Senior Process Metallurgist - Platinum Group Metals

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance incentives

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Process Metallurgist for our Bloemfontein operations focused on Platinum Group Metals recovery. You will optimize flotation, leaching, smelting, and refining processes, drive trials and pilot studies, and deliver actionable data-driven improvements to boost recovery and efficiency.

The role demands 8+ years in PGM metallurgy, strong analytical skills, and a proactive approach to solving complex process challenges within a safety-conscious mining environment.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 8+ years in process metallurgy with PGM focus.
• Strong knowledge of PGM ore characteristics and mineralogy.
• Experience with flotation chemistry and circuit optimization.
• Familiarity with downstream smelting and refining is advantageous.
• Proficient in SPC and metallurgical software.
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and control metallurgical processes for PGM recovery.
• Conduct plant trials, lab analyses, and pilot studies to improve performance.
• Analyze data, identify trends, and implement corrective actions.
• Troubleshoot flotation, leaching, and refining circuits.
• Ensure strict quality control and product specifications.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and engineering teams.
• Stay updated on new PGM processing technologies.
• Mentor junior metallurgists and plant operators.

Skills

Metallurgy expertise

Process optimization

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Flotation chemistry

Quality control

Education

Master's in Metallurgy/Chemical Engineering

PhD in Metallurgy (advantage)

Tools

SPC software

Flotation circuit modelling tools

Laboratory instrumentation

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent leader in the extraction and processing of precious metals, is seeking an accomplished Senior Process Metallurgist to join their team in Bloemfontein, Free State. This vital role focuses on the optimization and control of complex metallurgical processes for Platinum Group Metals (PGM), ensuring high recovery rates and operational efficiency. You will be instrumental in troubleshooting process challenges, implementing innovative technological solutions, and maintaining rigorous quality control standards. The ideal candidate possesses extensive experience in PGM metallurgy, including flotation, smelting, and refining, coupled with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. This is an excellent opportunity to advance your career in a challenging and rewarding environment within a key mining region.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and control metallurgical processes for the recovery of Platinum Group Metals (PGM).
• Conduct plant trials, laboratory analysis, and pilot studies to improve process performance and recovery efficiency.
• Analyze metallurgical data, identify trends, and implement corrective actions to address deviations.
• Troubleshoot operational issues related to PGM flotation, leaching, and refining circuits.
• Ensure adherence to stringent quality control measures and product specifications.
• Collaborate with operations, maintenance, and engineering teams to ensure smooth plant operation.
• Stay abreast of new technologies and methodologies in PGM processing.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior metallurgists and plant operators.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations in Bloemfontein, Free State.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, metallurgical accounting, and process documentation.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of hands-on experience in process metallurgy, with a specific specialization in Platinum Group Metals (PGM).
• In-depth knowledge of PGM ore characteristics, mineralogy, and their impact on metallurgical processes.
• Proven experience with flotation chemistry, reagents, and circuit optimization.
• Familiarity with downstream processing such as smelting and refining is advantageous.
• Strong analytical skills with proficiency in statistical process control (SPC) and metallurgical software.
• Excellent problem-solving capabilities and a proactive approach to challenges.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
• Experience in the Bloemfontein, Free State mining context is preferred.
• Commitment to safety and environmental best practices.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience, along with performance-based incentives, comprehensive medical aid, and retirement fund benefits. This role is situated in Bloemfontein, Free State, providing a stable operational base. Opportunities for professional development, attending industry conferences, and career advancement within a leading PGM producer are integral to this position. The company fosters a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.