Senior Metallurgist - Processing Optimization

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

International exposure

Bonus potential

Medical benefits

Career advancement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Metallurgist to lead optimization of mineral processing operations in the Rustenburg region. You will drive improvements across plant circuits, troubleshoot complex metallurgical challenges, and implement new technologies to boost recovery and efficiency.

Ideal candidates hold a Master’s degree or PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering with 7+ years of hands-on experience in base or precious metals processing.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• 7+ years of hands-on experience in base metals or precious metals processing.
• Strong understanding of flotation, leaching, and solid-liquid separation.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement process improvements to enhance metal recovery and reduce operating costs.
• Conduct metallurgical test work and analyze results to optimize comminution, flotation, and leaching circuits.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and provide expert technical support to plant personnel.
• Monitor plant performance, analyze data, and generate reports on key metallurgical parameters.
• Stay abreast of new metallurgical technologies and evaluate their applicability to current operations.
• Collaborate with research and development teams on pilot plant studies and new process introductions.

Skills

Metallurgy

Chemical Engineering

Statistical analysis

Metallurgical software

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Master's degree in Metallurgy

PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Tools

Metallurgical simulation software

Statistical analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client seeks a highly skilled and innovative Senior Metallurgist to lead efforts in optimizing mineral processing operations in the Rustenburg area. This role is central to maximizing metal recovery and operational efficiency across various processing plants. You will be responsible for troubleshooting complex metallurgical challenges, implementing new technologies, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. This is an excellent opportunity to make a significant impact on profitability and sustainability within a major mining enterprise.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement process improvements to enhance metal recovery and reduce operating costs.
• Conduct metallurgical test work and analyze results to optimize comminution, flotation, and leaching circuits.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and provide expert technical support to plant personnel.
• Monitor plant performance, analyze data, and generate reports on key metallurgical parameters.
• Stay abreast of new metallurgical technologies and evaluate their applicability to current operations.
• Collaborate with research and development teams on pilot plant studies and new process introductions.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of hands-on experience in base metals or precious metals processing.
• Strong understanding of mineral processing principles, including flotation, leaching, and solid-liquid separation.
• Proficiency in metallurgical simulation software and statistical analysis tools.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to effectively liaise with operational teams and management.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience, plus performance bonuses.
• Extensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Relocation assistance provided.
• Opportunities for international exposure and career advancement within the mining sector.

A collaborative workplace that values innovation and operational excellence.