Senior Scientist: Process Mineralogy needed at Mintek

KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS:

• Assist Head/Executive manager to maintain and expand on project work from the mining/metallurgical industry, and associated funding instruments, in line with the Division’s current business plans, by providing competence and professional expertise, and interacting with clients/stakeholders.
• Ascertain needs of clients/stakeholders and propose appropriate project work to secure income for the Division.
• Execute projects to meet the time scheduling agreed to with the client/stakeholder, contain costs for the Division and deliver valid conclusions with technical efficiency and professionalism.
• Lead and execute projects with technical expertise for which interactions with clients/stakeholders are required at an advanced level.
• Comply with the internal administration requirements of Mintek and the Mineralogy Division with respect to labour and instrument time capture, business governance (in IFS), professional reporting and project management.
• Ensure that SHEQ procedures are followed and project work is executed to produce valid conclusions and with maximum overall efficiency – technically and financially.
• A proven record of research experience and publications in a field related to and adjacent to the mining industry.
• Ensure that the documentation of work and procedures is done and produce advanced professional level reports and publications.

Minimum requirements

JOB KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE:

•  5 years or more experience in the operation of mineralogical equipment (e.g., X-ray diffraction, scanning- or automated scanning- electron microscopy, electron probe microanalysis, optical microscopy), processing and interpretation of derived data therefrom. Preference will be given to candidates with automated scanning electron microscopy experience (MLA, QEMSCAN or TIMA).
• Operation/understanding of instruments related to emerging techniques in mineralogy will be advantageous.
• The incumbent must be highly organised, able to multi-task and pay attention to detail, with excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Drafting of proposals that meet client/stakeholder objectives
• Client relationship management
• Project Management Skills.

QUALIFICATIONS:

•  At least an MSc (Geology, Earth Science, Mineralogy or Metallurgy/Engineering)
• PhD will be advantageous