Senior Metallurgist - Extractive Metallurgy

Placements24; Klerksdorp; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Performance-based bonuses

Professional development opportunities

Generous annual leave

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 in Klerksdorp, North West, SA, seeks a Senior Metallurgist to lead metallurgical process optimization for mineral extraction and recovery. You will apply advanced metallurgical principles, mentor juniors, and drive improvements across plant operations in a dynamic mining environment.

The role requires a strong background in extractive metallurgy, with 7+ years in mining, and a track record of applying process simulation and data analysis to boost yield, grade, and efficiency.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum of 7 years hands-on experience in extractive metallurgy within mining.
• Proven expertise in mineral processing techniques (comminution, flotation, leaching, refining).
• Strong ability to interpret metallurgical data and translate into practical solutions.
• Familiarity with health, safety, and environmental regulations.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimize metallurgical processes for the extraction and recovery.
• Conduct laboratory and pilot-scale test work to evaluate new processes.
• Analyze process data to drive improvements in recovery, grade, and cost.
• Mentor junior metallurgists and support technical development.
• Participate in hazard analyses and ensure safety compliance.
• Prepare detailed reports and feasibility studies.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Critical-thinking

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Education

Master's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field

PhD advantageous

Tools

Process simulation software

Modeling software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant entity in the metals and mining sector, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Metallurgist to join their innovative team in Klerksdorp, North West . This role is central to optimizing the extraction and processing of valuable minerals, ensuring maximum yield and product quality. You will apply advanced metallurgical principles and techniques to solve complex challenges, drive process improvements, and contribute to the overall efficiency and profitability of the operations. This is an outstanding opportunity to work with a variety of ore bodies and cutting‑edge processing technologies in the vibrant South African mining landscape. You will be a key technical advisor, influencing critical decisions regarding mineral processing and metal recovery. This position offers substantial career growth and the chance to lead impactful projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimize metallurgical processes for the extraction and recovery of target minerals.
• Conduct laboratory and pilot‑scale test work to evaluate new processes and improve existing ones.
• Analyze process data to identify areas for improvement in recovery, grade, and cost efficiency.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and provide technical solutions to ensure smooth plant operation.
• Collaborate with operations, engineering, and R&D teams to implement process changes and new technologies.
• Ensure all metallurgical operations comply with safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Prepare detailed metallurgical reports, technical recommendations, and feasibility studies.
• Stay current with advancements in extractive metallurgy, mineral processing equipment, and analytical techniques.
• Mentor junior metallurgists and support their technical development.
• Participate in process hazard analyses and risk assessments.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field. A PhD is an advantage.
• Minimum of 7 years of hands‑on experience in extractive metallurgy, particularly within the mining and minerals processing industry.
• Proven expertise in mineral processing techniques such as comminution, flotation, leaching, and refining.
• Strong understanding of process simulation and modeling software.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and critical‑thinking skills.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret complex metallurgical data and translate it into practical solutions.
• Effective communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with quality control and assurance in a metallurgical context.
• Familiarity with relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Must be legally authorized to work in South Africa and comfortable with the location in Klerksdorp, North West .

Benefits

• A competitive salary package commensurate with your experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Performance‑based bonuses and recognition awards.
• Opportunities for professional development, including further education and industry conferences.
• Generous annual leave and other paid time off.
• Relocation assistance available for candidates moving to Klerksdorp .
• A stimulating work environment with opportunities for innovation and impact in the Oil & Gas and mining sectors.