R&D Operator at Tharisa

Purpose of Role

• To execute all tasks and activities in the process plant regarding the operation of laboratory test work and improvement initiatives to ensure adherence to specifications and monitoring production parameters to enable the achievement of metallurgical targets within set parameters and maintaining plant stability in adherence to safety standards in line with the MHSA and Tharisa Risk Management protocols

Role Context

Operational Management

• Execute pilot plant test work activities including analyses and ensure alignment to stipulated recipes to contribute to the achievement of production / metallurgical targets
• Monitor, measure and analyse data for reporting during set intervals and suggest operational adjustments as needed to ensure production quotas and quality standards are met or exceeded
• Monitor and guide plant attendant regarding their execution of tasks and utilisation of plant equipment within defined scope ensuring adherence to the production plans to achieve process stability and efficiency
• Provide physical and technical support during plant and report operational delays and process inefficiencies to minimise bottlenecks and plant lock up
• Participate in the maintenance and repair of all machinery and equipment within the process plant by actively testing and reporting defects to ensure continuous productivity and minimise downtime caused by breakdowns
• Document any identified breakdowns and report to management for escalation and maintenance scheduling
• Contribute to the preparation of reports on production, safety and maintenance activities by recording equipment inspections, repairs and maintenance activities to ensure compliance
• Work across multiple sections in the plant to enable inter-links and integration with the laboratory regarding processes to ensure timely and efficient execution of tasks to maintain plant stability
• Contribute to the implementation of corrective actions within established guidelines to address deviations from specifications including the adjustment and verification of parameters
• Conduct pre-work assessments to ensure all equipment and area of work identifying any risks and concerns and escalate to supervisor ensuring all safety requirements are met

Resource Management

• Determine resource needs of the team and/or own area of work to achieve business outcomes
• Monitor the use of assets and resources within the team and own area of responsibility, to ensure assets and resources are consistently and appropriately utilised and managed
• Request and allocate required equipment and/or resources for the fulfilment of work objectives to guarantee quality outputs
• Address team dynamics and champion teamwork and synergy to create a positive work environment and improve employee relations
• Maintain a comprehensive checklist to consistently check equipment and identify need for spares sourcing and maintenance or replacement

Stakeholder Relations

• Engage with all relevant Departments on issues of the area of specialisation, as directed by the Manager
• Communicate with internal and/or external stakeholders, where required, to achieve work objectives and to maintain relationships
• Collaborate with Evaluation Foreman to contribute to the development and implementation of process improvement initiatives to enhance plant performance during shifts
• Collaborate with the maintenance department in order to ensure a world class maintenance culture is established and maintained on the plant

Compliance, Risk and Safety

• Adhere to a set plant specific Risk Management Policy and appropriate Procedures and Standards (Codes of Practice) during shifts
• Participate in pre-shift safety discussion to raise awareness and promote a safety-first mindset to maintain safety awareness of hazards and behaviours and reduce incidents
• Participate in relevant and necessary training to ensure consistent adherence to safety guidelines all the time to ensure
• Maintain good housekeeping in area of accountability in line with safety standards and procedures
• Maintain a proactive approach to all safety protocols by creating awareness of hazards and behaviour in order to adhere to compliance to minimise risk of accidents and injuries within the plant
• Participate in collaborative efforts to adhere to and execute drills and escape procedures in case of emergencies and operational requirements to mitigate risks and fatalities

Job Requirements
Qualifications:

• Grade 12/ NQF Level 4 (Maths & Science)
• National Diploma in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering or Chemistry or working towards P1/P2 Experiential training

Job-specific experience:

• One year’s experience as an Operator in a metallurgical process operation including PGM flotation
• Previous R&D experience with Metallurgical Test works (Advantageous)
• Experience in mass and energy balances