Senior Metallurgist - Processing

Placements24; Randburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Competitive remuneration package with/

Medical aid and retirement benefits

Job summary

Placements24 in Randburg, Gauteng, South Africa, is seeking a Senior Metallurgist to join a technical team. The role combines on-site engagement with remote work, focusing on mineral processing, hydrometallurgy, and process optimization.

You will lead test work, pilot runs, plant commissioning, and collaboration with R&D and operations to improve recovery, grade, and efficiency while ensuring regulatory compliance and sustainable practices.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 7+ years in mineral processing with a focus on hydrometallurgy or pyrometallurgy.
• Proven track record in optimizing metallurgical plants in the mining sector.
• Experience with modeling and simulation tools.
• Strong data-driven analytical and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and optimize metallurgical processes for mineral concentration and extraction.
• Conduct metallurgical test work, pilot plant trials, and plant commissioning.
• Troubleshoot processing issues and improve recovery, grade and efficiency.
• Analyze metallurgical data, identify trends, and drive improvements.
• Develop and update metallurgical accounting and reporting systems.
• Collaborate with R&D on new technologies and process innovations.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and sustainable practices.
• Provide technical support to plant metallurgists and operators.
• Prepare detailed metallurgical reports and feasibility studies.
• Stay current with advancements in metallurgical science and processing.
• Contribute to process safety management and risk assessments.
• Support training and development of junior metallurgical staff.

Skills

Hydrometallurgy

Pyrometallurgy

Analytical thinking

Data-driven

Communication & teamwork

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Metallurgical modeling software

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role Our client, a major player in the global Mining and minerals processing sector, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Metallurgist to join their technical team based in Randburg, Gauteng, ZA . This hybrid role offers the opportunity to leverage your expertise in mineral processing and hydrometallurgy, contributing to the optimization and innovation of our client's operations. You will be involved in process development, troubleshooting, and ensuring efficient and sustainable recovery of valuable minerals. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, a deep understanding of metallurgical principles, and a proven ability to drive continuous improvement in processing plants. This position requires a collaborative approach, working closely with plant operations, R&D, and management teams, with a flexible arrangement balancing remote work with essential on-site engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and optimize metallurgical processes for mineral concentration and extraction.
• Conduct metallurgical test work, pilot plant trials, and plant commissioning.
• Troubleshoot processing issues and develop effective solutions to improve recovery, grade, and efficiency.
• Analyze metallurgical data, identify trends, and implement improvement initiatives.
• Develop and update metallurgical accounting and reporting systems.
• Collaborate with R&D teams on the evaluation and implementation of new technologies and process innovations.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and promote sustainable processing practices.
• Provide technical support and guidance to plant metallurgists and operators.
• Prepare detailed metallurgical reports, feasibility studies, and technical presentations.
• Stay current with advancements in metallurgical science and processing technologies relevant to the Mining industry.
• Contribute to process safety management and risk assessments within the metallurgical functions.
• Assist in the training and development of junior metallurgical staff.

Requirements

• 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, with a strong focus on hydrometallurgy or pyrometallurgy.
• Proven experience in troubleshooting and optimizing metallurgical plants in the Mining sector.
• Proficiency in metallurgical modeling and simulation software.
• Strong understanding of various mineral processing techniques (e.g., flotation, leaching, smelting, refining).
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills, with a data‑driven approach.
• Effective communication, interpersonal, and teamwork abilities.
• Experience working in a hybrid environment, with demonstrated ability to manage responsibilities both remotely and on‑site.
• Knowledge of South African mining regulations and environmental standards.
• Experience with specific commodities relevant to the region is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive remuneration package including base salary and performance bonuses.
• Hybrid work model offering a balance of remote and on-site work.
• Comprehensive medical aid, retirement fund, and life insurance benefits.
• Generous annual leave and opportunity for study leave.
• Professional development opportunities, including workshops, conferences, and further education.
• Access to cutting‑edge laboratory facilities and processing technologies.
• Opportunity to work on diverse and challenging mineral processing projects.
• Career progression pathways within a leading international mining company.
• Collaborative work environment with experienced professionals in Randburg, Gauteng, ZA .
• Contribution to sustainable mining practices and resource management.