Senior Metallurgist - Mineral Processing

Placements24; Benoni; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Pension fund

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Metallurgist to lead our mineral processing division in Benoni, Gauteng. The role focuses on optimizing recovery and efficiency across comminution, flotation, leaching, and solid-liquid separation, while driving safety and regulatory compliance.

The ideal candidate will have 8+ years in mineral processing, strong leadership, and expertise in metallurgical accounting and process simulation tools, with hands-on laboratory oversight and budgeting responsibilities.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years in mineral processing operations.
• Experience in comminution, flotation, gravity separation, leaching and solid-liquid separation.
• Proficient in metallurgical accounting and process simulation software.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the mineral processing plant.
• Develop strategies to optimize metallurgical processes for yield and recovery.
• Conduct metallurgical test work, pilot plant trials and full-scale evaluations.
• Analyze process data, troubleshoot issues and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate with R&D on new processing technologies.
• Ensure environmental regs and safety standards are met.

Skills

Analytical skills

Leadership

Communication

Project management

Education

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

Tools

JKSimMet

METSIM

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant mining and processing entity operating in Benoni, Gauteng , is seeking an accomplished Senior Metallurgist to lead their mineral processing division. This role is pivotal in optimizing the recovery of valuable minerals from ore through various physical and chemical processes. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of comminution, flotation, leaching, and solid-liquid separation techniques, coupled with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. You will be responsible for improving process efficiency, increasing recovery rates, and ensuring operational stability, contributing directly to the company's profitability and market position. This is a hands-on role requiring significant technical leadership in a key industrial region.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage the day-to-day operations of the mineral processing plant, ensuring efficient and safe functioning.
• Develop and implement strategies to optimize metallurgical processes, focusing on yield, recovery, and cost-effectiveness.
• Conduct metallurgical test work, pilot plant trials, and full-scale plant evaluations to identify areas for improvement.
• Analyze process data, troubleshoot operational issues, and implement corrective actions promptly.
• Collaborate with research and development teams on new processing technologies and methodologies.
• Ensure adherence to all environmental regulations and safety standards within the processing plant.
• Prepare detailed metallurgical reports, including process performance analysis, recommendations, and capital expenditure justifications.
• Manage the metallurgical laboratory, ensuring quality control and accurate analysis of samples.
• Mentor junior metallurgists and technicians, fostering their technical growth and development.
• Contribute to the strategic planning and budgeting for the mineral processing department.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in mineral processing operations, with a strong focus on base metals or precious metals.
• Proven expertise in comminution (crushing, grinding), flotation, gravity separation, leaching (e.g., cyanidation, acid leaching), and solid-liquid separation.
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in metallurgical accounting and process simulation software (e.g., JKSimMet, METSIM).
• Experience in laboratory test design and interpretation.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage budgets and project timelines effectively.
• Knowledge of health, safety, and environmental regulations pertinent to mineral processing.
• Willingness to work on-site in Benoni, Gauteng , and occasionally travel to other mine sites.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including performance bonuses, comprehensive medical aid, and a pension fund.

We provide excellent opportunities for professional development, continuous learning, and career progression within a leading mining organization. Join a dedicated team focused on innovation and operational excellence in the heart of Gauteng's industrial landscape.