Senior Operations Manager - Mineral Processing

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid and retirement fund

Professional development and career-hr

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Operations Manager to lead a mineral processing facility in Upington, Northern Cape. The role focuses on safe, efficient plant operation, ensuring optimal mineral recovery and cost control.

You will drive continuous improvement, manage budgets, and mentor a technical team across metallurgy, maintenance, and safety functions. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's in Metallurgical or Chemical Engineering, with 8+ years in operations management within mineral

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field required.
• Minimum 8 years in operations management within mineral processing; at least 3 years in a senior leadership role.
• Master's degree is advantageous; strong knowledge of mineral processing technologies and safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day mineral processing plant operations to meet production targets and quality standards.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and maximise mineral recovery.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations and company policies.

Skills

Leadership

Operations management

Process control

Maintenance management

Budgeting

Safety

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Metallurgical/ Chemical Eng

Master's degree

Tools

Process control systems

Automation

Maintenance management systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key contributor to the mining value chain, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Operations Manager to lead their mineral processing facility in Upington, Northern Cape . This critical leadership position is responsible for the safe, efficient, and cost-effective operation of the processing plant, ensuring optimal recovery of valuable minerals. The successful candidate will oversee all aspects of plant operations, including metallurgy, maintenance, health, safety, and environmental compliance. You will be instrumental in driving continuous improvement initiatives, managing operational budgets, and leading a dedicated team of professionals. This role offers a significant career opportunity to manage large-scale processing operations in a resource-rich region. We are looking for a results-oriented leader with a deep understanding of mineral processing technologies and a strong commitment to operational excellence and safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the mineral processing plant, ensuring production targets and quality standards are met.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and maximize mineral recovery.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and environmental regulations and company policies.
• Manage operational budgets, control expenses, and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of supervisors, operators, and technical staff.
• Oversee the maintenance and reliability of plant equipment to minimize downtime.
• Collaborate with the metallurgy and engineering departments to troubleshoot process issues and implement improvements.
• Develop and implement robust safety protocols and promote a strong safety culture throughout the operation.
• Manage stakeholder relationships, including internal departments, suppliers, and regulatory bodies.
• Contribute to long-term strategic planning for the processing division.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A Master's degree is advantageous.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in operations management within the mineral processing sector, with at least 3 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven expertise in managing large-scale mineral processing plants (e.g., crushing, grinding, flotation, leaching, refining).
• Strong understanding of process control, automation, and maintenance management systems.
• In-depth knowledge of health, safety, and environmental regulations in the mining industry.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing operational budgets.
• Demonstrated ability to drive continuous improvement and implement change effectively.
• Willingness to relocate or reside in proximity to Upington, Northern Cape.
• Experience with specific commodities relevant to the region is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, including significant performance-based bonuses and comprehensive benefits such as medical aid and a retirement fund.
• Opportunities for professional development, leadership training, and career advancement within the organization are plentiful.
• This position in Upington, Northern Cape , offers a chance to lead critical operations within the growing mining sector.
• We provide a dynamic work environment focused on safety, efficiency, and innovation, supporting a challenging and rewarding career path.