Technician: Flotation Group

Mintek, South Africa's national mineral research organisation, is one of the world's leading technology organisations specialising in mineral processing, extractive metallurgy and related areas. Working closely with industry and other R&D institutions, Mintek provides service test work, process development and optimisation, consulting and innovative products to clients world-wide. Mintek is an autonomous statutory organisation which reports to the Minister of Mineral Resources. About 30 per cent of the annual budget of R390 million is funded by the State Science Vote, with the balance provided by contract R&D, sales of products and services, technology licensing agreements, and joint-venture private sector companies. Mintek has about 780 permanent staff members, over half of whom are scientists, engineers and other technical R&D specialists. Mintek as a company operates within the complex and challenging economic and social landscape that characterises South Africa. Added to this responsibility is the task of operating effectively in the global environment, and satisfying the demands of a knowledgeable customer base. Specialties Research in mineral processing extractive metallurgy and mineral beneficiation.Job description

KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS:

Assume the responsibility of Leader on selected MPD's bench scale tests and pilot plant campaigns. Assist with the construction, commissioning and operation of pilot plants and laboratory test equipment of either Flotation or Comminution Group. Conduct laboratory experiments and participate in the execution of pilot plants. Assist chief investigators to meet the technical objectives of projects and contribute to technical problem solving. Train contract workers and operators in the safe and correct use of equipment and in the execution of laboratory and pilot plant-procedures. Independently manage unit operations that form part of larger projects. This include planning,staffing, operation, quality control and reporting on those unit operations. Perform basic calculations related to the execution of laboratory experiments and pilot plant operations. Assume responsibility for calibration of equipment, pH electrodes etc.. Ensure that data is correctly logged and monitor the accuracy of data that is reported. Ensure that all SHEQ matters are fully complied with at all times. Ensure that equipment is used correctly and responsibly to avoid, or minimize, damage thereof. Execution, People and planning Performs highly complex laboratory data acquisition, manipulation, reduction and analysis. Compiles data and computes results, ensuring quality control and compliance with protocols, and provides comprehensive analysis of results to researchers. Sets-up, calibrates, operates and maintains sophisticated equipment and facilities. Reviews experimental and test results to ascertain their validity and the reliability of the data and to ensure proper functioning of the equipment. Participates in the design of experiments and may develop and coordinate specific aspects of the research. Selects, modifies and adapts equipment, facilities and instrumentation to specific project requirements. Minimum requirements Minimum: BTech degree in Chemical Engineering / Extractive Metallurgy is required. Ideal: MTech in Chemical Engineering / Extractive Metallurgy Minimum experience: On-the-job training gained after graduation. Ideal experience: 3 years' experience in the operation of relevant mineral processing unit operations such as flotation test work, sample preparation, comminution bench scale tests, milling circuits, operation of crushers, flotation processes. Or more than 5 years broad-based experience across mineral processing environment.