Applications Engineer at Metso

• We are seeking an Applications Engineer to join our Pumps Team. The successful candidate will be responsible providing technical and application support for Pumps, Cyclones, Valves, and Hoses within mining and mineral processing operations.
• The role focuses on equipment selection, performance optimization, competitor replacement opportunities, field trials, and delivering technically sound solutions that improve customer operational performance and lifecycle cost efficiency.
• The Applications Engineer works closely with the Trials and Replacements Manager to identify conversion opportunities, execute product trials, and support business growth through technical engagement and customer relationship development.
• In this position, you will report to the Trials and Replacements Manager – Pumps, Cyclones, Valves & Hoses.
• This position is mainly located in Centurion, Gauteng.

TEAM YOU’LL BELONG TO

• You will join the Engineering Team and work closely with internal and external stakeholders, such as Sales & Accounts Managers, Technical Sales Support Teams, Engineering Teams and Service & Operations Teams.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

Technical Application Support

• Provide technical support for slurry pumps, hydro-cyclones, valves, and hoses across mining and mineral processing applications
• Conduct equipment sizing, selection, and application evaluations based on process and operational data
• Review customer process conditions and recommend optimized equipment solutions
• Support troubleshooting and root cause analysis for equipment performance issues

Trials & Competitor Replacement Projects

• Identify and support competitor replacement opportunities in existing operations
• Assist in planning, executing, and monitoring field trials for pumps, cyclones, valves, and hoses
• Collect, analyse, and interpret trial performance data and prepare technical reports
• Demonstrate performance improvements related to wear life, efficiency, throughput, reliability, and total cost of ownership
• Work with customers to minimize operational risks during replacement or trial implementation

Customer Engagement & Technical Sales Support

• Provide technical support during customer meetings, site visits, and presentations
• Support sales teams with technical proposals, equipment recommendations, and value propositions
• Assist in preparing tender responses and technical submissions
• Build strong technical relationships with plant personnel, engineers, and decision-makers

Site Inspections & Performance Optimization

• Conduct plant audits, inspections, and condition assessments
• Evaluate equipment wear patterns, operational conditions, and maintenance practices
• Recommend optimization opportunities to improve process efficiency and equipment reliability
• Support customers with operational best practices and product training

Engineering & Documentation

• Prepare technical reports, sizing calculations, application recommendations, and performance analyses
• Maintain accurate records of site activities, trials, and replacement opportunities
• Support the development of case studies and technical reference material
• Ensure compliance with engineering standards and company procedures

Cross Functional Collaboration

• Collaborate with engineering, product management, service, and operations teams
• Provide field feedback to support continuous product improvement and innovation
• Support inventory and parts planning discussions related to trials and installed equipment

WHO YOU ARE

• Matric (Grade 12)
• Bachelor’s Degree or National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering or any related Engineering Discipline
• Additional training in slurry pumping, mineral processing, or fluid handling systems is advantageous

Minimum 3–7 years’ experience in:

• Mining or mineral processing operations
• Slurry pumps, cyclones, valves, or hose applications
• Technical sales or applications engineering
• Process plant operations or maintenance support

Experience in:

• Grinding and classification circuits
• Slurry transport systems
• Field troubleshooting and plant optimization
• Competitor replacement projects or equipment trials
• Knowledge of mineral processing circuits and slurry handling systems

Understanding of:

• Centrifugal slurry pumps
• Hydrocyclone operation and classification principles
• Industrial valves and hose systems
• Wear mechanisms and material selection
• Pump and process performance calculations

Knowledge of:

• Mining plant operations and maintenance practices
• Technical report writing and engineering documentation
• Health, safety, and mining regulations

WHAT SKILLS, COMPETENCIES AND REQUIREMENTS (HARD AND SOFT) ARE ESSENTIAL FOR THIS ROLE?

• Strong technical and analytical problem-solving skills
• Equipment sizing and application engineering capability
• Data analysis and interpretation skills
• Technical presentation and communication skills
• Customer relationship management skills
• Commercial awareness and solution-selling mindset
• Computer literacy including Microsoft Office and engineering software
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple site activities
• Ability to engage confidently with customers and technical stakeholders
• Ability to analyse operational problems and recommend practical solutions
• Ability to work in demanding mining and industrial environments
• Ability to travel extensively to mine sites and customer operations
• Ability to balance technical detail with commercial objectives