Senior Metallurgist - Mineral Processing

Placements24; Welkom; Sur place; ZAR 900 000 - 1 200 000; Plein temps

Avantages offerts par ce poste

Medical aid

Life cover

Retirement fund

Professional development

Résumé du poste

Our client in the mining and metals sector seeks a Senior Metallurgist to optimize mineral processing at the Welkom plant, driving recovery improvements and cost efficiencies. You will troubleshoot operations, run test work, and influence process changes with operators, engineers, and R&D teams.

The role requires 7+ years in mineral processing, a relevant degree (BSc/BEng, MSc preferred), and hands-on experience with METSIM or Outotec HSC.

Qualifications

• BSc or BEng in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field; MSc advantageous.
• Minimum 7 years in mineral processing/metallurgy within mining.
• Experience with various ore types and processing circuits (gold, PGMs, base metals).
• Strong knowledge of chemical principles, physical metallurgy, and thermodynamics.
• Proficiency in metallurgical simulation software and data analysis tools.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making abilities.
• Strong communication and leadership to guide technical discussions.
• Experience with process optimization techniques and SPC.
• Ability to work in plant environment; occasional shift work.

Responsabilités

• Oversee and optimize mineral processing operations (comminution, flotation, leaching, refining).
• Troubleshoot plant issues and implement corrective actions to maximize recovery.
• Conduct metallurgical test work and pilot studies to evaluate new processes.
• Analyze process data to identify trends and inefficiencies.
• Develop and implement process control strategies for product quality and recovery.
• Collaborate with R&D on new technology adoption.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Train and mentor junior metallurgists and plant operators.
• Prepare technical reports and metallurgical accounting, performance monitoring.
• Stay updated on metallurgical advancements relevant to mining.

Connaissances

Metallurgy

Data analysis

Problem solving

Leadership

Communication

SPC

Shift work

Mentoring

Formation

BSc/BEng in Metallurgy or Chemical Eng

MSc advantageous

Outils

METSIM

Outotec HSC

Description du poste

About the Role

Our client, a significant player in the mining and metals industry, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Metallurgist to join their processing plant operations in Welkom, Free State. This role is crucial for optimizing mineral processing operations, improving recovery rates, and ensuring the efficient and cost-effective extraction of valuable minerals. The Senior Metallurgist will be responsible for troubleshooting plant issues, implementing process improvements, and conducting metallurgical test work. You will work closely with plant operators, engineers, and research teams to drive innovation and enhance operational performance. This position offers a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a large-scale operation and play a key role in achieving production targets within a challenging yet rewarding environment. The Free State province is a hub for significant mining activities, offering a dynamic career path for professionals in this field. Our client is committed to operational excellence and technological advancement in metallurgy.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and optimize mineral processing operations, including comminution, flotation, leaching, and refining.
• Troubleshoot plant operational issues and implement corrective actions to minimize downtime and maximize recovery.
• Conduct metallurgical test work and pilot plant studies to evaluate new processes and improve existing ones.
• Analyze process data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement.
• Develop and implement process control strategies to ensure consistent product quality and recovery.
• Collaborate with the research and development team on new technology adoption and innovation.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations within the processing plant.
• Train and mentor junior metallurgists and plant operators.
• Prepare technical reports, metallurgical accounting, and performance monitoring documentation.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in metallurgical science and engineering relevant to the mining industry.

Requirements

• BSc or BEng in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field. An MSc is advantageous.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in mineral processing and metallurgy within the mining sector.
• Proven experience with various ore types and processing circuits (e.g., gold, platinum group metals, base metals).
• Strong understanding of chemical principles, physical metallurgy, and process thermodynamics.
• Proficiency in metallurgical simulation software (e.g., METSIM, Outotec HSC) and data analysis tools.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making capabilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to lead technical discussions.
• Experience with process optimization techniques and statistical process control (SPC).
• Ability to work effectively in a plant environment, including occasional shift work if required.
• Professional registration with a relevant body (e.g., SAIMM) is desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package designed to attract highly skilled metallurgists, along with a performance-based bonus scheme. Comprehensive medical aid, life cover, and a robust retirement fund are provided. Opportunities for professional development, including attending industry conferences and specialized training courses, are readily available. This role offers the chance to work within a key operational hub in the Free State, contributing to a company committed to innovation and sustainability in the mining industry. Limited accommodation assistance may be available. Our client values employee growth and provides clear career progression pathways.