Job Purpose
The Metallurgical Engineer is responsible for optimizing metal extraction, refining, and quality control processes in mining and manufacturing operations. The role focuses on improving recovery rates, reducing costs, and ensuring product quality through applied metallurgical science and process engineering. Key Responsibilities
1. Process Optimization

• Design and optimize mineral processing circuits (crushing, grinding, flotation, leaching).
• Conduct metallurgical test work (batch, pilot plant, and full-scale trials).
• Improve recovery rates for PGMs, gold, copper, and other base metals.

2. Production Support

• Monitor plant performance metrics (grade, recovery, throughput).
• Troubleshoot process deviations (e.g., low concentrate grades, high tailings losses).
• Implement process control strategies (automated dosing, pH control).

3. Quality & Compliance

• Ensure final product specifications meet LME/SABS standards.
• Manage ISO 9001-certified quality systems for metal production.
• Conduct hazardous material assessments (arsenic, mercury, cyanide).

4. Research & Development

• Evaluate new extraction technologies (bioleaching, HPGR, sensor-based sorting).
• Optimize smelting & refining processes (furnace efficiency, slag chemistry).
• Support circular economy initiatives (metal recycling, waste valorization).

5. Project Management

• Lead plant debottlenecking and expansion projects.
• Supervise EPCM contractors for metallurgical plant upgrades.
• Prepare technical reports for stakeholders and investors.

Required Qualifications

• BEng/BSc in Metallurgical/Chemical/Materials Engineering.
• Professional Registration:
  • ECSA PrEng (mandatory for sign-off).
  • SAIMM Membership (advantageous).
• Certifications:
  • Six Sigma (for process optimization).
  • Advanced Mineral Processing (e.g., AMIRA P420).

Essential Skills & Competencies
Technical Skills

• Process Simulation:
  • METSIM, JKSimMet, Limn.
• Analytical Techniques:
  • SEM-EDS, XRD, ICP-OES for ore characterization.
• Specialized Knowledge:
  • Pyrometallurgy (furnace operations).
  • Hydrometallurgy (leaching, SX/EW).

Soft Skills

• Data-driven decision-making (statistical analysis with JMP/Minitab).
• Cross-functional collaboration with geologists and chemists.
• Technical report writing for feasibility studies.

Experience Requirements

• 5+ years in extractive metallurgy, including:
  • Precious metals
  • Base metals 
• Exposure To:
  • Comminution circuit optimization.
  • Tailings management