Senior Metallurgist

At First Quantum, we free the talent of our people by taking a very different approach which is underpinned by a very different, very definite culture – the “First Quantum Way”.

 

Working with us is not like working anywhere else, which is why we recruit people who will take a bolder, smarter approach to spot opportunities, solve problems and deliver results.

 

Our culture is all about encouraging you to think independently and to challenge convention to deliver the best result. That’s how we continue to achieve extraordinary things in extraordinary locations.

 

Job description:

Purpose

 

 

The Senior Metallurgist is responsible for providing technical leadership and expertise to optimize metallurgical processes and maximize gold recovery. This role involves overseeing plant performance, conducting metallurgical test work, analyzing data, and recommending improvements to ensure the gold plant operates efficiently, safely, and cost-effectively.

Key Responsibilities

Metallurgical Process Optimization

• Monitor and evaluate metallurgical performance metrics, including recovery, grade, and throughput, to identify areas for improvement.
• Develop and implement process changes and improvements to optimize gold recovery and minimize operating costs.
• Conduct metallurgical test work on ore samples to assess processing characteristics and recommend adjustments to plant operations.
• Work with the operational team to troubleshoot and resolve process-related issues in real time.

Production Support

• Provide metallurgical support to the operations team, ensuring alignment with production targets.
• Ensure proper calibration and functionality of process control equipment.
• Collaborate with maintenance teams to improve equipment performance and minimize downtime.

Data Analysis and Reporting

• Analyze plant performance data and generate detailed technical reports for management.
• Maintain accurate records of metallurgical tests, plant data, and operational changes.
• Develop and maintain metallurgical accounting systems to track gold production and losses.

Safety, Health, Environment, and Quality (SHEQ)

• Ensure compliance with all SHEQ policies, procedures, and regulations during metallurgical operations.
• Promote a safety-focused culture by identifying risks and implementing mitigation measures.
• Monitor and ensure the safe handling and disposal of hazardous materials used in metallurgical processes.

Research and Development

• Identify and evaluate new technologies or practices to improve plant performance and sustainability.
• Stay updated on industry trends, advancements in gold processing techniques, and emerging metallurgical technologies.

Training and Mentorship

• Provide training and mentorship to junior metallurgists and plant personnel to enhance their technical skills and knowledge.
• Foster a culture of learning and continuous improvement within the metallurgical team.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 School Certificate
• Bachelor’s degree in Metallurgy, Mineral Processing, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• A member of Engineering Institution of Zambia

Experience

 

• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in gold processing, including roles focused on metallurgy.
• Past experience in a process plant operation (added advantage)
• Strong understanding of gold extraction processes such as comminution, gravity concentration, flotation, leaching, and cyanidation.
• Proficiency in metallurgical data analysis and software tools.
• Experience with metallurgical test work and lab management.