Principal Engineer- Technology Demonstration - Re-Advert
Listing reference: minte_000135
Listing status: Under Review
Apply by: 31 August 2023
Position summary
Industry: Scientific, Research & Development
Job category: RandD, Science and Scientific Research
Location: Randburg
Contract: Permanent
Remuneration: Market Related
EE position: Yes
Introduction
Mintek has an exciting career opportunity for a Principal Engineer in the Pyrometallurgy Division. The successful candidate must demonstrate the ability to drive value-added RDI activities in the Technology Demonstration Group. The successful candidate will provide expert leadership in the development and demonstration of value-added and niche technologies, products and processes in the Discipline. Contributing to human capital development through coaching and mentoring of junior engineers, postdoctoral research fellows and graduate trainees is a non-negotiable component of the role.
Job description
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS:
- Perform the total scope of work in the Discipline, including business development, fundamental research, technology development and technology demonstration.
- Provide leadership in developing a pipeline of high impact areas for long-term RDI programmes, commercial projects, contract research and funding strategies to drive productivity and ensure the financial sustainability of the Discipline. This includes actively taking part in large international funding proposals to attract funding for multidisciplinary research projects and programmes.
- Conceptualise, lead and execute technical RDI projects to develop nascent experimental techniques, models, processes, and technologies to deliver value-added services to stakeholders. This includes undertaking scientific and applied research to enhance the fundamental understanding of pyrometallurgical processes.
- Plan and write proposals for internal, local and international funding, including contract research proposals to ensure financial sustainability of the Discipline.
- Enhance the visibility and credibility of the Discipline through networking and building long-term collaborations and partnerships, both locally and globally. This includes actively engaging with industry and other ecosystem partners to determine system requirements, and identify and address potential barriers to implementation of desired solutions.
- Contribute to human capital development through coaching and mentoring of junior staff in the Discipline. This includes leading and managing cross-functional teams and providing postgraduate supervision where necessary.
- Communicate strategic and technical information in a professional manner, including communicating own and team research through technical publications in accredited journals and peer-received conferences.
- Provide a safe working environment through strict compliance to the health and safety procedures of the Discipline as well as those of Mintek.
BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:
- Team player who enjoys variety and has a strong affinity for planning and executing new and high impact research.
- Passion for learning, pyrometallurgy research and technology transfer.
- High ethical standards and ability to maintain confidentiality at all times and ensure that Mintek’s IP is protected at all times.
- Ability to cope in a stressful and demanding environment.
- Preparedness to work shifts in hot and dusty plant environments when required.
- Willingness to travel locally and internationally.
- Ability to independently engage with industry leaders, operators and high level international stakeholders.
- Excellent writing and presentation skills.
Minimum requirements
JOB KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE:
- Minimum 6-7 years’ experience in pyrometallurgy research and technology development.
- Demonstrated ability to develop experimental techniques, models and prototypes
- Ability to manage high-temperature equipment, both at laboratory and at pilot scale or demonstration levels.
- Experience in designing pyrometallurgical processes using thermochemical software tools such as PyroSim™ and FactSage™.
- Demonstrable experienced in managing complex technical projects, particularly from concept to higher technology readiness levels.
- A strong understanding of pyrometallurgy fundamentals.
- Strong portfolio of publications in peer-reviewed journals.
- A good understanding of the global metals, minerals and energy industry is non-negotiable.
- Knowledge or experience with SHEQ systems is non-negotiable
- Knowledge of technology transfer, commercialisation and product development is highly advantageous
- Demonstrated ability to attract investment or R&D funding is highly advantageous.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- A minimum PhD in Chemical/ Metallurgical/ Mechanical/Electrical/Process Engineering or equivalent, with a strong focus on pyrometallurgy research and technology development
- Professional recognition and registration is an added advantage.