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:

Overall Job Purpose:

Process Control Specialist is responsible for ensuring that all the functions of the business unit, in the context of assisting operations with the implementation of new plant practices, operational procedures and new control philosophies aimed at improving plant performance and with a focus on the design, monitoring, optimisation, maintenance and roll-out of the process control systems, are fulfilled in a timely and cost efficient manner.

Specific Job Responsibilities:

Carry a leading role within the context of the Process control activities by applying innovative solutions aimed at optimizing plant metallurgical performance and operational costs reduction.
Manage all the initiatives aimed at maintaining and optimizing the performance of the following equipment and systems, but not limited to: Distributed Control System; Advance Control (Expert) System; Metallurgical Sampling Systems; Particle Size Analysers; On-Stream Analysers; Online Rock fragmentation monitoring cameras; SAG Mills Liner Protection and Charge monitoring systems and Flotation Froth Monitoring Cameras.
Lead the implementation of new plant practices, operational procedures and new control philosophies.
Lead process performance analysis and improvements initiatives, and deploy advanced reporting functions.
Lead the strategy relative to the maintenance, development, expansion and tuning of the advanced control system (Expert System).
Lead the deployment of new plant performance monitoring tools and systems
Lead and deploy programmes aimed at upgrading Control Room personnel skills set, in the context of applying the best operational practices and maximizing the use of automated sequences, control loops and advanced controls functions.
Collaborate with plant operations team and other stakeholders to develop and refine control strategies for all plant processes.
Support the function of specifying and selecting appropriate instrumentation and control devices for process measurement and control with Engineering department.
Diagnose and resolve process control system issues and malfunctions in a timely manner to minimize production disruptions.
Monitor preventive maintenance programs for control systems and instrumentation to ensure reliability and availability.
Analyse process data and historical trends to identify opportunities for process optimization and improved efficiency.
Ensure that process control systems comply with safety regulations and guidelines.
Participate in safety assessments and risk evaluations.
Maintain detailed records of control system configurations, changes, and maintenance activities.
Prepare regular reports on process control system performance and improvements for management and stakeholders.
Manage the Budget of the Process Control Section and Plan and Direct all the activities and resources relative to it.
Perform any other duties as assigned by the Senior Superintendent.

Job Specific Competencies:

Excellent literacy and numeracy skills.
Strong I.T skills.
Strong understanding of complex metallurgical information, process improvement and control strategies.

Key Job Attributes:

Must be thorough and detail oriented.
Must be dependable and self-motivated.
Must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to interact with people of different cultures.
Must be bold, smart and driven.
Must be able to work under pressure and multi-task.
Must be adaptable and a team player.
Work safely and to regulations – setting an example for all personnel.

Experience required to perform in this job:

Over 3 years of experience in process control system design and implementation within an industrial setting.
Proficiency in control system platforms, including DCS, PLC, SCADA, and HMI systems.
Knowledge of instrumentation and process control devices.
Flotation circuit experience is advantageous.

Qualifications:

Full grade twelve (G12) certificate.
Bachelor’s degree in Control Systems Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Extractive metallurgy, mineral processing or related field.
Manual SADC class B driver’s licence preferred.
EIZ membership eligibility.