Asset Maintenance Engineer

First Quantum Minerals Ltd; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading minerals company in Johannesburg seeks an Asset Maintenance Engineer to oversee maintenance strategies and improve asset reliability. The role requires at least 5 years of experience in mining and engineering, focusing on process optimization, quality assurance, and cost control. You will lead a team, implement engineering enhancements, and prepare detailed performance reports, contributing significantly to operational goals while ensuring safety and quality standards are maintained.

Qualifications

• At least 5 years' maintenance experience in the mining/mineral processing industry.
• Demonstrated experience with engineering processes development.
• Proficiency in quality management systems.

Responsibilities

• Optimize engineering processes for improved reliability.
• Supervise maintenance strategy development.
• Prepare detailed reports on performance and efficiency.

Skills

Process optimization

Data analysis

Team leadership

Quality management

Root cause analysis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

Microsoft Office

Power BI

Job description

We're a team of self-starting entrepreneurs providing one of the foundational materials of our society.

Where could a career with First Quantum take you?

Our diversity of career opportunities is extensive and impressive.

Hear from our people in their own words in : More to Mining : the diverse roles of First Quantum.

If you don't see anything that is right for you and want to be kept in mind for future opportunities, send your CV and a cover letter to

Overall Job Purpose

The Asset Maintenance Engineer supports and oversees various aspects of maintenance and improvement opportunities to ensure the efficient and reliable availability of assets. This role involves working with engineers at operational sites to collaborate, optimise processes, troubleshoot issues, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. Key responsibilities include engineering optimisation, equipment maintenance strategy development, safety compliance, and fostering innovation to enhance asset performance. The role plays a pivotal part in achieving the operational goals of the sites whilst adhering to quality, safety, and environmental standards.

Specific Job Responsibility

Process Optimization

• Lead efforts to optimize engineering processes to increase reliability throughout the region
• Analyze data and performance metrics to identify opportunities for improvement.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement engineering enhancements and monitor their impact.

Equipment Maintenance and Reliability

• Oversee maintenance strategy development for equipment machinery within the process plant and the HME fleet.
• Support the development and execution of preventive maintenance plans and Asset Management systems to minimize downtime and extend equipment lifespan.
• Coordinate with maintenance teams to troubleshoot and address equipment failures promptly.

Quality Assurance

• Maintain quality control for engineering processes and standards throughout the region.
• Monitor quality through inspections, testing, and reviews as needed.
• Implement corrective actions to address deviations from quality standards.

Cost Control

• Identify cost‑saving opportunities and implement cost‑effective measures without compromising product quality or safety.

Team Leadership and Development

• Supervise and mentor operational engineers, technicians, and operators in engineering processes and practices.
• Provide guidance, training, and support for professional development of engineers.
• Foster a collaborative and high‑performance work environment.
• Lead continuous improvement projects, such as Six Sigma or Lean initiatives, to enhance plant performances.
• Identify and prioritize opportunities for engineering innovation and reliability gains.

Documentation and Reporting

• Maintain accurate records of reliability data, equipment maintenance, and safety compliance.
• Prepare detailed reports on plant performance, efficiency improvements, and safety metrics for management and regulatory purposes.

Experience required to perform in this job

• At least 5 years' maintenance experience in the mining / mineral processing industry
• At least 5 years' engineering experience in the mining / mineral processing industry
• Demonstrated experience with development and use of engineering processes
• Demonstrated experience in the development of reports and KPIs
• Demonstrated experience in RCA reviews and asset strategy optimization
• Microsoft Office knowledge and skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)

Power BI skills and knowledge

• Demonstrated skill in verbal and written communications, planning and organizing

Qualifications

• A Bachelor's degree in Engineering, or closely related discipline (mechanical focus preferred)

Job Specific Competencies

Engineering Optimization

• Expertise in optimizing engineering processes to improve efficiency, reliability and costs.

Process Control

• Proficiency in process control systems, instrumentation, and data analysis to maintain consistent and controlled operations.

Equipment Maintenance

• Skill in managing equipment maintenance programs, including preventive and predictive maintenance strategies.

Root Cause Analysis

• Ability to conduct root cause analysis for equipment failures and implement corrective actions.

Reliability Engineering

• Knowledge of reliability engineering concepts to enhance equipment reliability and minimize downtime.

Quality Management

• Proficiency in quality management systems (e.g., ISO ) and quality control processes.

Lean Manufacturing

• Knowledge of Lean principles and tools for process improvement.

Inventory Management

• Skill in managing inventory levels and ensuring material availability.

Leadership Skills

• Ability to lead and motivate teams, set goals, and foster a collaborative work environment.

Continuous Improvement Methodologies

• Proficiency in continuous improvement methodologies such as Six Sigma or Kaizen.

Data Analysis Tools

• Skill in using data analysis software and tools to extract insights from process data.

Report Writing

• Ability to prepare detailed reports on plant performance, efficiency gains, and safety metrics.

Vendor Relations

• Skill in managing relationships with equipment suppliers, vendors, and service providers.

Supplier Evaluation

• Ability to evaluate and select suppliers for materials and services that support plant operations.

Team Leadership

• Ability to lead and motivate a team of engineers, technicians, and operators.

Decision-Making

• Capable of making sound decisions, especially in high-pressure situations.

Analytical Thinking

• Proficiency in analysing complex problems and identifying effective solutions.

Creativity

• Ability to think creatively and innovate to address challenges and improve processes.

Effective Communication

• Strong verbal and written communication skills to convey ideas, reports, and safety procedures clearly to plant personnel.

Collaboration

• Ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and departments.

Meticulousness

• Being meticulous in data collection, equipment inspection, and analysis to ensure accuracy and quality.

Quality Focus

• An unwavering commitment to maintaining product quality and process standards.

Flexibility

• Ability to adapt to changing equipment conditions, technologies, and industry standards.

Resilience

• Capacity to handle challenges and setbacks with resilience and a positive attitude.

Continuous Learning

• Willingness to stay updated with the latest advancements in process plant technologies and maintenance practices.

Proactive Engagement

• Engagement in identifying potential issues and opportunities for improvement.

Ownership

• Taking ownership of tasks and responsibilities, and driving initiatives forward.

Effective Time Management

• Necessary for balancing multiple tasks, prioritising activities, and meeting deadlines in a fast‑paced environment.

Customer-Centric

• An orientation toward understanding and meeting the needs of internal or external customers, ensuring product quality and delivery align with customer expectations.

Ethical Standards

• Upholding ethical standards and maintaining the highest level of integrity in all professional interactions and decision-making.

Independence

• The capacity to work independently, take ownership of tasks, and make informed decisions while still being part of a team when necessary.

Commitment to Improvement

• A commitment to seeking continuous improvement and driving innovation to enhance plant performance.