Senior Metallurgist - Base Metals Processing

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Senior Metallurgist to join our client’s processing division in Kimberley, Northern Cape. This on-site role focuses on optimizing base metals recovery through flotation, leaching, and solid-liquid separation, with oversight of plant operations and technical leadership.

The ideal candidate has 8+ years in base metals processing, strong analytical and leadership skills, and a Bachelor’s or Master’s in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 8+ years in base metals processing operations.
• Experience with flotation chemistry, circuit optimization, and hydrometallurgy.
• Proficiency with metallurgical simulation and data analysis software.

Responsibilities

• Oversee base metal concentration processes including flotation, leaching, and solid-liquid separation.
• Conduct metallurgical test work and pilot plant trials to improve performance.
• Analyze plant data, identify root causes of inefficiencies, and implement solutions.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and mentor metallurgists and technicians.
• Develop and maintain process control strategies to maximize recovery and product quality.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Prepare technical reports and metallurgical accounting; drive process improvements.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Communication

Problem-solving

Decision-making

Mentoring

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Metallurgical simulation software

Data analysis software

Job description

About the Role Our client, a significant mining operation, is seeking an experienced Senior Metallurgist to join their processing division in Kimberley, Northern Cape. This is a critical on-site role focused on optimizing the recovery of base metals (such as copper, zinc, and lead) through advanced metallurgical processes. You will be responsible for overseeing plant operations, troubleshooting complex metallurgical challenges, and driving initiatives to improve yield, grade, and cost efficiency. The ideal candidate will possess extensive hands-on experience in base metals processing, strong analytical skills, and a proven ability to lead technical teams in a challenging operational environment. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute significantly to the success of a major mining project in Kimberley.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and optimize base metal concentration processes, including flotation, leaching, and solid-liquid separation.
• Conduct metallurgical test work and pilot plant trials to improve process performance and evaluate new technologies.
• Analyze plant data, identify root causes of process inefficiencies, and implement effective solutions.
• Troubleshoot operational issues, providing expert guidance to plant metallurgists and operators.
• Develop and maintain process control strategies to ensure consistent product quality and maximize recovery.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Prepare technical reports, metallurgical accounting, and process improvement recommendations.
• Mentor and train junior metallurgists and technicians.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of experience in base metals processing operations.
• Demonstrated expertise in flotation chemistry, circuit optimization, and hydrometallurgy.
• Proficiency with metallurgical simulation and data analysis software.
• Strong understanding of mineral processing fundamentals and equipment.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Effective communication and leadership skills.
• Experience working in a demanding operational setting is essential.
• Professional registration (e.g., SACiMM) is advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, a pension fund, and performance-based bonuses.
• Significant opportunities for professional development, training, and career advancement are available.
• This role is based at our operational facility in Kimberley, Northern Cape.
• We are committed to fostering a safe, productive, and inclusive work environment.