Job Posting Date: 23 Feb 2026
Plant Metallurgist – Port Pirie, South Australia
Function: Production • Location: AU • Employment Type: Full‐time, Site‐Based • Industry: Mining, Processing & Refining
Overview of the role
We are currently seeking expressions of interest for a Plant Metallurgist to join our Refinery Team in Port Pirie. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced and highly motivated Metallurgist to work in one of the world's leading and most complex metallurgical facilities. The successful applicant will play a key role in supporting and driving process improvements, stabilising operations, and contributing to the next phase of growth and innovation across our multi‐metals refinery operations.
Key Responsibilities
* Providing expert technical and operational support to refinery operations teams.
* Identifying and implementing innovative initiatives and projects to improve plant performance and process stability.
* Driving process optimisation, debottlenecking, and capacity increases within the plant while maintaining the highest safety standards.
* Managing and mitigating operational, environmental, safety and business risks.
* Conducting plant and project trials to develop and implement strategies aligned with long‐term production goals.
* Analysing operational data to identify areas for improvement and troubleshoot performance issues.
* Collaborating with cross‐functional teams, including technical, operational, engineering and asset management functions, to achieve organisational objectives.
About You
To excel in this role, you will possess:
Qualifications & Experience
* A formal qualification in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgy or a related field.
* A minimum of 2–5 years' site‐based experience in a related role.
* Experience in refinery operations, with a strong understanding of complex metallurgical processes is highly desirable.
* Prior experience with operational performance improvement, process optimisation or managing metallurgical projects is highly desirable.
Technical Skills
* Strong technical problem‐solving skills and analytical ability, supported by proficiency in interpreting operational and process data.
* Superior skills in Microsoft Excel and other related software tools for data analysis and reporting.
* Demonstrated success in implementing process control improvements, with a focus on safety and environmental considerations.
Personal Attributes
* Highly motivated, results‐driven and passionate about metallurgy and process engineering.
* Exceptional communication, leadership and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate across teams.
* A strong client focus with the ability to build and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
What we offer
At Nyrstar, we don't just offer jobs – we build careers. You will be joining a collaborative team in a global company where innovation and continuous improvement drive everything we do.
This role offers:
* A permanent – full‐time, key influential role in the Refinery within a stable and growing global company.
* 5 weeks annual leave.
* Competitive salary package, with relocation assistance if needed (only 2.5 hrs from Adelaide).
* Fitness Passport discounted gym memberships.
* Salary sacrifice novated car leasing.
* Subsidised Dental Care & Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
* Paid parental leave.
* Further education support.
* A relocation package may be offered for this role.
Ready to shape the future of global metals with Nyrstar?
Apply Now to submit your resume and cover letter. For more information, contact us directly for a confidential discussion. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, so don't delay – apply today!
About Nyrstar
Nyrstar is an international producer of critical minerals and metals essential for a low‐carbon future. With a market‐leading position in zinc and lead, Nyrstar has mining, smelting and other operations located in Europe, the United States and Australia and employs approximately 4,000 people. With the support of the Australian, South Australian and Tasmanian Governments, Nyrstar Australia is pursuing opportunities to develop new critical minerals products and distribution channels – repositioning the Australian business for the long term. Nyrstar's operating business is wholly owned by Trafigura, one of the world's leading independent commodity trading and supply chain logistics companies.
Visit www.nyrstar.com
Please note you must have unrestricted valid rights to work in Australia. Nyrstar is an equal opportunity employer and supports diversity within its workforce. Nyrstar Port Pirie's Safety Policy requires clean shaven employees and is a non‐smoking site. As a Major Hazard Facility that is subject to SafeWork SA regulations, you may be asked questions regarding your physical attributes to ensure regulatory compliance. Only applicants who progress to the next stage will be contacted. Thank you for your interest in applying for a position at Nyrstar.
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