Senior Process Metallurgist

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid and retirement fund

Professional development

Relocation assistance

Exposure to diverse processes

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Senior Process Metallurgist for a hybrid role in Mahikeng, North West. You will optimize mineral processing circuits, drive recovery improvements, and reduce costs while coordinating design and commissioning of new facilities.

You will lead process improvements, mentor junior staff, and ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards, contributing to sustainable mining operations in the region.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related field.

Responsibilities

• Optimize and troubleshoot metallurgical processes to improve recovery and plant performance.
• Lead process improvements and implement control strategies for stable operation.
• Conduct lab and pilot plant tests to evaluate new technologies.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance and engineering to meet production targets.
• Mentor junior metallurgists and technicians.
• Contribute to design and commissioning of new facilities.
• Monitor KPIs and prepare regular performance reports.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental regulations.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Communication

Project management

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Metallurgical/Chemical Eng

Professional Engineer registration desirable

Tools

METSIM

HSC

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading name in the Mining and minerals processing sector, is actively seeking a highly competent Senior Process Metallurgist. This role, based in Mahikeng, North West, ZA, involves a hybrid work arrangement, enabling strategic planning and analysis from a remote setting combined with essential on-site operational involvement. You will be responsible for optimizing mineral processing circuits to enhance recovery, improve efficiency, and reduce operational costs. This includes troubleshooting plant operations, implementing process improvements, and contributing to the design and commissioning of new metallurgical facilities. The ideal candidate will possess a robust understanding of mineral processing technologies, strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and proven experience in plant operations. This is a significant opportunity to drive innovation and operational excellence within a respected organization, contributing to the sustainable development of the mining industry in the North West province. We are committed to fostering a culture of continuous improvement and providing our team with opportunities for professional growth and development.

Key Responsibilities

• Optimize existing metallurgical processes (e.g., comminution, flotation, leaching) to improve metal recovery and plant performance.
• Troubleshoot operational issues, identify root causes, and implement effective solutions.
• Conduct laboratory and pilot plant test work to evaluate process improvements and new technologies.
• Develop and implement process control strategies to ensure stable and efficient operation.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and generate regular performance reports.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and engineering teams to achieve production and cost targets.
• Ensure adherence to all health, safety, and environmental regulations within the metallurgical plant.
• Contribute to the design and commissioning of new process equipment and plant modifications.
• Mentor and support junior metallurgists and technicians.
• Stay current with metallurgical advancements and industry best practices.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in process metallurgy, with a strong focus on the mining industry.
• Proven experience in operating and optimizing mineral processing plants.
• In-depth knowledge of various mineral processing techniques and equipment.
• Proficiency in metallurgical simulation software (e.g., METSIM, HSC) and data analysis tools.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in cross-functional teams.
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects and lead technical initiatives.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng.) registration or eligibility is desirable.
• Must be able to work in a hybrid capacity, balancing remote tasks with on-site duties in Mahikeng, North West.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
• Exposure to diverse and challenging metallurgical processes.
• A supportive work environment within a leading mining organization in the North West province.
• Relocation assistance may be offered.