Chief Mine Engineer - Underground Operations

Placements24; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Significant bonus

Medical aid

Pension fund

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24, on behalf of a global leader in resource extraction, seeks a Chief Mine Engineer to lead underground mining operations in Pretoria, Gauteng. You will oversee mine planning, development, production, and continuous improvement to ensure safety, reliability and cost efficiency.

This executive role requires 15+ years in underground mining, with at least 7 years in a senior management position. Proficiency in Deswik, Vulcan and Surpac is essential.

Qualifications

• Minimum 15 years of progressive experience in underground mining operations.
• At least 7 years in a senior management or leadership role.
• Proven track record with large-scale underground mining projects.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement long- and short-term underground mine plans aligned with objectives.
• Oversee production: drilling, blasting, loading, hauling, and ground support.
• Lead the mine engineering team with mentorship and performance management.
• Ensure safety, health, environment, and regulatory compliance with zero-harm culture.
• Manage the operating budget and identify efficiency improvements.
• Evaluate and deploy new mining technologies to boost productivity.
• Collaborate with geologists, metallurgists, and maintenance to optimize recovery.
• Conduct regular mine inspections and audits to ensure safety and integrity.
• Report performance, capex, and strategic initiatives to senior management.

Skills

Mine planning

Underground mining

Leadership

Strategic planning

Stakeholder management

Education

BSc/BEng in Mining Engineering

Tools

Deswik

Vulcan

Surpac

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a global leader in resource extraction, is seeking a highly accomplished and strategic Chief Mine Engineer to lead and manage all aspects of their underground mining operations in Pretoria, Gauteng . This senior leadership position is responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and cost-effective extraction of mineral resources, adhering to the highest industry standards. The Chief Mine Engineer will oversee mine planning, development, production, and continuous improvement initiatives. You will be a key member of the senior management team, driving innovation and fostering a culture of operational excellence and safety. This role demands a visionary leader with extensive experience in complex underground mining environments. Join a company committed to sustainable practices and technological advancement in the heart of Pretoria 's industrial landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive long-term and short-term mine plans for underground operations, ensuring alignment with corporate objectives.
• Oversee all aspects of mine production, including drilling, blasting, loading, hauling, and ground support.
• Manage the mine engineering team, providing technical guidance, mentorship, and performance management.
• Ensure compliance with all safety, health, environmental, and regulatory standards, fostering a zero-harm culture.
• Develop and manage the mine operating budget, controlling costs and identifying opportunities for efficiency improvements.
• Lead the evaluation and implementation of new mining technologies and methodologies to enhance productivity and sustainability.
• Collaborate with geological, metallurgical, and maintenance departments to optimize resource recovery and operational performance.
• Conduct regular mine inspections and audits to ensure operational integrity and identify potential risks.
• Report on mine operational performance, capital expenditures, and strategic initiatives to senior management.

Requirements

• BSc or BEng in Mining Engineering from an accredited institution.
• A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in underground mining operations, with at least 7 years in a senior management or leadership role.
• Demonstrated expertise in mine planning software (e.g., Deswik, Vulcan, Surpac) and production management systems.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale underground mining projects and operations.
• In-depth knowledge of various underground mining methods (e.g., sublevel caving, narrow-reef mining).
• Strong understanding of mine ventilation, dewatering, and ground control principles.
• Excellent leadership, strategic planning, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management abilities.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) designation is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive executive compensation package, including a significant bonus structure, comprehensive medical aid, a top-tier pension fund, and relocation assistance.
• This position provides substantial opportunities for professional growth and leadership development within a globally recognized organization.
• The role is based at our major operational hub in Pretoria, Gauteng , offering exposure to cutting-edge technology and large-scale projects within the dynamic Mining sector.