Engineers can perform many different roles in their career. We have outlined some of the things that you will be doing at AMEC Minproc in the different disciplines and roles within engineering, from initial process requirements and design through to hand over to clients.

Process / Chemical Engineering
Process engineering is at the core of resource projects and is the selection and definition of the most efficient processing option. Process engineers are involved at all stages of design, from concept through to commissioning. Major roles include understanding the mineral resource, test work design and supervision, definition of process design criteria, process selection and development, definition of operating costs, equipment evaluation, and communication of the process design intent to all other engineering disciplines. Process Engineers also complete other assignments such as de-bottlenecking programs, process optimization at existing operations, technical audits and training of plant personnel.

Mechanical engineering
Mechanical engineering looks at the overall optimal design, including layout for the most efficient and economic plants.  As a part of the overall design process, you will also assess equipment options and the design of that equipment or components.  This means you will be doing some calculations in fluid mechanics, thermodynamics as well as materials handling.

Civil / structural engineering
In addition to looking at the overall optimal design, civil structural engineering involves assessing the earthworks, concrete, structural and building requirements for process equipment at plants.  Design of the earthworks, concrete and structures are a major part of a civil structural engineer’s responsibility, as is the assessment and selection of supplier and contractor tenders.

Electrical, instrumentation and control engineering
This aspect of engineering looks at the overall optimal electrical, instrumentation and control system design. The design process involves assessing the required electrical and control as well as specifying these requirements for purchase.  Component selection is another element of electrical, instrumentation and control engineering as well as calculations for electrical load and protection among others.

Design supervision
The involvement in the detail design models in 3D and 2D drawings for projects is also an important part of all our engineers' responsibilities.  They supervise the design work, review and coordinate input from various other disciplines and approve the final product.

Project engineering
Our engineers have the opportunity to work in the field of project management and learn leadership skills as well as team management, scheduling, budget preparation and cost control. We strive to encourage our young engineers to become project managers if they wish, and ensure that they are mentored and supported.

Construction supervision
The role of a construction supervisor is a critical on-site role. As construction supervisor, you will be required to resolve issues and proactively ensure construction work continues on budget and on schedule.  Another aspect of the role includes ensuring the quality of construction work is of the highest level.

Commissioning
Commissioning is one of the most rewarding experiences on a project as you get to see all the hard work of design and construction put to use.  As part of the handover of the plant to our clients, our engineers are heavily involved in pre-startup testing and checks, as well as the start up of the actual process plants. Considered the ‘pointy end’ of construction, commissioning includes the optimisation of the design and adjustments and modifications to ensure we deliver a plant that meets its design/operational capability.