focus on hydrometallurgy.
• Proven expertise in designing and operating leaching, SX, and EW circuits.
• Experience with process simulation software and data analysis tools.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and ability to communicate complex technical information clearly.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and scale up hydrometallurgical processes, including leaching, solvent extraction, and electrowinning.
• Conduct laboratory and pilot plant testing to evaluate reagents, process conditions, and equipment.
• Troubleshoot operational issues within the metallurgical plant, identifying root causes and implementing effective solutions.
• Analyze process data, perform material balances, and conduct economic evaluations for process improvements.
• Collaborate with engineers, chemists, and plant operators to ensure safe and efficient plant operation.
• Stay current with advancements in hydrometallurgical technologies and best practices to enhance recovery and reduce costs.

Skills

Metallurgy expertise

Hydrometallurgy

Team collaboration

Education

Master's or PhD in Metallurgy/Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Data analysis tools

Job description

• What Senior Hydrometallurgy Metallurgist Leach...

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly skilled Senior Metallurgist with a specialization in hydrometallurgy to join their processing team in Rustenburg . This critical role will focus on optimizing the recovery of valuable metals from ore through chemical processes. You will be responsible for process design, troubleshooting, piloting, and scaling up hydrometallurgical circuits, ensuring maximum efficiency and yield. This hands‑on position requires deep technical expertise and a commitment to operational excellence in a demanding industrial environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and scale up hydrometallurgical processes, including leaching, solvent extraction, and electrowinning.
• Conduct laboratory and pilot plant testing to evaluate new reagents, process conditions, and equipment.
• Troubleshoot operational issues within the metallurgical plant, identifying root causes and implementing effective solutions.
• Analyze process data, perform material balances, and conduct economic evaluations for process improvements.
• Collaborate with engineers, chemists, and plant operators to ensure safe and efficient plant operation.
• Stay current with advancements in hydrometallurgical technologies and best practices to enhance recovery and reduce costs.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in metallurgical processing, with a strong focus on hydrometallurgy.
• Proven expertise in designing and operating leaching, SX, and EW circuits.
• Experience with process simulation software and data analysis tools.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and a strong understanding of chemical thermodynamics and kinetics.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and communicate complex technical information clearly.

Benefits

• Attractive annual salary with performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid, retirement fund, and life insurance.
• Generous leave allowance and paid public holidays.
• Opportunities for continued professional development and advanced training.
• Relocation package available for candidates moving to the Rustenburg area.