Senior Process Controller

Placements24; Upington; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Paid leave

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Process Controller for a hybrid role at our client’s mineral processing facility in Upington, Northern Cape. You will monitor and optimize processing circuits, ensuring high production efficiency, product quality, and safety compliance.

With 6+ years in process control, you will guide junior controllers, analyze data, and implement improvements using DCS and process simulation tools. A degree in Chemical Engineering or Metallurgy is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or National Diploma in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgy, or related field.
• 6+ years in process control within mining/mineral processing.
• Experience with complex processing circuits and DCS.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Experience supervising or mentoring is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and optimize mineral processing circuits for performance.
• Analyze data and control parameters to identify trends and improvements.
• Adjust control strategies to maintain target recovery and quality.
• Troubleshoot process upsets and perform root-cause analysis.
• Prepare shift reports and recommendations for optimization.
• Mentor junior process controllers and collaborate with engineers.
• Operate and maintain process control systems and instrumentation.
• Ensure safety, health, and environmental compliance.

Skills

Process control

Data analysis

Problem solving

Communication

Team leadership

DCS familiarity

Metallurgical knowledge

Education

Diploma/Bachelor in Chemical Engineering or Metallurgy

Tools

DCS systems

Process simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key player in the mineral processing industry, is seeking an experienced Senior Process Controller to join their facility in Upington, Northern Cape, ZA . This hybrid role balances essential on-site operational oversight with remote-based analysis and reporting, offering a unique blend of practical engagement and strategic input. The Senior Process Controller will be responsible for monitoring and optimizing complex processing plant operations, ensuring efficient production, product quality, and adherence to safety and environmental standards. You will play a vital role in troubleshooting operational issues, implementing process improvements, and guiding junior controllers. This position requires a deep understanding of mineral processing circuits and a proactive approach to maintaining optimal plant performance. We are looking for a dedicated individual who can contribute significantly to the efficiency and success of our processing operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and control various mineral processing circuits (e.g., crushing, grinding, flotation, leaching) to ensure optimal performance.
• Analyze process data and control parameters to identify trends, deviations, and opportunities for improvement.
• Implement process adjustments and control strategies to maintain target recovery rates and product quality.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and participate in root cause analysis for process upsets.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, health, and environmental regulations within the processing plant.
• Supervise and mentor junior process controllers, providing guidance and training.
• Collaborate with metallurgists, engineers, and maintenance staff to address operational challenges.
• Prepare shift reports, performance summaries, and recommendations for process optimization.
• Operate and maintain process control systems and instrumentation.

Requirements

• National Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgy, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in process control within the mining or mineral processing industry.
• Proven experience with controlling complex processing circuits.
• Familiarity with Distributed Control Systems (DCS) and process simulation software.
• Strong understanding of metallurgical principles and process variables.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment, balancing on-site and remote responsibilities.
• Experience in a supervisory or mentoring role is advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, benchmarked against industry standards, along with comprehensive benefits. These include medical aid, a retirement fund, and paid leave. The hybrid work arrangement provides flexibility while ensuring essential on-site operational involvement. Opportunities for professional development and training in advanced process control technologies are available. You will work in a supportive team environment with a company that values operational excellence and employee growth. Join us and play a key role in optimizing our processing operations in the Northern Cape.