Applications Engineer at Metso

We are seeking an Applications Engineer to join our Pumps Team. The successful candidate will be responsible providing technical and application support for Pumps, Cyclones, Valves, and Hoses within mining and mineral processing operations.
The role focuses on equipment selection, performance optimization, competitor replacement opportunities, field trials, and delivering technically sound solutions that improve customer operational performance and lifecycle cost efficiency.
The Applications Engineer works closely with the Trials and Replacements Manager to identify conversion opportunities, execute product trials, and support business growth through technical engagement and customer relationship development.
In this position, you will report to the Trials and Replacements Manager - Pumps, Cyclones, Valves & Hoses.
This position is mainly located in Centurion, Gauteng.


TEAM YOU'LL BELONG TO


You will join the Engineering Team and work closely with internal and external stakeholders, such as Sales & Accounts Managers, Technical Sales Support Teams, Engineering Teams and Service & Operations Teams.


WHAT YOU WILL DO

Technical Application Support


Provide technical support for slurry pumps, hydro-cyclones, valves, and hoses across mining and mineral processing applications
Conduct equipment sizing, selection, and application evaluations based on process and operational data
Review customer process conditions and recommend optimized equipment solutions
Support troubleshooting and root cause analysis for equipment performance issues


Trials & Competitor Replacement Projects


Identify and support competitor replacement opportunities in existing operations
Assist in planning, executing, and monitoring field trials for pumps, cyclones, valves, and hoses
Collect, analyse, and interpret trial performance data and prepare technical reports
Demonstrate performance improvements related to wear life, efficiency, throughput, reliability, and total cost of ownership
Work with customers to minimize operational risks during replacement or trial implementation


Customer Engagement & Technical Sales Support


Provide technical support during customer meetings, site visits, and presentations
Support sales teams with technical proposals, equipment recommendations, and value propositions
Assist in preparing tender responses and technical submissions
Build strong technical relationships with plant personnel, engineers, and decision-makers


Site Inspections & Performance Optimization


Conduct plant audits, inspections, and condition assessments
Evaluate equipment wear patterns, operational conditions, and maintenance practices
Recommend optimization opportunities to improve process efficiency and equipment reliability
Support customers with operational best practices and product training


Engineering & Documentation


Prepare technical reports, sizing calculations, application recommendations, and performance analyses
Maintain accurate records of site activities, trials, and replacement opportunities
Support the development of case studies and technical reference material
Ensure compliance with engineering standards and company procedures


Cross Functional Collaboration


Collaborate with engineering, product management, service, and operations teams
Provide field feedback to support continuous product improvement and innovation
Support inventory and parts planning discussions related to trials and installed equipment


WHO YOU ARE


Matric (Grade 12)
Bachelor's Degree or National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Process Engineering or any related Engineering Discipline
Additional training in slurry pumping, mineral processing, or fluid handling systems is advantageous


Minimum 3 - 7 years' experience in:


Mining or mineral processing operations
Slurry pumps, cyclones, valves, or hose applications
Technical sales or applications engineering
Process plant operations or maintenance support


Experience in:


Grinding and classification circuits
Slurry transport systems
Field troubleshooting and plant optimization
Competitor replacement projects or equipment trials
Knowledge of mineral processing circuits and slurry handling systems


Understanding of:


Centrifugal slurry pumps
Hydrocyclone operation and classification principles
Industrial valves and hose systems
Wear mechanisms and material selection
Pump and process performance calculations


Knowledge of:


Mining plant operations and maintenance practices
Technical report writing and engineering documentation
Health, safety, and mining regulations


WHAT SKILLS, COMPETENCIES AND REQUIREMENTS (HARD AND SOFT) ARE ESSENTIAL FOR THIS ROLE?


Strong technical and analytical problem-solving skills
Equipment sizing and application engineering capability
Data analysis and interpretation skills
Technical presentation and communication skills
Customer relationship management skills
Commercial awareness and solution-selling mindset
Computer literacy including Microsoft Office and engineering software
Ability to work independently and manage multiple site activities
Ability to engage confidently with customers and technical stakeholders
Ability to analyse operational problems and recommend practical solutions
Ability to work in demanding mining and industrial environments
Ability to travel extensively to mine sites and customer operations
Ability to balance technical detail with commercial objectives