Chief Engineer: Pyrometallurgy

Industry: Scientific, Research & Development

Job category: Research and Development

Location: Randburg

Contract: Permanent

Remuneration: Market Related

EE position: Yes

Introduction

Mintek has an exciting career opportunity for a Chief Engineer within the Pyrometallurgy Division to conduct cutting edge industrial and applied research in the design, development and demonstration of fit for purpose pyrometallurgical processes and technologies. Reporting to the Head of Technology Demonstration, the successful candidate will provide strategic leadership and specialist support in the development, demonstration and commercialisation of products and services developed by Mintek. Contributing to human capital development and willingness to work towards a common purpose, with a strong sense of equity and inclusion, are non-negotiable attributes of the role.

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS:

- Perform the total scope of work in the Division, including business development, fundamental and applied research, technology transfer and commercialisation.
- Provide strategic leadership in driving high impact RDI programmes, commercial projects, contract research and funding strategies to drive productivity and ensure the financial sustainability of the Division.
- Provide expert leadership in formulating and executing disciplinary and multi-disciplinary assignments that require integration of specialist knowledge and skills, and function as the key technical resource in the Division. This includes providing expert and specialist support in the planning, demonstration, and managing complex pilot scale demonstration projects.
- Actively taking part in international funding proposals to attract funding leading to the establishment and sustenance of world-class RDI infrastructure, research programmes, and human capital capacity at Mintek.
- Providing full administrative support to the Division, including managing and coordinating tender processes for CAPEX and large scale infrastructure projects.
- Contribute to human capital development, including providing postgraduate supervision where necessary.
- Contribute to the visibility and credibility of the Division through building and sustaining long-term collaborations and partnerships, both locally and globally.
- Provide disciplinary and multi-disciplinary assessment and guidance on strategic, governance and operational risks affecting the Division.

JOB KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE:

- Minimum 10 years’ experience in pyrometallurgy research and/or technology development.
- A strong understanding of pyrometallurgy and engineering design fundamentals non-negotiable.
- Demonstrable experience with designing and operating electric arc furnaces.
- Demonstrable experienced in managing complex technical projects, particularly from concept to market.
- A strong understanding of the global metals, minerals and energy industry is non-negotiable.
- Experience in designing pyrometallurgical processes using thermochemical software tools such as PyroSim and FactSage.
- Experience with coding in C and Python is an added advantage.
- Knowledge of technology development, technology transfer, IP management and commercialisation supported by demonstrable evidence of applied research and technological outputs is highly advantageous.
- A strong portfolio of publications in peer-reviewed ISI-rated journals .
- Knowledge or experience with SHEQ systems is non-negotiable.
- Demonstrated ability to attract investment or RDI funding is highly advantageous.

QUALIFICATIONS:

- A minimum PhD in Metallurgical/Chemical/Process Engineering, or equivalent, with a strong focus on pyrometallurgy research and/or technology development.
- Professional registration is an added advantage.
- Experience with postgraduate supervision is an added advantage

BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:

- Team player who enjoys variety and has a strong affinity for planning and executing new and high impact research.
- Passion for research, technology development, and technology transfer.
- Excellent interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work in a stressful and demanding environment
- Willing to travel locally and internationally
- Prepared to work shifts in hot and dusty plant environments when required
- Ability to independently engage with industry leaders, operators and high level international stakeholders.
- Excellent writing and presentation skills

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