Job title : R&D Operator
Job Location : North West,
Deadline : November 15, 2025
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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 protocolsRole 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 targetsMonitor, 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 exceededMonitor 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 efficiencyProvide physical and technical support during plant and report operational delays and process inefficiencies to minimise bottlenecks and plant lock upParticipate 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 breakdownsDocument any identified breakdowns and report to management for escalation and maintenance schedulingContribute to the preparation of reports on production, safety and maintenance activities by recording equipment inspections, repairs and maintenance activities to ensure complianceWork 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 stabilityContribute to the implementation of corrective actions within established guidelines to address deviations from specifications including the adjustment and verification of parametersConduct 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 metResource Management
Determine resource needs of the team and / or own area of work to achieve business outcomesMonitor 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 managedRequest and allocate required equipment and / or resources for the fulfilment of work objectives to guarantee quality outputsAddress team dynamics and champion teamwork and synergy to create a positive work environment and improve employee relationsMaintain a comprehensive checklist to consistently check equipment and identify need for spares sourcing and maintenance or replacementStakeholder Relations
Engage with all relevant Departments on issues of the area of specialisation, as directed by the ManagerCommunicate with internal and / or external stakeholders, where required, to achieve work objectives and to maintain relationshipsCollaborate with Evaluation Foreman to contribute to the development and implementation of process improvement initiatives to enhance plant performance during shiftsCollaborate with the maintenance department in order to ensure a world class maintenance culture is established and maintained on the plantCompliance, Risk and Safety
Adhere to a set plant specific Risk Management Policy and appropriate Procedures and Standards (Codes of Practice) during shiftsParticipate in pre-shift safety discussion to raise awareness and promote a safety-first mindset to maintain safety awareness of hazards and behaviours and reduce incidentsParticipate in relevant and necessary training to ensure consistent adherence to safety guidelines all the time to ensureMaintain good housekeeping in area of accountability in line with safety standards and proceduresMaintain 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 plantParticipate in collaborative efforts to adhere to and execute drills and escape procedures in case of emergencies and operational requirements to mitigate risks and fatalitiesJob Requirements
Qualifications :
Grade 12 / NQF Level 4 (Maths & Science)National Diploma in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering or Chemistry or working towards P1 / P2 Experiential trainingJob-specific experience :
One year’s experience as an Operator in a metallurgical process operation including PGM flotationPrevious R&D experience with Metallurgical Test works (Advantageous)Experience in mass and energy balancesScience jobs