Senior Process Engineer - Mineral Beneficiation

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid and pension fund benefits

Performance-related bonuses

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Process Engineer based in Kimberley, Northern Cape, to optimize mineral beneficiation circuits and improve recovery, grade, and energy efficiency. You will design processes, troubleshoot, lead improvements, and collaborate with operations, maintenance, and R&D teams on challenging diamond-related beneficiation projects.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor's in Chemical or Metallurgical Engineering, 7+ years in mineral processing, and hands-on experience with

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering or Metallurgical Engineering.
• 7+ years of experience in process engineering within mineral processing/mining.
• Expertise in mineral beneficiation techniques, diamond-related processing is an asset.
• Strong knowledge of comminution and separation technologies (DMS, jigs, screens).
• Experience with process simulation software (METSIM, HSC Chemistry) and data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and optimize mineral processing circuits to improve recovery and grade.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and implement effective solutions.
• Conduct pilot plant trials and feasibility studies for process modifications and new technologies.
• Develop PFDs and P&IDs for new designs.
• Collaborate with operators, maintenance, and R&D teams for safe, efficient operation.
• Monitor KPIs and drive continuous improvement.
• Prepare technical reports and capital expenditure justifications.
• Provide mentorship to junior engineers and technicians.

Skills

Mineral beneficiation

Process simulation

Data analysis

Troubleshooting

Cross-functional collaboration

Project management (nice-to-have)

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Metallurgical Engineering (advantage)

Tools

METSIM

HSC Chemistry

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly skilled Senior Process Engineer to focus on mineral beneficiation processes for their operations based in Kimberley, Northern Cape . This role is central to optimizing the efficiency, recovery, and quality of valuable minerals extracted from ore. You will be involved in process design, troubleshooting, continuous improvement initiatives, and the implementation of new technologies within the beneficiation plant. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in mineral processing unit operations, excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, and the ability to work collaboratively with plant operations, maintenance, and R&D teams. This is a significant opportunity to contribute to a key mining region known for its diamond resources and industrial heritage.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and optimize existing mineral processing circuits (e.g., crushing, screening, dense media separation, DMS, XRT sorting) to improve performance.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and implement effective solutions to enhance recovery and grade.
• Conduct pilot plant trials and feasibility studies for process modifications and new technologies.
• Develop process design criteria, PFDs (Process Flow Diagrams), and P&IDs (Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams).
• Collaborate with plant operators and maintenance teams to ensure efficient and safe operation of equipment.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement strategies for continuous improvement.
• Stay current with advancements in mineral processing technology and best practices.
• Prepare technical reports, process documentation, and capital expenditure justifications.
• Provide technical support and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians.
• Ensure adherence to safety, health, and environmental standards in all process-related activities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in process engineering within the mineral processing or mining industry.
• Demonstrated expertise in mineral beneficiation techniques, particularly those relevant to diamonds or other hard-to-recover minerals.
• Strong understanding of comminution, separation technologies (e.g., DMS, jigs, screens), and solid-liquid separation.
• Proficiency with process simulation software (e.g., METSIM, HSC Chemistry) and data analysis tools.
• Excellent analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Experience in project management or leading small technical projects is a plus.
• Knowledge of safety and environmental regulations applicable to mining operations.
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng.) or eligibility is an advantage.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive medical aid and pension fund benefits, performance-related bonuses, and excellent opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

This role offers a chance to work on challenging beneficiation projects in a historically significant mining area near Kimberley, Northern Cape .