Senior Metallurgist - Mineral Processing

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Retirement benefits

Professional development

International assignments

Challenging career

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a highly experienced Senior Metallurgist to oversee mineral processing operations at a facility near Durban. You will optimize grinding, flotation, leaching and other circuits, driving recovery and efficiency improvements in a challenging metallurgical environment.

The role requires a Master’s or PhD in Metallurgy or related field, 7+ years in mineral processing, and strong leadership to guide technical teams while ensuring compliance with safety and environmental standards.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• A minimum of 7 years in mineral processing, with exposure to base/ precious metals.
• Expert knowledge of metallurgical unit processes and interactions.
• Proficiency in METSIM and JKSimMet simulation software.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven approach.
• Experience in managing and leading technical teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategies to optimize grinding, flotation, leaching, and other mineral processing circuits.
• Conduct metallurgical test work and pilot plant trials to evaluate new processes and improve existing ones.
• Analyze plant performance data to identify areas for improvement in recovery, grade, and cost efficiency.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and provide technical solutions to maximize plant throughput and yield.
• Oversee the work of metallurgists and technicians, providing guidance and mentorship.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and safety standards in all processing activities.

Skills

Mineral processing

Team leadership

Data analysis

Project management

Education

Master's or PhD in Metallurgy/Chemical Engineering

Tools

METSIM

JKSimMet

Job description

About the Role

Our client seeks a highly experienced Senior Metallurgist to oversee mineral processing operations at their facility near Durban . This role involves optimizing plant performance, enhancing recovery rates, and ensuring efficient processing of valuable minerals. You will be a key contributor to the technical success of the operation, working with state-of-the‑art processing technologies. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of mineral processing techniques and a proven ability to drive improvements in complex metallurgical environments within the mining sector .

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategies to optimize grinding, flotation, leaching, and other mineral processing circuits.
• Conduct metallurgical test work and pilot plant trials to evaluate new processes and improve existing ones.
• Analyze plant performance data to identify areas for improvement in recovery, grade, and cost efficiency.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and provide technical solutions to maximize plant throughput and yield.
• Oversee the work of metallurgists and technicians, providing guidance and mentorship.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and safety standards in all processing activities.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in mineral processing , with significant exposure to base or precious metals.
• Expert knowledge of various metallurgical unit processes and their interactions.
• Proficiency in metallurgical simulation software (e.g., METSIM, JKSimMet).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven approach.
• Experience in managing and leading technical teams.

Benefits

• Attractive salary and bonus structure reflecting expertise and contribution.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Support for professional development and advanced training.
• Potential for international assignments within the group.
• A challenging and rewarding career in the global mining industry .