Job Description

Company Description
The role of the Metallurgical Technician will be to Support metallurgical operations by performing tests, monitoring processes, and ensuring quality control of iron ore products.
You're not just managing process. You're realizing potential.
Guided by our purpose and our values, we enable both high performance and purposeful action as we aim to "re-imagine mining to improve people's lives", delivering the metals and minerals that make modern life possible.
Kumba Iron Ore
We produce high-grade iron ore, the key component in steel widely used in construction and manufacturing across the world. Our activities include all aspects - exploration; mining; processing and blending; shipping; marketing and selling. In South Africa, we have mining operations in the Northern Cape province, as well as a head office in Gauteng, and a port operation in Saldanha Bay, Western Cape.

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.

Additional Information
Who We Are
We aim to lead the industry by pursuing ever safer and more responsible ways of working, demonstrating integrity and showing care and respect for people and the planet, that means we are constantly seeking new opportunities to mine and process our products sustainably, using less water, less energy and more precise extraction technologies.
What We Offer
When you join Anglo American, you can expect to enjoy a competitive salary and benefits package. But more than this, you'll find yourself in an environment where the opportunities for learning and growth are second to none. From technical training to leadership programmes, we bring out the best in our people. There are plenty of opportunities to move onwards and upwards too. We're a large, successful multinational company - and we're still growing all the time.
Inclusion and Diversity
Anglo American is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to promoting an inclusive and diverse workplace where we value and respect every colleague for who they are and provide equality of opportunity so that everyone can fulfil their potential.
How to apply
To apply for this role, please complete our online application form. You will have the opportunity to upload your CV and other relevant documentation as part of this process.

Skills Required