Senior Metallurgist - Process Optimization

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary commensurate with experience

Performance-based incentives

Annual bonuses

Health insurance and retirement plans

Career advancement opportunities

International assignments

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Metallurgist to join its mining operations in Rustenburg. You will optimize ore processing, improve metal recovery, and lead technical projects with strong analytical and leadership skills.

The role requires a solid track record in flotation, gravity separation, leaching, and practical lab/pilot plant testing. Ideal candidates hold a metallurgical or chemical engineering degree (Masters/PhD advantageous) and can manage multiple initiatives while ensuring safety and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field is required.
• 7+ years hands-on experience in mineral processing/metallurgy within mining.
• Expertise in flotation, gravity separation, leaching, and related techniques.
• Proficiency with metallurgical simulation software (METSIM, JKSimFloat).
• Strong laboratory and pilot plant testing know-how.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and lead technical teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and monitor metallurgical test work programs for ore processing circuits.
• Analyze process data to identify bottlenecks and improve recovery, grade, and throughput.
• Provide expert troubleshooting support to plant operations.
• Conduct feasibility studies and pilot plant trials for new technologies or modifications.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Prepare metallurgical reports, flow diagrams, and cost estimates for improvements.

Skills

Mineral processing

Metallurgy

Flotation

Gravity separation

Leaching

Data analysis

Project leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Master's degree or PhD advantageous

Tools

METSIM

JKSimFloat

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly skilled and results-oriented Senior Metallurgist to join their established mining operations in Rustenburg . This critical role focuses on optimizing mineral processing techniques to enhance recovery rates and improve overall operational efficiency. You will be at the forefront of metallurgical innovation, troubleshooting complex processing challenges, and implementing best practices to ensure the highest possible yield from extracted ores. This position demands a rigorous scientific approach combined with practical industrial experience, contributing to the company's profitability and sustainability goals within a key mining hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and monitor metallurgical test work programs to optimize ore processing circuits, including comminution, flotation, and leaching.
• Analyze process data to identify operational bottlenecks and develop strategies for improving metal recovery, concentrate grade, and throughput.
• Provide expert technical guidance and troubleshooting support to plant operations personnel.
• Conduct feasibility studies and pilot plant trials for new process technologies or modifications.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, health, and environmental regulations pertaining to metallurgical operations.
• Prepare detailed metallurgical reports, process flow diagrams, and cost estimates for process improvements and capital projects.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field; Master's degree or PhD is advantageous.
• A minimum of 7 years of hands-on experience in mineral processing and metallurgy within the mining industry.
• Demonstrated expertise in flotation , gravity separation, leaching, and other relevant mineral processing techniques.
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency with metallurgical simulation software (e.g., METSIM, JKSimFloat).
• Excellent understanding of laboratory and pilot plant testing methodologies.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and lead technical teams effectively.

Benefits

• Attractive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Performance-based incentives and annual bonuses.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for career advancement and international assignments.
• A safe and supportive work environment committed to professional growth.