Senior Mining Engineer - Underground Operations

Placements24; Willows (CA); On-site; USD 73,000 - 109,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Bonuses

Relocation assistance

Annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Senior Mining Engineer for a leading diversified mining group at their flagship underground mine near Welkom, Free State. The role focuses on safe, efficient planning and execution of underground hard-rock operations.

You will lead mine planning, development, scheduling, budgeting, and the supervision of mining engineers and crews, ensuring adherence to safety regulations, cost control, and continuous improvement. Experience with Deswik or Surpac is preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering is required.
• 8+ years in underground hard-rock mining with at least 3 years in a supervisory/senior role.
• Experience with underground mining methods (narrow-reef, shrinkage stoping, cut-and-fill).
• Proficiency with mine planning software and scheduling tools (Deswik, Surpac).
• Strong knowledge of mine safety legislation and best practices.
• Excellent leadership, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to relocate to or reside near Welkom, Free State.
• Professional registration (e.g., Pr.Eng) is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement short- and long-term mine plans, development schedules, and production targets.
• Oversee all aspects of underground mining operations (drilling, blasting, LHD, support services).
• Ensure safety regulations, hazard identification, and risk management are followed.
• Manage equipment utilization and maintenance strategies.
• Monitor performance against targets and implement corrective actions.
• Collaborate with geology, survey, and engineering teams for integrated planning.
• Supervise and mentor mining engineers, supervisors, and staff.
• Contribute to feasibility studies and economic assessments for new projects.
• Manage budgets and control costs.

Skills

Mining Engineering

Underground mining

Leadership

Project planning

Safety

Communication

Team supervision

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering

Tools

Deswik

Surpac

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading diversified mining group, is looking for a highly competent Senior Mining Engineer to manage and oversee underground operations at their flagship mine in Welkom, Free State . This role is central to ensuring the safe, efficient, and cost-effective extraction of gold and associated minerals. The Senior Mining Engineer will be responsible for mine planning, development, production scheduling, and operational execution, adhering to the highest standards of safety and environmental stewardship. This position requires extensive experience in underground hard-rock mining, a deep understanding of mining methodologies, and exceptional leadership qualities. You will be a key member of the mine's senior management team, contributing to strategic decision-making.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement short-term and long-term mine plans, including stope sequencing, development schedules, and production targets.
• Oversee all aspects of underground mining operations, including drilling, blasting, LHD operations, and support services.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety regulations, hazard identification, and risk management protocols.
• Manage and optimize mining equipment utilization and maintenance strategies.
• Monitor production performance against targets and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Collaborate with geological, survey, and engineering departments to ensure integrated mine planning and execution.
• Supervise and mentor a team of mining engineers, supervisors, and operational staff.
• Conduct feasibility studies and economic assessments for new mining projects or expansions.
• Manage operational budgets and control costs effectively.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity and safety.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering from an accredited institution.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in underground hard-rock mining operations, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or senior engineering role.
• Demonstrated experience with various underground mining methods (e.g., narrow-reef, shrinkage stoping, cut-and-fill).
• Proficiency in mine planning software (e.g., Deswik, Surpac) and scheduling tools.
• Strong knowledge of mine safety legislation and best practices.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a challenging underground environment.
• Experience with financial management and cost control in mining operations.
• Must be willing to relocate to or reside within commuting distance of Welkom, Free State .
• A professional registration (e.g., Pr.Eng) is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, and a robust retirement fund.
• Performance-based bonuses are a significant component of the compensation package.
• Opportunities for professional development, advanced training, and career progression within the group are extensive.
• The company provides generous annual leave and promotes a healthy work-life balance.
• Relocation assistance will be provided to successful candidates moving to Welkom .