At First Quantum, we free the talent of our people by taking a very different approach which is underpinned by a very different, very definite culture – the “First Quantum Way”.

Working with us is not like working anywhere else, which is why we recruit people who will take a bolder, smarter approach to spot opportunities, solve problems and deliver results.

Our culture is all about encouraging you to think independently and to challenge convention to deliver the best result. That’s how we continue to achieve extraordinary things in extraordinary locations.

Job description:

JOB DESCRIPTION

Job title:                                             …           Metallurgy Specialist – Primary Smelting

Site:                                                    …           Kansanshi

Department:                                        …           Smelter

Section:                                              …          Primary Smelting

Position reports to:                            …           Technical Superintendent– Primary Smelting

Grade:                                                 …           17

Direct reports:                                    …           None full time
Purpose

Assist the Technical Superintendent – Primary Smelting in:

• Developing and carrying out process and operating improvement projects.
• Monitoring, reviewing, analysing and drawing conclusions from operations data, test work results and effect of improvement projects

(The Primary Smelting section consists of Materials Handling section, Isasmelt Furnace, Matte Settling Electric Furnace and Isaconvert).

Key Responsibilities

• This position will be required to adhere to all relevant requirements, policies, procedures and legal regulations pertaining to health, safety, environment and quality, as well as finance, human resources, and any other regulations as required by the company and relevant to the level of the role and responsibilities of the function.
• Monitor, analyse and report on the operation of plant equipment items and processes in the Primary Smelting Section using a range of tools and systems
• Carry out data analysis and process calculations using computer-based systems
• Write technical reports and give technical presentations to internal and external audiences
• Assist in the maintenance and further development of the PI system
• Identify process and equipment problems; develop strategies, changes and modifications to solve these problems
• Identify opportunities for equipment and process improvements
• Develop and manage site-based sampling and test-work to define and implement process improvement opportunities
• Assist with (and manage) projects to improve plant operations and safety
• Assist operators and maintenance workers with fault-finding and problem solving
• Offer technical advice and process information to operators and maintenance workers to assist in achieving plant safety and production targets
• Assist in keeping the plant Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs) up-to-date
• Develop operating procedures, risk assessments, safe work instructions and other similar documents as required
• Provide technical supervision and assistance during plant shutdowns
• Other duties as directed by the Superintendent – Technical Primary Smelting

Qualifications

Minimum requirements:

University Degree in Process Engineering, Mineral Processing, Chemical Engineering, Metallurgy or equivalent

Experience

Required:

• At least 5 years’ experience in a process plant. Experience in a hot metal plant, hydro met plant or mineral dressing plant would be an advantage.
• Skilled user of standard computer applications such as Microsoft Excel, mass and energy balance programs
• Familiarity with engineering drawings
• Advanced level of literacy and numeracy

Experience in AVEVA PI System is considered an advantage.

BEHAVIOURAL TRAITS

• High level of analytical and communication skills and the ability to present ideas clearly and concisely
• Critical thinking and data analysis
• Good at implementing changes in operating practice
• Systematic monitoring and assessment skills

OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Develop a high level of knowledge of equipment, process flow sheet and process control used on the plant
• Analyse and solve problems
• Report on plant and process data