Senior Process Engineer - Mining Chemicals

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Medical coverage

Retirement savings plan

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Process Engineer for its Rustenburg facility to develop, optimize, and scale up chemical processes used in mineral extraction and processing. The role requires a strong chemical engineering background, hands-on process design and troubleshooting, and a keen understanding of mining chemicals, with focus on safety, efficiency and environmental responsibility.

You will work with cross‑functional teams to deliver safe, reliable production and contribute to continuous

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering required.
• Minimum 7 years in chemical process engineering, with mining or specialty chemicals.
• Experience with PFDs/P&IDs and equipment specification.
• Proficient in process simulation software (Aspen HYSYS, Chemcad).
• Familiar with PSM and process safety.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving, with good communication.
• Ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize chemical processes for flotation reagents and mining chemicals.
• Conduct process simulations, mass and energy balances, equipment sizing.
• Oversee pilot plant operations and scale-up to production.
• Troubleshoot issues, identify root causes, implement corrective actions.
• Develop process improvements to reduce costs and waste, enhance safety.
• Collaborate with R&D on new product development and validation.
• Ensure compliance with EHS regulations.
• Prepare technical reports and process documentation.
• Provide technical support to production and other departments.

Skills

Process design

PFDs/P&IDs

Equipment spec

Process simulation

PSM principles

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Mining industry

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

Aspen HYSYS

Chemcad

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major supplier of specialty chemicals to the mining sector, is seeking a Senior Process Engineer for their facility in Rustenburg, North West. This pivotal role will focus on the development, optimization, and scale-up of chemical processes used in mineral extraction and processing. You will be responsible for ensuring efficient, safe, and environmentally sound production of high-quality mining chemicals. The ideal candidate will possess strong chemical engineering fundamentals, hands‑on experience in process design and troubleshooting, and a keen understanding of the unique challenges within the mining chemical industry. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the efficiency and sustainability of South Africa's vital mining operations. We are looking for a proactive problem‑solver with a strong commitment to technical excellence and operational improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize chemical processes for the production of flotation reagents, flocculants, and other mining chemicals.
• Conduct process simulations, mass and energy balances, and equipment sizing for new and existing processes.
• Oversee pilot plant operations and support the scale‑up of processes to commercial production.
• Troubleshoot operational issues, identify root causes, and implement corrective actions to improve efficiency and product quality.
• Develop and implement process improvements to reduce costs, minimize waste, and enhance safety.
• Collaborate with the R&D department on new product development and process validation.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant environmental, health, and safety (EHS) regulations.
• Prepare technical reports, operating procedures, and process documentation.
• Provide technical support to the production team and other departments as required.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in chemical process engineering, with a significant portion focused on specialty chemicals or the mining industry.
• Proven experience in process design, PFDs/P&IDs development, and equipment specification.
• Strong understanding of chemical reaction engineering, separation processes, and fluid dynamics.
• Experience with process simulation software (e.g., Aspen HYSYS, Chemcad) is essential.
• Familiarity with process safety management (PSM) principles.
• Excellent analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.
• Experience in mineral processing or hydrometallurgy is a significant advantage.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience, performance bonuses, comprehensive medical coverage, and a robust retirement savings plan.
• Excellent opportunities for professional growth and development are provided, including exposure to diverse mining operations.
• The role is based in Rustenburg, a key hub for the mining industry.
• This is an exciting chance to make a significant impact in a challenging and rewarding sector.