Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Languages
REFRENCES
Timeline
Generic

Brenda Rikhotso

Summary

Dynamic and results-driven Process Engineer specializing in mineral processing with 10 years solid background in overseeing complex metallurgical processes and implementing optimization strategies. Proven track record in metal accounting, quality control, and process improvements. Adept at leading projects from concept to completion, ensuring efficiency, and achieving measurable outcomes. Demonstrated success in training and managing cross-functional teams, coupled with a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality

Overview

8
8
years of professional experience

Work History

Process Engineer (Metallurgist)

Black Chrome Mine
10.2017 - 07.2021

Responsibilities:

In my role as a Metallurgist , I managed a wide range of responsibilities. This included overseeing metal accounting and reporting, training operators, and handling SHEQ and logistics management. I played a key role in liaising with management and foremen, addressing breakdowns, and ensuring the smooth functioning of metallurgical processes. Additionally, I conducted product reconciliation and surveying, commissioned gravity concentrator and cone crusher plants, and implemented metallurgical procedures. My role extended to drafting and implementing plant operation procedures, managing the internal supply chain, drafting safety and environmental compliance documentation , generate training curriculum for plant operators, facilitate training and conducting quality control.


Accomplishments:

During my tenure, I successfully dropped the SiO2 in foundry to less than 0.8% and significantly improved overall plant recovery by 7%. I implemented metallurgical procedures and optimized the performance of the gravity concentrator plant(improve AFS and drop SiO2). Implemented control systems for product handling and dispatch (Reduced contamination by 1.3%siO2 , dropped moisture by 7% and improvement water circulation reducing overall utility costs) Additionally, I played a pivotal role in enhancing dry screening efficiency and yield. My contributions included the development and implementation of a quality control matrix, resulting in improved overall plant efficiency. I effectively managed all metallurgical processes, prepared detailed reports, ran and provided valuable support to various projects, ensuring their successful completion.

Junior Metallurgist

Sylvania Metals
04.2017 - 09.2017

Responsibilities:

As a Junior Metallurgist my responsibilities encompassed metal accounting, compiling weekly reports, and monitoring the control room. I played a crucial role in troubleshooting and managing reagents, while also conducting technical presentations and reporting. Additionally, I liaised with management and foremen, assisting in breakdowns, and provided support for the production team by implementing and refining production recipes.


Accomplishments:

During this period, I successfully dropped the Cr:Pt ratio, improved plant recovery, and optimized the column's performance. I implemented metallurgical procedures, contributing to the overall efficiency of the processes. My proactive approach and problem-solving skills were evident in troubleshooting and enhancing the efficiency of the reagents area (optimized dosage and reduced consumptions resulting i saving 35% of reagents costs) . These achievements underscored my commitment to driving tangible results and ensuring the seamless operation of metallurgical processes.

Graduate Metallurgist

Steelpoort Sylvania Metals
05.2016 - 03.2017

Responsibilities:

As a Graduate Metallurgist my responsibilities included overseeing metal accounting and compiling weekly reports, ensuring the smooth operation of the control room through monitoring and troubleshooting, and managing reagents control and area management. I actively monitored and optimized process parameters, calibrated equipment, and established procedures for efficient operations. In addition, I played a key role in training operators, managing stockpile for chrome yield projects, and overseeing sampling procedures.


Accomplishments:

During my tenure, I successfully managed stockpile operations for chrome yield projects, contributing to optimal chrome extraction. I played a crucial role in overseeing PGM Recovery and efficiency projects, achieving notable improvements in metal recovery rates. My efforts in SHEQ management ensured a high standard of safety, health, environment, and quality compliance. I effectively calibrated and optimized process parameters, enhancing overall plant efficiency.

Learner Metallurgist

Smokey Hill Platinum Mine
05.2015 - 04.2016

Responsibilities:

As a Learner Metallurgist I played a pivotal role in data analysis, overseeing sampling, process control, and daily plant operations. I actively contributed to project and process optimization initiatives, ensuring the adherence to quality standards and efficient recovery of valuable metals.

