Senior Metallurgist - Hydrometallurgy Specialist

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation package

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Life insurance

Paid holidays

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Metallurgist with hydrometallurgy expertise to join a processing team in Rustenburg. You will optimize metal recovery through leaching, SX, and EW, and lead scale-up from pilot to production, ensuring safety and efficiency.

Requires a PhD/Masters in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering with 7+ years in metallurgical processing and strong data-driven problem solving. relocation assistance may be offered.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 7+ years of experience in metallurgical processing with hydrometallurgy focus.
• Experience designing and operating leaching, SX, and EW circuits.
• Experience with process simulation software and data analysis tools.
• Strong problem-solving and understanding of thermodynamics and kinetics.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and scale up hydrometallurgical processes (leaching, SX, EW).
• Conduct laboratory and pilot plant testing to evaluate reagents and conditions.
• Troubleshoot plant issues, identify root causes, and implement solutions.
• Analyze process data, perform material balances, and evaluate economics of improvements.

Skills

Hydrometallurgy

Process design

Troubleshooting

Data analysis

Team collaboration

Education

Master's degree in Metallurgy

Ph.D. in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Process simulation software

Data analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly skilled Senior Metallurgist with a specialization in hydrometallurgy to join their processing team in Rustenburg . This critical role will focus on optimizing the recovery of valuable metals from ore through chemical processes. You will be responsible for process design, troubleshooting, piloting, and scaling up hydrometallurgical circuits, ensuring maximum efficiency and yield. This hands-on position requires deep technical expertise and a commitment to operational excellence in a demanding industrial environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and scale up hydrometallurgical processes, including leaching, solvent extraction, and electrowinning.
• Conduct laboratory and pilot plant testing to evaluate new reagents, process conditions, and equipment.
• Troubleshoot operational issues within the metallurgical plant, identifying root causes and implementing effective solutions.
• Analyze process data, perform material balances, and conduct economic evaluations for process improvements.
• Collaborate with engineers, chemists, and plant operators to ensure safe and efficient plant operation.
• Stay current with advancements in hydrometallurgical technologies and best practices to enhance recovery and reduce costs.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in metallurgical processing, with a strong focus on hydrometallurgy.
• Proven expertise in designing and operating leaching, SX, and EW circuits.
• Experience with process simulation software and data analysis tools.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and a strong understanding of chemical thermodynamics and kinetics.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and communicate complex technical information clearly.

Benefits

• Attractive annual salary with performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid, retirement fund, and life insurance.
• Generous leave allowance and paid public holidays.
• Opportunities for continued professional development and advanced training.
• Relocation package available for candidates moving to the Rustenburg area.