Chief Mine Surveyor

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Accommodation provided

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Chief Mine Surveyor based in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. The role leads the surveying department, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and the effective use of geospatial technologies for planning, safety, and regulatory reporting.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelors in Surveying/Geomatics with PLS registration, 10+ years in mine surveying, including leadership, and hands-on experience with modern instruments and software. SA legislation knowledge is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Surveying or Geomatics is required.
• Professional registration as a PLS or equivalent is mandatory.
• Minimum 10 years in mine surveying with at least 4 years in supervisory/leadership roles.
• Extensive experience with modern surveying instruments and technologies (laser scanning, drones).

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor the mine surveying team with technical direction.
• Establish and maintain precise mine control networks (surface and underground).
• Perform volumetric calculations, ore reserve surveys and stope surveys.
• Ensure accurate mapping and updating of mine plans according to regulations.
• Operate and maintain surveying equipment (total stations, GPS/GNSS, laser scanners, drones).

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Project management

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelors in Surveying/Geomatics

Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) registration

Tools

Surpac

Deswik

AutoCAD Civil 3D

Total stations

GPS/GNSS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent mining operation in the Western Cape, is seeking an experienced and highly qualified Chief Mine Surveyor to lead their surveying department. Based in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, this senior role involves overseeing all aspects of mine surveying, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and the efficient application of geospatial technologies. The successful candidate will be responsible for establishing and maintaining mine control, monitoring underground and surface workings, and ensuring that all survey data accurately reflects the mine's physical state for planning, safety, and regulatory purposes. This is a challenging and rewarding opportunity to take on a leadership position within a well-established mining company committed to operational excellence and technological advancement.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the mine surveying team, providing technical direction and mentorship.
• Establish and maintain precise mine control networks (surface and underground).
• Conduct and supervise volumetric calculations, ore reserve surveys, and stope surveys.
• Ensure accurate mapping and updating of mine plans and sections according to legal requirements.
• Operate and maintain advanced surveying equipment, including total stations, GPS/GNSS systems, laser scanners, and drones.
• Utilize specialized mining software for data processing, analysis, and visualization (e.g., Surpac, Deswik, AutoCAD Civil 3D).
• Liaise with mining engineers, geologists, and management to provide essential survey data for mine planning and operations.
• Ensure compliance with all statutory surveying regulations and reporting requirements.
• Implement quality control procedures for all surveying activities.
• Maintain survey records and archives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification in Surveying or Geomatics.
• Professional registration as a Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) or equivalent is mandatory.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mine surveying, with at least 4 years in a supervisory or leadership role.
• Extensive experience with modern surveying instruments and technologies (e.g., laser scanning, drone surveying).
• Advanced proficiency in relevant mining and survey software packages.
• In-depth knowledge of South African mining legislation and surveying standards.
• Strong leadership, communication, and project management skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet strict deadlines.
• Attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy.
• Experience in both underground and open-pit surveying environments is preferred.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Leadership opportunity within a respected mining operation in Mossel Bay, Western Cape.
• Company-provided accommodation or housing allowance.
• Medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
• Performance bonuses and recognition.
• A commitment to safety, sustainability, and employee well-being.