Metallurgical Engineer and Metallurgical  Engineering Technician

A metallurgical engineer is theoretically and practically trained in the recovery of useful minerals and metal from its original and complex compounds and to study its physical properties with a view to processing the metal into useful products.

The metallurgical engineering technician performs technical tasks related to metallurgical research in order to develop improved methods of extracting and refining minerals and metals from ores.

Job Characteristics

Metallurgical Engineer

• Conducting research and advising on designing and developing new and improved methods to deal with metallurgy and material-engineering aspects.



• Studying and advising on technological aspects of particular materials and processes.



• Determining the most efficient methods of ore extraction, turning raw materials into metals and alloys.



• Advising on the application of minerals and metals.



• Investigating the properties of metals and alloys, developing new alloys and advising on and supervising technical aspects of metal and alloy manufacturing and processing.

Metallurgical Engineering Technician

Doing research with regard to the development of processes in order to determine the properties of metal and new alloys, or improved methods for the extraction of metals, oil and natural gases.

Designing the layout of the processing and refining plants for metals as well as providing technical supervision regarding the construction, installation and operation of such plants.

Preparing detailed estimates of quantities and costs of materials and labour required for mineral and metal processing to ensure satisfactory performance with specification and regulations.

Requirements

Secondary Education
Possession of a HIGCSE Grade 12, or equivalent qualification, with matriculation exemption and above average marks, is required to gain admission to South African universities (in order to register as professional engineer).

A HIGCSE or outstanding IGCSE Grade 12, or equivalent qualification, is needed for enrolment at a South African technikon (for the engineering technician route).
Compulsory subjects: Mathematics and Physical Science on HIGCSE level (South Africa)

Tertiary Education
A four-year B. Eng. or B. Sc. (Metallurgical Engineering) can be pursued at the South African universities of Pretoria, Stellenbosch, Witwatersrand, Potchefstroom and Cape Town. Theoretical lectures are supplemented by practical tutorials.

After a minimum training period of three years candidates can register with the Engineering Council of Namibia as professional engineers.

A N. Dip.: Engineering can be followed at numerous South African technikons namely Port Elizabeth, Vaal Triangle and Witwatersrand.

After a minimum training period of three years, candidates can register with the Engineering Council of Namibia as engineering technicians.

A B. Tech. qualification, plus three years of practical training, allows for registration as incorporated engineer with the Engineering Council of Namibia.

No formal training is currently offered in Namibia but training opportunities for already qualified candidates do, however, exist.

Personality
The prospective metallurgical engineer and metallurgical engineering technician should be logical and analytical thinkers with an innovative and practical predisposition.

Work Opportunities
Opportunities in Namibia mainly exist at mining companies.
 
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