Senior Process Engineer - Mineral Processing

Placements24; Pietermaritzburg; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Pension fund

Performance bonuses

Relocation assistance

Professional development

Dynamic work environment

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Process Engineer for our client’s mining operations in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The role focuses on optimizing mineral processing plants through detailed analyses, bottleneck identification, and implementation of improvements to boost throughput, recovery, and product quality.

The ideal candidate holds a metallurgy/chemical engineering degree, with 6–8 years’ experience in mineral processing and proficiency in process simulation tools.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• 6-8 years of hands-on experience in mineral processing plant operations and optimization.
• Experience with process simulation software (Metso Outotec, HSC Chemistry, Aspen Plus).
• Strong understanding of metallurgical principles and unit operations for minerals.
• Proven ability to lead and implement process improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and optimize mineral processing circuits to improve performance.
• Develop and execute process improvement projects to increase recovery and reduce costs.
• Conduct feasibility studies and economic evaluations for process changes.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and implement timely solutions.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and technical teams to ensure plant reliability.
• Prepare technical reports and process design documents.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance.
• Stay updated on mineral processing innovations and safety standards.
• Participate in PHAs and risk assessments.

Skills

Process optimization

Project leadership

Analytical skills

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Metallurgical Engineering

Tools

Metso Outotec

HSC Chemistry

Aspen Plus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant contributor to the Mining industry, is seeking to appoint a highly skilled Senior Process Engineer to join their operations based in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA . This role is pivotal in optimizing and improving the efficiency of the company's mineral processing plants. The Senior Process Engineer will be responsible for conducting detailed process analyses, identifying bottlenecks, and implementing solutions to enhance throughput, recovery, and product quality. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in chemical or metallurgical engineering with extensive experience in mineral processing operations. We are looking for a proactive problem-solver with excellent analytical skills and the ability to lead improvement initiatives. This position offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to a major mining operation in the vibrant region of Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA .

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and optimize existing mineral processing circuits (e.g., comminution, flotation, leaching, thickening) to improve performance.
• Develop and execute process improvement projects, focusing on increasing recovery rates and reducing operating costs.
• Conduct feasibility studies and economic evaluations for process modifications and new technologies.
• Troubleshoot operational issues and implement effective solutions in a timely manner.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and technical teams to ensure seamless plant operation.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, process design documents, and operational guidelines.
• Mentor junior process engineers and provide technical guidance.
• Stay updated on the latest developments and innovations in mineral processing technology.
• Ensure all process modifications and operations comply with safety, health, and environmental regulations.
• Participate in process hazard analyses (PHAs) and risk assessments.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6-8 years of hands-on experience in mineral processing plant operations and optimization.
• Demonstrated expertise in process simulation software (e.g., Metso Outotec, HSC Chemistry, Aspen Plus).
• Strong understanding of metallurgical principles and unit operations relevant to the target minerals.
• Proven ability to lead and implement process improvement initiatives.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for cross-functional collaboration.
• Experience in the Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA area or similar industrial settings is advantageous.
• Knowledge of project management principles.

Benefits

• An attractive annual salary of ZAR, reflecting expertise and experience.
• Comprehensive medical aid and pension fund contributions.
• Performance-related bonuses and opportunities for professional growth.
• Relocation assistance package available for the successful candidate.
• Access to advanced process technologies and continuous professional development programs.
• A dynamic and supportive work environment within a reputable mining company.