Senior Metallurgist

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Life insurance

Retirement plan

International travel

Professional development

Hybrid work

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Metallurgist to lead metallurgical operations and R&D initiatives in Sandton, SA. You will supervise mineral processing optimization across sites, mentor junior staff, and drive efficiency and product quality improvements while ensuring sustainability and profitability.

The role requires an MSc/PhD and 7+ years in metallurgical roles with strong leadership, troubleshooting, and project management skills; experience with simulation software is a plus.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree (MSc or PhD) in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 7+ years of metallurgical experience, with base metals or precious metals processing.
• Proven track record in process optimization, troubleshooting, and project management.
• In-depth knowledge of mineral processing equipment and techniques.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
• Experience with metallurgical simulation software is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and optimization of mineral processing circuits (flotation, leaching, gravity separation) for various commodities.
• Provide expert metallurgical guidance and troubleshooting for plant operations, ensuring optimal performance and recovery rates.
• Oversee metallurgical test work, analyze results, and recommend process improvements.
• Develop and implement strategies for enhancing product quality and reducing operating costs.
• Mentor and train junior metallurgists and technicians, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in metallurgical technology and best practices within the mining industry.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Problem-solving

Metallurgical optimization

Metallurgical software

Education

MSc/PhD in Metallurgy or related

Tools

Metallurgical simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and innovative Senior Metallurgist to lead their metallurgical operations and research initiatives in Sandton . This role involves overseeing the development and optimization of mineral processing techniques to maximize recovery and product quality across various mining sites. You will provide expert technical guidance, mentor junior metallurgists, and drive advancements in metallurgical processes. Your leadership will be crucial in ensuring our client remains at the forefront of efficient and sustainable mineral extraction, contributing significantly to the profitability and technical excellence of their operations in Gauteng and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and optimization of mineral processing circuits (e.g., flotation, leaching, gravity separation) for various commodities.
• Provide expert metallurgical guidance and troubleshooting for plant operations, ensuring optimal performance and recovery rates.
• Oversee metallurgical test work, analyze results, and recommend process improvements.
• Develop and implement strategies for enhancing product quality and reducing operating costs.
• Mentor and train junior metallurgists and technicians, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in metallurgical technology and best practices within the mining industry.

Requirements

• Advanced degree (MSc or PhD) in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Extensive experience (7+ years) in a metallurgical role, with a strong focus on base metals or precious metals processing.
• Proven track record in process optimization, troubleshooting, and project management.
• In-depth knowledge of mineral processing equipment and techniques.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
• Experience with metallurgical simulation software is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary with significant annual bonus potential.
• Executive health benefits, life insurance, and a robust retirement plan.
• Opportunities for international travel and professional development.
• A leadership position within a prominent mining organization, driving technical innovation.
• Flexible hybrid work arrangement accommodating both office and remote work.