Senior Process Metallurgist

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Comprehensive medical aid

Provident fund

Performance-based incentives

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Process Metallurgist to optimize recovery and quality in mineral processing at its Richards Bay operations in KwaZulu-Natal. You will lead metallurgical projects, mentor juniors, and collaborate with R&D and operations teams.

The ideal candidate has a strong theory-backed, hands-on background, 7+ years in process metallurgy, and proficiency in MetSim or JKSimFloat, with a track record of improving efficiency, yield, and safety compliance in mining plants.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in process metallurgy, with a focus on mineral processing plants.
• Experience with metallurgical unit operations and process optimization.
• Proficiency in modelling/simulation tools such as MetSim or JKSimFloat.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot metallurgical processes for mineral recovery, including comminution, flotation, leaching, and refining.
• Conduct laboratory and pilot-scale test work to evaluate new process technologies and improvements.
• Analyze plant performance data, identify areas for improvement, and implement corrective actions.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, process flowsheets, and equipment specifications.
• Provide expert metallurgical advice to plant operations, engineering, and management teams.
• Ensure metallurgical processes comply with safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Lead or participate in process improvement projects, focusing on efficiency, cost reduction, and yield enhancement.
• Mentor and train junior metallurgists and technicians.
• Collaborate with R&D departments on new technology development and implementation.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in metallurgy and mineral processing.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication & report-writing

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Tools

MetSim

JKSimFloat

Job description

About the Role Our client, a major force in the mining and minerals processing sector, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Process Metallurgist to join their operations in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA . This role is crucial for optimizing the recovery and quality of valuable minerals through innovative and efficient metallurgical processes. The ideal candidate will possess a strong theoretical background combined with practical experience in plant operations and process development. This position offers an excellent opportunity to contribute to significant projects, drive process improvements, and mentor junior members of the metallurgical team, all within a supportive and growth-oriented environment at a key industrial hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot metallurgical processes for mineral recovery, including comminution, flotation, leaching, and refining.
• Conduct laboratory and pilot-scale test work to evaluate new process technologies and improvements.
• Analyze plant performance data, identify areas for improvement, and implement corrective actions.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, process flowsheets, and equipment specifications.
• Provide expert metallurgical advice to plant operations, engineering, and management teams.
• Ensure metallurgical processes comply with safety, environmental, and quality standards.
• Lead or participate in process improvement projects, focusing on efficiency, cost reduction, and yield enhancement.
• Mentor and train junior metallurgists and technicians.
• Collaborate with R&D departments on new technology development and implementation.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in metallurgy and mineral processing.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in process metallurgy, with a strong focus on mineral processing plants.
• Proven experience with common metallurgical unit operations and their optimization.
• Proficiency in metallurgical modelling and simulation software (e.g., MetSim, JKSimFloat).
• Strong analytical skills and ability to interpret complex data sets.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and a practical, hands-on approach.
• Effective communication and report-writing skills.
• Experience in the specific commodities relevant to the client's operations is advantageous.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and contribute to a collaborative culture.
• Understanding of safety protocols and environmental regulations in the mining industry.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive medical aid, a provident fund, and performance-based incentives.
• Opportunities for professional development, further training, and career progression are readily available.
• The company fosters a positive and inclusive work environment, prioritizing employee well-being and innovation.
• This role is based in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA , offering a chance to contribute to significant advancements in mineral processing within a leading organization.