Accomplishments:

During this period, my focus on data analysis and process optimization led to improvements in operational efficiency and the overall recovery process. I demonstrated a keen understanding of metallurgical principles in overseeing sampling procedures, contributing to the reliability and accuracy of analytical results. My commitment to continuous improvement was evident in the successful implementation of optimization strategies.

Technical and Quality Officer

AEL Mining Services
04.2013 - 03.2014

Responsibilities:

As a Technical and Quality Officer my role was integral to ensuring technical and quality standards. Responsibilities included managing technical and quality data and reporting, ensuring continuous improvement and cost reduction in key process routes, providing specialist quality support and advisory, conducting trials and investigations, and implementing new documentation to meet quality standards.

Accomplishments:

During my tenure, I successfully identified and implemented cost reduction measures, ensuring efficiency within key process routes. I played a crucial role in the introduction of new documentation, contributing to meeting and exceeding quality standards. My involvement in trials and investigations demonstrated a proactive approach to resolving technical challenges, resulting in recommendations that enhanced overall process efficiency.

Education

Bachelor of Technology in Chemical Engineering -

University of Johannesburg
01.2017

National Diploma in Chemical Engineering -

University of Johannesburg
01.2011

National Senior Certificate -

Soshanguve Technical High School
01.2010

Skills

  • Metallurgical Analysis: Proficient in conducting detailed metallurgical analyses using advanced techniques and equipment, ensuring accuracy in results
  • Process Optimization: Experienced in identifying and implementing improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and optimize overall plant performance
  • Quality Control: Skilled in maintaining rigorous quality control standards, ensuring compliance with industry regulations, and delivering high-quality end products
  • Project Management: Adept at leading projects from inception to completion, coordinating with cross-functional teams, and ensuring project goals are achieved on time and within budget
  • Training and Development: Proven ability to train and mentor operators, fostering a collaborative and skilled workforce
  • Commissioning: Hands-on experience in successfully commissioning gravity concentrator and cone crusher plants, contributing to operational excellence
  • Data Analysis and Reporting: Proficient in analyzing data, preparing comprehensive reports, and utilizing findings to drive informed decision-making
  • Safety, Health, Environment, and Quality (SHEQ): Extensive experience in SHEQ management, ensuring adherence to safety standards and environmental guidelines
  • Root Cause Analysis: Skilled in identifying root causes of issues, conducting failure analyses, and implementing preventive measures for sustainable operations
  • Technical Problem Resolution: Capable of coordinating with staff members to identify and resolve technical problems, ensuring smooth plant operations
  • Communication and Collaboration: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, facilitating effective collaboration with management, foremen, and cross-functional teams
  • Continuous Improvement: Committed to continuous learning and improvement, evidenced by achievements such as dropping Cr:Pt ratio and improving plant recovery
  • Programming and Software Tools: Familiarity with tools and technologies relevant to metallurgical processes, including accounting software and spreadsheet software

Languages

English
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
Xitsonga
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
Pedi
Advanced (C1)
Zulu
Advanced (C1)
Tswana
Advanced (C1)
Venda
Upper intermediate (B2)

REFRENCES

References are available on request

Timeline

Process Engineer (Metallurgist)

Black Chrome Mine
10.2017 - 07.2021

Junior Metallurgist

Sylvania Metals
04.2017 - 09.2017

Graduate Metallurgist

Steelpoort Sylvania Metals
05.2016 - 03.2017

Learner Metallurgist

Smokey Hill Platinum Mine
05.2015 - 04.2016

Technical and Quality Officer

AEL Mining Services
04.2013 - 03.2014

Bachelor of Technology in Chemical Engineering -

University of Johannesburg

National Diploma in Chemical Engineering -

University of Johannesburg

National Senior Certificate -

Soshanguve Technical High School
Brenda Rikhotso