Technical Specialist Chemistry

De Beers Group of Companies; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading producer of platinum group metals is seeking an analytical chemistry expert in Johannesburg. You will provide technical support and implement solutions that enhance laboratory operations within strict safety guidelines. The ideal candidate has a BSc (Hons) in Chemistry and 5 years of laboratory experience, including proficiency in ICP and related instruments. Join our commitment to sustainability and excellence in a diverse workplace. This role entails regular travel to various sites across South Africa and Zimbabwe.

Benefits

Market-aligned reward and recognition

Opportunities for learning and development

A culture that respects diversity

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years post-qualification laboratory experience with 3 years in the PGM/BM industry.
• Proficient in analytical instruments and methods.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical support to Valterra Platinum sites.
• Deliver technical guidance and recommend improvements in methods.

Skills

Analytical chemistry expertise

Effective communication

Project management skills

Education

BSc (Hons) in Chemistry or related Discipline

Tools

ICP

ICP-MS

X-Ray

AA

LECO

UV-VIS

SG instruments

Job description

Overview

Company Description - Valterra Platinum, formerly Anglo American Platinum, is a leading primary producer of platinum group metals (PGMs), with integrated mining, smelting, and refining operations in South Africa and Zimbabwe, marketing the metal we produce globally. Following our demerger from Anglo American plc, Valterra Platinum is now an independent, publicly listed company with a primary and secondary listing on the Johannesburg and London stock exchanges respectively.

As we embark on this exciting new chapter, Valterra Platinum is positioned to define and pursue its own strategy, anchored in operational excellence, sustainability, and value creation for the long-term. With full accountability for our performance and growth, we are focused on strengthening our capabilities across the entire PGM value chain, from mine to market.

Our independence empowers us to deepen our commitment to stakeholders and lead with purpose – to Unearth Value to Better Our World. We remain steadfast in our ambition to be the world’s foremost producer of platinum group metals, while embedding safety and sustainability in everything we do.

If you\'re driven by purpose and the opportunity to make a lasting impact, we invite you to join us. Apply today and be part of something bigger.

This role is based at 144 Oxford Road, Melrose.

The role will require regular travel and work at the Valterra site laboratories located in Polokwane, Rustenburg and Zimbabwe.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical support to Valterra Platinum sites by implementing advanced analytical solutions that improve quality, turnaround times, and processing costs. The role focuses on applying expertise in analytical chemistry to optimise laboratory operations and support continuous improvement initiatives.

1. Safety

• Create a safety culture through productive and authorized operational systems/processes that allow all employees (including contracting partners) to provide their outputs in a risk-controlled environment. Oversee consistent application of Safety & Health principles in all discipline interactions and take personal responsibility for safety of self and others to ensure zero harm and elimination of fatalities.

2. Performance and Delivery

• Deliver technical support to Valterra Platinum laboratories to optimise and enhance operational efficiency.
• Provide specialist analytical guidance to sites and recommend improvements in methods and instrumentation.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies in Analytical Chemistry and advise on their application.
• Investigate and recommend preferred analytical techniques and equipment to improve accuracy and cost-effectiveness.
• Execute technical projects within defined timelines and budgets.
• Drive continuous improvement through optimisation of analytical processes and techniques.
• Contribute to the development of training content for laboratory personnel.
• Monitor project progress and ensure effective implementation.

Execute

• Assist with commissioning and optimisation of laboratory instruments.
• Provide technical advice on analytical methods and equipment selection.
• Support research and development of alternative analytical methods to improve efficiency.
• Identify and initiate projects that enhance operational performance.
• Compile accurate technical reports and provide ad-hoc reporting as required.
• Establish procedures for non-standard work requirements and ensure compliance with best practices.

3. People & Teams

• Promote a high-performance, purpose-driven culture aligned with company values, fostering inclusivity, diversity, and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams to support operational objectives.
• Build relationships with research institutions to identify opportunities for innovation and improvement.
• Develop strong, trust-based partnerships with internal and external stakeholders, including service providers and clients.

4. Compliance

• Ensure compliance with internal and external regulatory, legislative and permitting requirements.
• Support GEMA audits and contribute to standardization efforts across laboratories.

Qualifications

• BSc (Hons) in Chemistry or related Discipline

Experience

• Minimum 5 years post-qualification laboratory experience, with at least 3 years in the PGM/BM industry.
• Exposure to project-based work and technical problem-solving in an analytical environment.
• Proficient in ICP, ICP-MS, X-Ray, AA, LECO, UV-VIS, and SG instruments and their applications.
• Knowledge of 4E lead collection gravimetric and Nickel Sulphide fire assay methods.
• Ability to research, develop, and implement new technologies and analytical methods.
• Skilled in analytical optimisation and evaluation of standards and procedures.
• Competent in interpreting benchmarks, identifying performance gaps, and developing targeted improvement plans.
• Strong organisational and planning skills with the ability to manage multiple technical tasks.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills to influence and support stakeholders.

Additional Information

• What We Offer

At Valterra Platinum, you will join a team committed to excellence and impact.

We offer:

• Meaningful work in a high-performance, values-led environment.
• Market-aligned reward and recognition.
• Opportunities for learning, development and progression.
• A culture that respects diversity and encourages innovation.
• A clear commitment to safe Operations.

Inclusion and Diversity

Valterra Platinum is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to promoting an inclusive and diverse workplace where we value and respect every colleague for who they are and provide equality of opportunity so that everyone can fulfill their potential. Valterra Platinum has a zero tolerance to dignity harms, these include all acts of gender based violence, bullying, harassment and victimisation. Ensuring the safety of our employees extends beyond physical safety and includes the eradication of harmful behaviours from our workplace. This responsibility extends to everyone at Valterra Platinum both during work hours and outside of work. We are unconditional in creating a respectful, inclusive, and safe working environment to ensure that no colleague will be violated or harassed under our watch.

How to Apply

To apply for this role, please complete our online application form via this job advert.

Closing Date

26 January 2026

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