Senior Metallurgist: Hybrid Process Optimization Lead

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical Insurance

Retirement Plan

Paid Time Off

Hybrid work flexibility

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Metallurgist for a hybrid role based in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. You will lead metallurgical process optimization, supervise testing, and collaborate with site teams to improve recovery and reduce costs.

The role blends remote analytical work with on-site plant support, trials, and commissioning, requiring strong leadership and hands-on problem solving in a dynamic mining environment.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, Mineral Processing, or related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in extractive metallurgy and mineral processing, preferably within mining.
• Proven expertise in metallurgy of base metals, precious metals, or industrial minerals.
• Strong analytical skills and experience with metallurgical simulation software (e.g., METSIM, HSC Chemistry).
• Ability to troubleshoot complex plant operations and implement effective solutions.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills for effective remote and on-site collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and implementation of strategies to optimize metallurgical processes, focusing on recovery, grade, and cost efficiency.
• Conduct laboratory and pilot plant test work to evaluate new processing technologies and reagents.
• Analyze metallurgical data, troubleshoot processing issues, and provide technical solutions to site operations.
• Oversee metallurgical accounting and reporting, ensuring accuracy and consistency.
• Collaborate with site-based engineers, geologists, and operations personnel to implement process improvements.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and proposals for capital projects and process upgrades.
• Mentor junior metallurgists and technicians, fostering learning and improvement.
• Stay abreast of advancements and best practices in mineral processing and metallurgy.
• Ensure adherence to health, safety, and environmental standards in all activities.
• Perform on-site assessments and support plant operations during critical phases.

Skills

Metallurgical expertise

Data analysis

Troubleshooting

Leadership & mentoring

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Metallurgy

PhD in Metallurgy or related field

Tools

METSIM

HSC Chemistry

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Metallurgist for a hybrid role based in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. You will lead metallurgical process optimization, supervise testing, and collaborate with site teams to improve recovery and reduce costs.

The role blends remote analytical work with on-site plant support, trials, and commissioning, requiring strong leadership and hands-on problem solving in a dynamic mining environment.