Senior Process Controller - Mineral Processing Plant

Placements24; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Performance-based bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Process Controller for a state-of-the-art mineral processing plant in Sandton, Gauteng. You will manage the control room, monitor DCS/SCADA systems, and optimize throughput and recovery while maintaining product quality and safety standards.

The ideal candidate has a strong mineral processing background, exceptional analytical and leadership skills, and a track record of improving plant performance in fast-paced environments.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgy, Process Control or related field.
• 6+ years in process control operations in mineral processing or chemical plant.
• Proven experience with DCS and SCADA systems.

Responsibilities

• Oversee control room operations for mineral processing plant.
• Monitor key process parameters and adjust equipment in real time.
• Lead troubleshooting and root-cause analysis for process issues.
• Coordinate with shift supervisors, maintenance, and lab personnel.
• Ensure compliance with SHE procedures and production records.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Decision making under pressure

Data interpretation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

National Diploma or higher in process-related field

Tools

DCS

SCADA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the South African mining landscape, is looking for a highly skilled and experienced Senior Process Controller to manage operations at their state-of-the-art mineral processing plant in Sandton, Gauteng. This role is essential for ensuring the efficient and safe operation of the plant, optimizing mineral recovery, and maintaining high standards of product quality. You will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day activities of the control room, monitoring complex processing circuits (crushing, milling, flotation, leaching, etc.), and making critical real-time adjustments. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in mineral processing technologies and advanced process control systems, with a proven ability to lead and troubleshoot effectively in a fast-paced production environment. This is a key position offering significant responsibility and the opportunity to impact operational performance directly.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the operation of the mineral processing plant control room, ensuring efficient and safe processing of materials.
• Monitor key process parameters (e.g., throughput, recovery rates, reagent addition, densities, pressures, temperatures) using Distributed Control Systems (DCS) and SCADA.
• Make real-time adjustments to process equipment and reagent feeders to optimize performance and meet production targets.
• Diagnose and troubleshoot operational issues, identifying root causes and implementing immediate corrective actions.
• Analyze process data to identify trends, opportunities for improvement, and potential risks.
• Coordinate with shift supervisors, maintenance personnel, and laboratory technicians to ensure smooth operations and efficient problem resolution.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety, health, and environmental (SHE) procedures and regulations.
• Maintain accurate operational logs and production records.
• Train and mentor junior process controllers and operators, sharing expertise and best practices.
• Participate in process optimization initiatives and continuous improvement projects.

Requirements

• National Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgy, Process Control, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in process control operations within a mineral processing or chemical plant environment.
• Proven experience with DCS and SCADA systems is essential.
• Strong understanding of mineral processing circuits (e.g., comminution, beneficiation, hydrometallurgy).
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make sound decisions under pressure.
• Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation for process optimization.
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to effectively guide a team.
• Commitment to safety and environmental best practices.
• Experience in gold, platinum, or base metals processing is highly advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including medical aid, a provident fund, and potential for performance-based bonuses. Opportunities for advanced training in process control technologies and further professional development are provided. This role offers a challenging and rewarding career path within a leading mining organization. The position is based in the Sandton, Gauteng area, offering convenient access and a dynamic work environment. Join a dedicated team focused on operational excellence and technological innovation in mineral processing.