Metallurgical Technician - Fixed Term (FTE) at Anglo American

Job Description:

As a Metallurgical Technician your responsibilities will include the following:

• Ensure compliance with environmental and regulatory standards in metallurgical operations.
• Adhere to SHE and quality standards while performing all tasks.
• Read, sign off, and strictly adhere to all relevant work instructions and standards.
• Attend safety meetings as instructed.
• Maintain a consistently clean allocated area, applying good housekeeping practices to create a hazard-free environment.
• Active participation in SLAMs, HPHs, relevant Risk Assessments and close-out of Safety Actions.
• Apply basic scientific and metallurgical principles in laboratory, pilot plant, and full-scale plant environments.
• Conduct routine physical and chemical tests on iron ore samples to determine properties such as hardness, density, and mineral composition.
• Assist in the operation and monitoring of metallurgical processes like crushing, screening, magnetic separation, and flotation.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment used for metallurgical testing.
• Monitor and report on ore quality and composition throughout the mining and processing stages.
• Support metallurgical investigations to optimise recovery, grade, and throughput.
• Sample Preparation and Testing
• Collect and prepare rock, mineral, and metal samples for analysis.
• Use instruments such as microscopes, spectrometers, and densitometers to examine samples.
• Maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment to ensure accuracy and reliability.
• Conduct routine metallurgical tests such as grindability, flotation, and moisture content.
• Record and interpret test results to support process improvements and troubleshooting.
• Data Collection and Reporting
• Record and analyse test results, prepare technical reports, graphs, and charts.
• Communicate findings clearly to engineers, metallurgists, and production teams using correct metallurgical terminology.
• Maintain accurate records of sample logs and metallurgical data.
• Use software tools to analyse trends and performance metrics.
• Assist in the development and updating of metallurgical models and process flow diagrams.
• Assist metallurgists in processing experiments and interpreting test results.
• Monitor metallurgical processes to ensure optimal performance and adherence to safety and quality standards.
• Participate in troubleshooting and continuous improvement initiatives related to ore beneficiation and metal recovery.
• Collaborate with plant operators to ensure metallurgical parameters are maintained within target ranges.
• Participate in metallurgical audits and plant trials to evaluate new technologies or process changes.
• Work closely with senior metallurgists, geologists, mining engineers, and plant personnel.
• Support training and mentoring of interns or new team members when applicable.
• Attend internal and external training sessions to build technical and analytical skills.
• Seek feedback and guidance from senior metallurgists to improve performance.
• Stay updated on industry best practices, new technologies, and metallurgical research.

This role is in the Processing department at a level Band 7/9 (C5) reporting to the Metallurgist 

Qualifications:

• Grade 12 Certificate
• Relevant National Qualification in Metallurgy (NQF Level 5), typically requiring prior learning at NQF Level 4 in Mathematics, Science, and English.
• National Diploma (NQF6)/Degree NQF7 in Metallurgy

Certifications

• Prescribed
• Preferred
• SA Drivers Licence
• A2 Safety Certificate

Technical Knowledge

• Possess a strong understanding of metallurgical principles and iron ore beneficiation techniques.Familiar with fundamental concepts of physical, extractive, and chemical metallurgy.
• Knowledgeable in iron ore processing methods such as crushing, screening, and magnetic separation.
• Understand properties and behaviours of ferrous metals and alloys, along with corrosion types and prevention strategies.
• Aware of failure mechanisms and appropriate material selection in mining applications.
• Experienced in mineral processing methods, including hydrometallurgy and pyrometallurgy.
• Knowledge of thermodynamics and chemical reactions involved in metallurgical operations.
• Comprehend environmental chemistry aspects and mine safety regulations.
• Skilled in sample preparation, testing procedures, and non-destructive testing methods like ultrasonic and radiography.
• Understand data interpretation and comprehensive reporting.
• Basic proficiency in physics, chemistry, mathematics, engineering drawing, and computing applications.
• Understand safety principles and legal compliance requirements.

Closing Date:

• 10 October, 2025