Senior Metallurgist – Processing Plant Optimization

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

International travel

Paid time off

Accommodation or housing allowance

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Lead Metallurgist to oversee our client’s processing plant in Rustenburg, North West. You will manage metallurgical operations, maximize mineral recovery and ensure product quality while upholding safety and environmental standards.

You will lead and mentor a team of metallurgists and technicians, drive optimization projects, collaborate with geology and engineering, and implement continuous improvement practices such as Six Sigma.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 10 years in metallurgical operations within the mining sector.
• 3–5 years in lead or supervisory role.
• Experience with base metals or precious metals processing circuits.
• Experience in Six Sigma, data analysis, and process improvement.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of SA health, safety, and environmental legislation.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all mineral processing plant operations for optimal performance.
• Lead and develop the metallurgical team to high performance.
• Develop metallurgical strategies to maximize recovery and quality.
• Conduct metallurgical tests, optimization studies, pilot plant trials.
• Analyze plant data to identify improvements and implement actions.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Manage plant budget including Opex and Capex.
• Troubleshoot complex metallurgical and operational issues.
• Collaborate with geology and engineering to align ore characteristics.
• Stay updated with advances in metallurgical tech and best practices.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Process optimization

Data analysis

Project management

Problem-solving

Metallurgy knowledge

Education

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

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Lead Metallurgist to oversee our client’s processing plant in Rustenburg, North West. You will manage metallurgical operations, maximize mineral recovery and ensure product quality while upholding safety and environmental standards.

You will lead and mentor a team of metallurgists and technicians, drive optimization projects, collaborate with geology and engineering, and implement continuous improvement practices such as Six Sigma.