Senior Process Metallurgist - Platinum Group Metals

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Mahikeng, North West, seeks a Senior Process Metallurgist to optimize PGMs flotation, smelting, and refining. You will lead technical teams, analyse process performance, and implement improvements to maximise metal recovery and concentrate quality.

The role requires a strong background in PGM metallurgy, 8+ years in process metallurgy, and a master's or PhD. You will mentor staff, ensure SHE compliance, and collaborate with operations and R&D to drive technical excellence.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
• 8+ years in process metallurgy with strong focus on PGMs.
• Experience in flotation, smelting, and refining processes.
• Proficiency with metallurgical data analysis and reporting.

Responsibilities

• Oversee metallurgical processes for PGMs recovery and quality.
• Lead test work, audits, and data-driven improvement projects.
• Troubleshoot operations; diagnose root causes and implement fixes.
• Mentor junior metallurgists and ensure SHE standards.

Skills

PGM metallurgy

Process optimization

Data analysis

Team leadership

Problem solving

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering

Tools

METSIM

HSC Chemistry

Job description

About the Role Our client, a significant player in the Platinum Group Metals (PGM) sector, is seeking a highly qualified Senior Process Metallurgist to join their operational team in Mahikeng, North West . This role is crucial for optimizing the recovery processes of PGMs through flotation, smelting, and refining stages. You will be responsible for analyzing process performance, troubleshooting operational challenges, and implementing improvements to enhance metal recovery, product quality, and operational efficiency. The ideal candidate possesses deep knowledge of PGM metallurgy, extensive experience in process optimization, and a strong ability to lead and mentor technical teams. This is a key position within a major mining operation in the North West province, offering the chance to work with complex and valuable commodities.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and optimize metallurgical processes for the extraction and recovery of Platinum Group Metals (PGMs).
• Conduct detailed metallurgical test work, process audits, and data analysis to identify areas for improvement.
• Troubleshoot operational issues, diagnose root causes, and implement effective solutions to maximize PGM recovery and concentrate grades.
• Develop and implement process control strategies to ensure consistent plant performance and product quality.
• Collaborate with mine operations, geology, and R&D teams to ensure integrated asset management.
• Prepare comprehensive metallurgical reports, feasibility studies, and technical presentations.
• Mentor and guide junior metallurgists and technicians, fostering technical expertise.
• Ensure all metallurgical operations adhere to stringent safety, health, and environmental (SHE) standards.
• Stay abreast of new technologies and best practices in PGM metallurgy.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of metallurgical processes at the Mahikeng, North West facility.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in process metallurgy, with a strong focus on Platinum Group Metals.
• Demonstrated expertise in PGM flotation, smelting, and refining processes.
• Proven experience in process optimization, metallurgical accounting, and data analysis.
• Proficiency with metallurgical simulation software (e.g., METSIM, HSC Chemistry) is advantageous.
• Strong understanding of PGM mineralogy and its impact on processing.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience working in a production environment and managing technical teams.
• Knowledge of relevant SHE regulations in the South African mining industry.
• Willingness to work full-time and be based in Mahikeng, North West .

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and retirement fund contributions. This role provides significant opportunities for professional growth, skill development, and career advancement within a leading PGM mining company. The position in Mahikeng, North West offers the chance to work with advanced metallurgical technologies and contribute to the successful extraction of valuable resources.