Senior Process Metallurgist - Gold Extraction

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Bonuses and incentives

Medical aid and retirement fund

Professional development opportunities

Relocation assistance for Klerksdorp

Dynamic supportive work environment

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Process Metallurgist to optimize gold processing circuits and maximize recovery near Klerksdorp, North West. Lead a metallurgical team, troubleshoot plant issues, and implement improvements across crushing, grinding, leaching, and refining stages.

You will drive data-driven decisions, mentor technicians, and ensure safe, compliant operations in a high-demand mining environment with a focus on efficiency and product quality.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 6 years of hands-on experience in gold processing operations.
• Proven expertise in gold leaching, adsorption, elution, and refining (CIL, CIP).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven approach.
• Experience with process control and automation in a metallurgical plant.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and optimize the performance of the gold processing plant, ensuring efficient extraction.
• Conduct detailed metallurgical test work and analysis to identify areas for process improvement.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve gold recovery rates and reduce operating costs.
• Troubleshoot complex operational problems and provide timely solutions.
• Manage the metallurgical laboratory, ensuring accurate data generation.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and geology teams to ensure integrated plant performance.
• Mentor and develop junior metallurgists and technicians.
• Ensure adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Prepare comprehensive metallurgical reports and recommendations.
• Stay current with advancements in gold processing technology.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Leadership

Communication

Education

Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering degree

Tools

Metallurgical simulation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading gold producer with significant operations in the North West province, is seeking an experienced Senior Process Metallurgist to enhance their gold extraction operations near Klerksdorp . This vital role focuses on optimizing metallurgical processes to maximize gold recovery, improve operational efficiency, and ensure product quality. You will be instrumental in troubleshooting plant issues, implementing process improvements, and guiding the metallurgical team. The position requires a deep understanding of gold processing circuits, including crushing, grinding, leaching, and refining. We are committed to fostering a safe and sustainable mining environment, driven by innovation and operational excellence. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned metallurgist to make a significant impact within a highly reputable organization. Your contributions will directly influence the economic performance and technological advancement of our gold mining operations in Klerksdorp .

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and optimize the performance of the gold processing plant, ensuring efficient and effective extraction.
• Conduct detailed metallurgical test work and analysis to identify areas for process improvement.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve gold recovery rates and reduce operating costs.
• Troubleshoot complex operational problems and provide timely, effective solutions.
• Manage the metallurgical laboratory, ensuring accurate and reliable data generation.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and geology teams to ensure integrated plant performance.
• Mentor and develop junior metallurgists and technicians.
• Ensure strict adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Prepare comprehensive metallurgical reports, including performance analysis and recommendations.
• Stay current with advancements in gold processing technology and best practices.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 6 years of hands-on experience in gold processing operations.
• Proven expertise in gold leaching, adsorption, elution, and refining processes (e.g., CIL, CIP).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a data-driven approach.
• Proficiency in metallurgical simulation and modeling software is advantageous.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with process control and automation in a metallurgical plant.
• Ability to work effectively in a demanding operational environment.
• Commitment to safety and environmental best practices.
• Must be willing to work on-site near Klerksdorp and possess valid work authorization for South Africa.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package based on experience and qualifications.
• Performance-related bonuses and incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund provisions.
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
• Relocation assistance for candidates relocating to the Klerksdorp area.
• A dynamic and supportive work environment within a leading mining company.