Senior Process Controller - Mineral Processing

Placements24; Soweto; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Training & progression

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Process Controller for a mineral processing plant in Soweto, Gauteng. The role focuses on day-to-day control, optimization of circuits, and ensuring stable operation to maximize metal recovery.

Ideal candidates have 5+ years in mineral processing, experience with DCS/SCADA, and strong analytical skills. Willingness to work shifts and contribute to safety and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor or diploma in a related field.
• 5+ years in mineral processing plant operations.
• Experience with DCS/SCADA systems.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Good communication and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and control metallurgical processing circuits to optimize performance.
• Analyze plant data to identify deviations and take corrective action.
• Operate process control systems (DCS/SCADA) and adjust setpoints.
• Perform routine sampling and quality checks.
• Troubleshoot upsets and coordinate with maintenance and engineering.
• Implement improvements to enhance recovery and reduce costs.
• Maintain accurate logs of operations and quality data.
• Adhere to safety and environmental procedures.
• Assist in training junior operators and participate in handovers.

Skills

Process control

Data analysis

Troubleshooting

Teamwork

Safety compliance

Education

Metallurgy / Mineral Processing degree

Tools

DCS

SCADA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant contributor to the mining sector, is seeking an experienced Senior Process Controller to join their mineral processing plant operations in Soweto, Gauteng . This role is vital for the day-to-day management and optimization of processing circuits, ensuring efficient and stable operation to maximize metal recovery. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of metallurgical processes, control systems, and analytical techniques used in mineral processing. You will play a key role in monitoring plant performance, troubleshooting issues, and implementing control strategies to achieve production targets. This position offers a hands‑on opportunity to contribute directly to operational success.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and control metallurgical processing circuits (e.g., crushing, grinding, flotation, leaching) to achieve optimal performance.
• Analyze plant data and process variables to identify deviations and implement corrective actions.
• Operate and adjust process control systems, including DCS and SCADA interfaces.
• Perform routine sampling and quality control checks to ensure product specifications are met.
• Troubleshoot process upsets and equipment malfunctions, collaborating with maintenance and engineering teams.
• Implement process improvements to enhance recovery, reduce costs, and improve safety.
• Maintain accurate logs and records of plant operations, performance, and quality data.
• Ensure adherence to all safety, health, and environmental procedures within the processing plant.
• Assist in training junior operators and technicians on process operations and safety protocols.
• Participate in shift handovers and operational meetings.

Requirements

• A National Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, Mineral Processing, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in mineral processing plant operations, with a focus on process control.
• Proven experience in monitoring and controlling complex metallurgical circuits.
• Familiarity with Distributed Control Systems (DCS) and SCADA systems.
• Strong understanding of metallurgical principles relevant to the plant's commodities.
• Good analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to interpret process data and make informed operational decisions.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Understanding of safety and environmental regulations in a mining context.
• Willingness to work shifts as required.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid coverage, and a retirement fund. Opportunities for specialized training and career progression within the mineral processing field are provided. This role is based in Soweto, Gauteng , offering accessibility and a chance to contribute to local industry. Our client is dedicated to providing a safe, supportive, and challenging work environment where employees can develop their skills and advance their careers within a well-established mining organization.