WORKING IN NEW ZEALAND

Researches, develops, controls and provides advice on processes used in extracting metals from their ores and the washing, crushing and grading of ore or refining metals.

SKILL LEVEL:

The entry requirement for this occupation is a bachelor degree or higher qualification. In some instances relevant experience is required in addition to the formal qualification. Registration or licensing may be required.

TASKS INCLUDE:

• studies and applies chemical and metallurgical techniques for extracting and refining metallic materials from their ores or concentrates
• coordinates the analysis of samples taken from metallurgical process streams to ensure safe and economic operation
• advises operations personnel on process changes required to obtain desired products, processes and quality control
• specifies temperature adjustments, charge mixtures and other processing variables to obtain pig iron, steel or other metals of specified quality
• investigates methods of improving metallurgical processes such as selective oxidation, reduction, electrolysis, and distillation to extract aluminium, lead, copper, zinc, nickel and other non-ferrous metals from their ores
• assists with the design and preparation of specifications for primary and preparation plants
• may prepare cost budgets of operations to evaluate the economic feasibility of processes
• may supervise and coordinate the work of technicians and other workers in the extractive process

SPECIALISATIONS:

Pyrometallurgical Engineer