Senior Metallurgist – Base Metals Processing Leader (Hybrid)

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical cover

Retirement fund

Performance-related bonuses

Hybrid work arrangements

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Metallurgist for a major mining operation near George, Western Cape. The role leads metallurgical processing across base metals, optimizing recovery and product quality while driving safety and technical excellence.

You will manage a team of metallurgists and technicians, develop test programs, analyze plant data, and deliver reports and capital proposals. Hybrid work options include occasional site travel to optimize operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years in metallurgical processing with base metals focus.
• Leadership experience overseeing technical teams and plant operations.
• Experience with process optimization and troubleshooting in mineral processing.

Responsibilities

• Oversee base metals processing operations including crushing, grinding, flotation, leaching and refining.
• Develop and monitor metallurgical test work programs to optimize recovery and grade.
• Analyze plant performance data, identify bottlenecks and implement improvements.
• Lead and mentor metallurgists and technicians, ensuring safety and excellence.
• Prepare metallurgical reports, capital proposals and performance summaries.
• Collaborate with mining, geology and maintenance teams for integrated operations.
• Manage metallurgical budget and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and best practices.

Skills

Leadership

Process optimization

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication

Travel readiness

Education

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

Tools

METSIM

JKSimMet

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Metallurgist for a major mining operation near George, Western Cape. The role leads metallurgical processing across base metals, optimizing recovery and product quality while driving safety and technical excellence.

You will manage a team of metallurgists and technicians, develop test programs, analyze plant data, and deliver reports and capital proposals. Hybrid work options include occasional site travel to optimize operations.