Senior Metallurgist - Mineral Processing Optimization

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

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work

Health insurance

Professional development

Bonus potential

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Metallurgist to optimize mineral processing operations near Pretoria. You will lead circuits, supervise pilot tests, and drive improvements to recovery, efficiency, and cost.

The role requires a Master’s or PhD in Metallurgy or related field with 7+ years of mineral processing experience; strong leadership and communication are essential. Hybrid work and a comprehensive benefits package are offered.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 7+ years of mineral processing experience with strong ore optimization.
• Experience with METSIM or JKSimMet software is desirable.
• Proven leadership and project management skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead development, optimization, and implementation of mineral processing circuits to maximize metal recovery and product quality.
• Conduct pilot plant and laboratory test work to evaluate new technologies, process improvements, and metallurgical responses to ore variability.
• Perform root cause analysis on process upsets and implement effective solutions to ensure operational stability and efficiency.
• Collaborate with mine operations, engineering, and R&D teams to translate laboratory findings into full-scale plant applications.
• Mentor and guide junior metallurgists and technicians, fostering a culture of continuous learning and technical excellence.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Mentoring

Metallurgy expertise

Mineral processing

Education

Master's/PhD in Metallurgy or related

Tools

METSIM

JKSimMet

Job description

Our client is seeking a highly skilled and results-oriented Senior Metallurgist to enhance mineral processing operations for their facilities near Pretoria . This role is pivotal in optimizing recovery rates, improving process efficiency, and reducing operational costs through advanced metallurgical techniques. You will lead process development initiatives, troubleshoot complex operational challenges, and mentor junior metallurgists. This is a significant opportunity to drive innovation in mineral processing and contribute to the company's profitability and sustainability goals within a key industrial hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development, optimization, and implementation of mineral processing circuits (e.g., comminution, flotation, leaching, thickening) to maximize metal recovery and product quality.
• Conduct pilot plant and laboratory test work to evaluate new technologies, process improvements, and metallurgical responses to ore variability.
• Perform root cause analysis on process upsets and implement effective solutions to ensure operational stability and efficiency.
• Collaborate with mine operations, engineering, and R&D teams to translate laboratory findings into full-scale plant applications.
• Mentor and guide junior metallurgists and technicians, fostering a culture of continuous learning and technical excellence.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in mineral processing, with a strong track record in optimizing complex ore bodies.
• In-depth knowledge of various mineral processing unit operations and their interdependencies.
• Experience with metallurgical simulation software (e.g., METSIM, JKSimMet) is highly desirable.
• Proven leadership and project management skills, with excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.

Benefits

• Competitive remuneration package including annual bonus.
• Hybrid work arrangement offering flexibility and work-life balance.
• Comprehensive health, life, and disability insurance.
• Support for professional development, including conference attendance and further training.
• Exciting projects in the thriving mining sector around Pretoria .