Senior Metallurgist - Mineral Processing

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Annual bonuses

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Senior Metallurgist for on-site operations in Centurion, Gauteng. The role focuses on optimizing mineral processing circuits, improving recovery and product quality, and leading metallurgical test work from lab scale to plant trials.

The successful candidate will develop process improvements, mentor junior staff, collaborate with operations and engineering teams, and ensure SHE compliance while driving cost reductions through innovative solutions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 7 years of hands-on mineral processing/metallurgy experience.
• Proven expertise in flotation, leaching, gravity separation, and/or hydrometallurgy.
• Strong analytical skills with experience in process simulation and data analysis tools (e.g., JKSimMet, METSIM).
• Ability to troubleshoot complex metallurgical issues in a plant environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; able to present technical reports.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimise, and troubleshoot mineral processing operations (comminution, flotation, leaching).
• Lead metallurgical test work programs from laboratory scale to pilot and plant trials.
• Analyse process data to identify improvements in recovery, grade, and costs.
• Prepare comprehensive metallurgical reports, mass balances, and recommendations.
• Provide technical support to plant operations and engineering teams.
• Mentor junior metallurgists and technicians; promote continuous learning.
• Collaborate with geologists and mine-planning to align strategies with ore characteristics.
• Stay updated with latest advancements in metallurgical science and technology.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent name in the mining and minerals processing industry, is seeking to appoint a highly skilled and experienced Senior Metallurgist for their facility located in Centurion, Gauteng, ZA. This vital role will involve the optimisation of mineral processing circuits, ensuring maximum recovery and product quality. The Senior Metallurgist will be responsible for leading metallurgical testing, process development, and troubleshooting complex operational issues. You will work closely with the operations and engineering teams to implement innovative solutions that enhance efficiency and reduce costs. This is an on-site position requiring a hands-on approach and a deep understanding of various metallurgical processes, including flotation, leaching, and comminution. Our client is dedicated to employing cutting-edge technologies and sustainable practices, and the ideal candidate will be a key contributor to these efforts. This position offers a challenging and rewarding career path within a company committed to excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, optimise, and troubleshoot mineral processing operations, including comminution, flotation, and leaching circuits.


• Conduct and manage metallurgical test work programs, from laboratory scale to pilot and plant trials.


• Analyse process data to identify areas for improvement in recovery, grade, and operational costs.


• Prepare comprehensive metallurgical reports, including process flowsheets, mass balance calculations, and recommendations.


• Provide technical expertise and support to the plant operations and engineering teams.


• Lead or participate in process improvement projects and technology implementation initiatives.


• Ensure compliance with all safety, health, and environmental regulations related to metallurgical operations.


• Mentor junior metallurgists and technicians, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development.


• Stay updated with the latest advancements in metallurgical science and technology.


• Collaborate with geologists and mine planning engineers to align metallurgical strategies with ore body characteristics.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.


• A minimum of 7 years of hands-on experience in mineral processing metallurgy, preferably in base metals or precious metals.


• Demonstrated expertise in flotation, leaching, gravity separation, and/or hydrometallurgy.


• Strong analytical skills with experience in process simulation and data analysis tools (e.g., JKSimMet, METSIM).


• Proven ability to troubleshoot and solve complex metallurgical problems in a plant environment.


• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare and present technical reports.


• Strong leadership and teamwork capabilities.


• Familiarity with SHE (Safety, Health, Environment) management systems in a mining context.


• Ability to work effectively on-site in Centurion, Gauteng, ZA, and commit to the demands of an operational role.


• Must possess the legal right to work in South Africa.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, including medical aid, a provident fund, and annual bonuses based on performance. Opportunities for professional growth and development are actively encouraged through internal and external training programs. You will be working in a state-of-the-art facility with access to advanced processing technologies. The role provides the chance to make a significant impact on operational efficiency and profitability. Our client is committed to fostering a safe and inclusive workplace culture where innovation and collaboration are highly valued. Relocation assistance may be available for suitable candidates from outside the immediate Centurion area. This is an excellent opportunity to advance your career in mineral processing with a reputable industry leader.