About the position
Introduction
Mintek has an exciting career opportunity for a Techno-Mineral Economist to assist in conducting research projects by providing basic level research within a particular, specialized scientific or engineering area of expertise; conduct research and development, experimental and service work, as well as expand on ideas in technology or research which could benefit the industry and the country in the long term. The Techno-Mineral Economics applies quantitative, qualitative research methods and financial modelling tools to identify key variables and sensitivities that would drive opportunities for innovation within the mining industry. Work with internal and external partners to collect primary data and thus populate and inform techno-economic models.
Duties & Responsibilities
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS:
- Understanding and using mineral statistics and economic data in executing both internal and external projects.
- Analysing the impacts of economic variables on global commodity markets and the financial performance of the local and global mining industry.
- Analysing mining regulatory frameworks and their impacts on mining industry investment.
- Interacting with both internal and external experts in the mining industry.
Research Projects
- Conducting in depth research on global commodity markets and provide forecasts on mineral production, prices and demand for various mineral commodities.
- Produce high quality research reports, conference papers and presentations on the local, global mining and related industries.
- Contributing to the development of both internal and external proposals to build the project pipeline for the unit and division.
- Provide economic research support to other Mintek divisions and external clients.
- Be aware of research conducted by other Government departments to find common academic ground.
Analysis
- Tracking and analysing political, economic, technology, legislative and policy developments and their impacts on the local and global mining industry.
- Providing commentary on the impacts of economic developments on the local and global mining industry.
Mineral & Economic Policy
- Monitor daily press regarding macroeconomic and mining related articles and industry developments.
- Identify important issues regarding economic developments in the sector through presentations, workshops, meetings and mining company visits.
- Produce quarterly briefings on global commodity markets and mining industry developments.
- Undertaking mine and other site visits.
- Understanding mining industry policies and strategies where relevant and provide commentary when requested.
Financial modelling and valuations
- Developing Excel spreadsheet models to analyse and evaluate cash flows for internal and external projects.
- Developing financial models, production forecasts and price scenarios of mineral commodities to evaluate the financial viability and optimality of mining industry projects.
- Analysing historical and current financial data, identify trends and evaluate profitability of mining companies.
- Shaping and driving financial analysis to produce insights that give direction to both internal and external client projects using financial modelling and strategic management tools.
Data Management
- Be aware of mining industry databases and their uses in projects.
- Understand key economic indicators and where they are sourced from.
- Assisting in procuring and sourcing data.
- Updating the Unit's database to ensure it contains the most recent data available.
- Understand techniques to analyse data and statistical research methods.
Desired Experience & Qualification
JOB KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE:
- Min: BEng/BSc(Hons) in Geology, Mining, Economics or relevant qualifications.
- Ideal: Relevant Masters degree.
- 5 or more years' experience as a professional, covering mining industry research, technology development orprojects.
