Senior Mining Engineer - Underground Operations

Placements24; Kimberley; On-site; CAD 103,000 - 241,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24, on behalf of a leading mining conglomerate, seeks a Senior Mining Engineer to oversee underground operations in Kimberley, Northern Cape. You will lead mine planning and production management with a strong safety focus.

Responsibilities include supervising a team, drilling, blasting, loading and hauling, reporting production forecasts, and delivering cost improvements while ensuring compliance with health and environmental regulations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering from an accredited institution.
• Minimum 10 years in underground mining with 5+ years supervisory experience.
• Experience with various underground mining methods (e.g., cut and fill, shrinkage, sub-level caving) and mine planning software.

Responsibilities

• Develop and manage detailed mine plans for underground operations.
• Oversee daily drilling, blasting, loading and hauling to maximize efficiency.
• Ensure safety, health, and environmental compliance and foster safety culture.
• Lead shift supervisors, engineers, and operation staff.
• Prepare production forecasts, cost analyses and safety metrics.
• Support feasibility studies and capital projects for new development.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Safety & compliance

Analytical thinking

Communication

Team management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering

Tools

Deswik

Surpac

Ventsim

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a reputable mining conglomerate with a strong presence in South Africa, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Mining Engineer to oversee and optimize underground mining operations in the Kimberley, Northern Cape area. This vital role demands a deep understanding of underground mining methodologies, mine planning, production management, and safety protocols. You will be responsible for leading a team of mining professionals, ensuring efficient extraction, resource management, and the highest standards of operational safety and environmental compliance. The ideal candidate will possess a proven track record in managing complex underground mining projects and a strong commitment to innovation and best practices. This position requires dedicated on-site presence to effectively manage operations in the Kimberley region.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage comprehensive mine plans for underground operations, ensuring alignment with production targets and resource management strategies.
• Oversee daily mining activities, including drilling, blasting, loading, and hauling, to maximize efficiency and productivity.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and environmental regulations, fostering a strong safety culture within the mining team.
• Manage and mentor a team of shift supervisors, engineers, and other operational personnel.
• Conduct regular site inspections and performance reviews to identify opportunities for operational improvements and cost reductions.
• Oversee the maintenance and effective utilization of mining equipment and machinery.
• Collaborate with geological and metallurgical teams to optimize ore extraction and processing.
• Prepare detailed operational reports, including production forecasts, cost analyses, and safety performance metrics.
• Contribute to feasibility studies and capital expenditure proposals for new underground development projects.
• Implement new technologies and innovative techniques to improve mining efficiency and sustainability.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or a related discipline from an accredited institution.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in underground mining operations, with at least 5 years in a supervisory or senior engineering role.
• Proven experience with various underground mining methods (e.g., cut and fill, shrinkage, sub-level caving).
• Strong knowledge of mine planning software (e.g., Deswik, Surpac, Ventsim) and production management systems.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management capabilities.
• In-depth understanding of mine safety regulations and best practices.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively engage with all levels of staff and stakeholders.
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr Eng) or equivalent professional certification is highly desirable.
• Willingness to work full-time on-site in the Kimberley, Northern Cape area, including periodic shifts and extended field time.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly attractive salary package, significant bonus potential tied to production and safety targets, comprehensive medical aid, a generous retirement fund, and relocation assistance. Excellent opportunities for professional development, continuous training, and career advancement within a leading mining organization are provided. You will work in a challenging yet rewarding environment, contributing to the extraction of valuable resources and ensuring operational excellence in the Kimberley region. Our client is committed to responsible mining and fostering a supportive work culture.