Director of new Technologies

Director of New Technologies at Mintek

Mintek

Salary Not Disclosed

Permanent Mid-Level Position

Job 2642466 – Ref. MN_4233988

About the Position

Introduction
Mintek is seeking a Director to lead fundamental and applied research, as well as technology demonstration, in the Pyrometallurgy Division. The selected candidate will provide specialized support in the development, demonstration, and commercialization of products and services developed by Mintek. Contributing to human capital development and a willingness to work toward a common goal, with a strong sense of fairness and inclusion, are essential attributes for this position.

Functions and Responsibilities
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS:

Carry out all activities of the Division, including business development, applied research and technology development, technology transfer, and commercialization.

Strategically lead high-impact R&D&I programs, commercial projects, contract research, and funding strategies to boost productivity and ensure the Division’s financial sustainability.

Provide technical leadership in the formulation and execution of disciplinary and multidisciplinary tasks requiring the integration of specialized knowledge and skills, and serve as a key technical resource within the Division.

Provide expert and specialized support in the planning, demonstration, and management of complex pilot projects.

Develop and draft proposals for new R&D projects that promote the establishment and maintenance of world-class R&D&I infrastructure, research programs, and human capital capacity at Mintek.

Provide comprehensive administrative support to the Division, including the management and coordination of procurement processes for R&D&I infrastructure projects.

Contribute to human capital development through coaching and mentoring, including postgraduate supervision when necessary.

Contribute to the visibility and credibility of the Division by creating and maintaining long-term collaborations with industrial and academic partners, both locally and globally.

Provide disciplinary and multidisciplinary assessment and guidance on strategic, governance, and operational risks affecting the Division.

Desired Experience and Qualifications
KNOWLEDGE AND WORK EXPERIENCE:

Minimum 10 years of experience in research and/or technological development in pyrometallurgy.

Experience in the design and operation of pilot and/or industrial-scale electric arc furnaces.

Strong ability to plan and execute pyrometallurgical tests, with the skill to develop experimental techniques, models, and custom prototypes, from basic principles to pilot-scale demonstration.

Proven track record of leading multidisciplinary teams in specialized research areas, such as computational methods in engineering and process design, design and characterization of refractory materials, and technology and process demonstration.

Demonstrable ability to conceptualize and manage complex R&D projects and take ideas from concept to commercialization.

Experience in the design of pyrometallurgical processes and flow diagrams using thermochemical software such as HSC Chemistry and FactSage.

A strong portfolio of publications in peer-reviewed, ISI-indexed journals.

Demonstrated ability to attract industrial and/or bilateral funding for research will be considered a plus.

REQUIREMENTS:

Master’s degree in Metallurgical, Chemical, Process, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering, or equivalent, with a specialization in pyrometallurgy research and/or technological development.

A PhD in Metallurgical, Chemical, Process, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering, or equivalent, with a specialization in pyrometallurgy research and/or technological development, is a significant advantage.

Professional registration is an additional advantage.

Experience supervising graduate theses is an added advantage.

BEHAVIORAL COMPETENCIES:

Ability to work in a team, enjoy variety, and have a strong aptitude for planning and executing innovative, high-impact research.

Passion for research, technological development, and technology transfer.

Excellent interpersonal skills.

Ability to work in a stressful and demanding environment.

Willingness to travel locally and internationally.

Prepared to work shifts in hot and dusty industrial environments when required.

Ability to interact independently with industry leaders, operators, and high-level international stakeholders.

Excellent writing and presentation skills.