Chief Mine Planner - Open Pit Operations

Placements24; Bellville; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive bonuses

Long-term incentives

Health benefits

Retirement plan

Relocation assistance

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a strategic and visionary Chief Mine Planner to lead the mine planning department for open-pit operations near Centurion, Gauteng. This senior leadership role requires extensive experience in long-term and short-term mine planning, resource optimization, and safety and environmental compliance.

You will develop and implement comprehensive mine plans, guide a planning team, and leverage Deswik, Vulcan, or XACT to maximize value.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's in Mining Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years in mine planning with leadership experience.

Responsibilities

• Develop and oversee strategic long-term mine plans (5+ years).
• Create and manage short-term operational plans (daily, weekly, monthly).
• Optimize mine sequencing, pit designs, and scheduling to maximize economic value.
• Conduct feasibility studies and economic evaluations for new projects.
• Collaborate with geological, engineering, and operations teams to ensure plan integration.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the mine planning team.
• Evaluate and implement new mine planning technologies and software.
• Prepare detailed reports for senior management and stakeholders.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Stakeholder management

Excellent communication

Safety & regulatory compliance

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mining Engineering

Tools

Deswik

Vulcan

XACT

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for a strategic and visionary Chief Mine Planner to lead the mine planning department for their open-pit operations near Centurion, Gauteng . This senior leadership role requires extensive experience in long-term and short-term mine planning, resource optimization, and strategic development. The Chief Mine Planner will be responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive mine plans that ensure efficient resource extraction, cost-effectiveness, and compliance with safety and environmental standards. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of our mining operations and drive innovation in planning methodologies. The ideal candidate possesses strong leadership capabilities, exceptional technical expertise in mine planning software, and a deep understanding of open-pit mining dynamics.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and oversee the execution of strategic long-term mine plans (5+ years).
• Create and manage short-term operational plans (daily, weekly, monthly).
• Optimize mine sequencing, pit designs, and scheduling to maximize economic value.
• Conduct feasibility studies and economic evaluations for new projects and expansions.
• Collaborate with geological, engineering, and operational teams to ensure plan integration.
• Manage the mine planning budget and resources effectively.
• Ensure adherence to all regulatory, safety, and environmental requirements in mine plans.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the mine planning team.
• Evaluate and implement new mine planning technologies and software.
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations for senior management and stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mining Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mine planning, with at least 5 years in a leadership role within open-pit mining.
• Advanced proficiency in mine planning software such as Deswik, Vulcan, or XACT.
• Strong understanding of mine economics, resource modeling, and optimization techniques.
• Proven experience in strategic mine development and operational execution.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage complex projects and multiple priorities.
• Experience with environmental impact assessments and regulatory compliance.
• Valid driver's license.
• Strong commitment to safety, sustainability, and ethical practices.

Benefits

• We offer a highly competitive salary package, including executive-level bonuses and long-term incentives.
• Comprehensive health, retirement, and insurance benefits are provided.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development, including attendance at international conferences and specialized training, are a key part of our commitment to employee growth.
• This role offers a hybrid work arrangement, balancing remote flexibility with necessary on-site engagement at our operations near Centurion, Gauteng .
• A generous leave allowance and relocation support are also available.
• Join a forward-thinking company that values innovation and employee well-being.