Senior Process Engineer - Chemical Extraction

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Performance bonuses

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Process Engineer specialized in chemical extraction to optimize hydrometallurgical operations in Vereeniging, Gauteng. You will lead design, development and implementation of process improvements, working with plant operations and R&D to enhance leaching, SX and EW performance.

The ideal candidate has 6+ years' mining/chemical processing experience, strong simulation software skills, and a proven track record in safety and project leadership.

Qualifications

• BEng or MSc in Chemical Engineering or Metallurgical Engineering.
• 6+ years of relevant experience in process engineering in mining or chemical processing.
• Strong expertise in hydrometallurgical processes (leaching, SX, EW).
• Proficiency with process simulation software (HSC Chemistry, METSIM, Aspen Plus).
• Experience with process control systems and data analysis tools.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for team work.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Commitment to safety and environmental best practices.

Responsibilities

• Optimize and troubleshoot chemical extraction processes (leaching, solvent extraction, electrowinning).
• Develop and implement process improvements to boost efficiency, recovery and product quality.
• Conduct pilot plant trials and scale-up studies for new or modified processes.
• Analyze process data using statistical methods and process simulation tools to identify improvements.
• Collaborate with plant operators, metallurgists and R&D to implement best practices.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, process flow diagrams and P&IDs.
• Ensure compliance with safety, health and environmental regulations.
• Provide technical support and training to junior engineers and plant staff.
• Participate in PHAs and HAZOP studies.

Skills

Hydrometallurgy

Leaching

Solvent extraction

Electrowinning

Data analysis

Statistics

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Multi-project management

Safety focus

Education

BEng or MSc in Chemical/Metallurgical Eng.

Tools

HSC Chemistry

METSIM

Aspen Plus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a diversified mining group, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Process Engineer specializing in chemical extraction to join their operations in Vereeniging, Gauteng. This role is central to optimizing and troubleshooting our hydrometallurgical processes, ensuring maximum efficiency and product quality. The successful candidate will be involved in process design, development, and implementation, working closely with plant operations and R&D teams. We are looking for an individual with a strong chemical engineering background, extensive experience in mineral processing, particularly in leaching and solvent extraction, and a passion for innovation and problem-solving. This position offers a stimulating environment with opportunities to contribute to critical process improvements.

Key Responsibilities

• Optimize and troubleshoot chemical extraction processes, including leaching, solvent extraction, and electrowinning.
• Develop and implement process improvements to increase efficiency, recovery, and product quality.
• Conduct pilot plant trials and scale-up studies for new or modified processes.
• Analyze process data using statistical methods and process simulation software to identify areas for improvement.
• Collaborate with plant operators, metallurgists, and R&D personnel to implement best practices.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, process flow diagrams, and P&IDs.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, health, and environmental regulations relevant to chemical processes.
• Provide technical support and training to junior engineers and plant staff.
• Participate in process hazard analyses (PHAs) and HAZOP studies.

Requirements

• BEng or MSc in Chemical Engineering or Metallurgical Engineering.
• A minimum of 6 years of relevant experience in process engineering within the mining or chemical processing industry.
• Strong expertise in hydrometallurgical processes, specifically leaching, SX, and EW.
• Proficiency in process simulation software (e.g., HSC Chemistry, METSIM, Aspen Plus).
• Experience with process control systems and data analysis tools.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a team.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Commitment to safety and environmental best practices.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Medical aid.
• Retirement fund contributions.
• Performance bonuses.
• This hybrid role allows for a balance of on-site operational involvement in Vereeniging, Gauteng, and remote data analysis and reporting.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development are a key focus, with support for continued learning and advancement within the company.

Join a forward-thinking team dedicated to operational excellence in chemical extraction.