Chief Mining Engineer - Open Pit Operations

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 2,000,000 - 3,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive bonus

Company vehicle

Medical aid

Retirement plan

International assignments

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal seeks a Chief Mining Engineer to lead open-pit mining operations. This senior role focuses on strategy, design, safety, and environmental stewardship, guiding large-scale planning, budgeting, and execution across complex projects.

The ideal candidate has 15+ years in open-pit mining, Pr Eng registration preferred, and strong skills in stakeholder engagement, team leadership, and advanced planning tools such as Deswik, MinePlan, and Surpac.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mining Engineering required.
• Master’s degree advantageous.
• 15+ years in open-pit mining.
• Experience in large-scale planning and budgets.
• Pr Eng registration desired.

Responsibilities

• Develop long- and short-term open-pit mine plans.
• Oversee pit design, haul roads, waste dumps, and stockpiles.
• Manage mining fleet operations, scheduling and maintenance.
• Ensure safety and environmental compliance.
• Lead and mentor engineers and supervisors.
• Engage with regulators, contractors, and communities.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Communication

Stakeholder engagement

Decision making

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering

Master's degree

Tools

Deswik

MinePlan

Surpac

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized mining corporation, is seeking an accomplished and visionary Chief Mining Engineer to lead their open-pit operations in the vibrant coastal city of Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This senior leadership role is responsible for the strategic planning, design, and execution of all open-pit mining activities, ensuring safety, efficiency, and environmental stewardship. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in large-scale open-pit mine planning, operational management, and stakeholder engagement. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of mining for a leading organization, contributing to the development of significant mineral resources in a key economic hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement long-term and short-term mine plans for open-pit operations, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and resource models.
• Oversee all aspects of mine design, including pit geometry, haul roads, waste dumps, and stockpiles.
• Manage and optimize mining fleet operations, including scheduling, maintenance, and utilization.
• Ensure strict adherence to safety regulations, environmental standards, and operational best practices.
• Lead and mentor a team of mining engineers, surveyors, and operational supervisors.
• Conduct feasibility studies and economic evaluations for new projects and expansions.
• Manage relationships with key stakeholders, including regulatory bodies, contractors, and community representatives.
• Implement and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to track operational performance and identify areas for improvement.
• Oversee the procurement and deployment of mining equipment and technology.
• Champion innovation and the adoption of new mining technologies to enhance productivity and sustainability.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or a related discipline.
• A Master's degree is advantageous.
• A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in open-pit mining operations, with at least 7 years in a senior engineering or management role.
• Extensive knowledge of mine planning software (e.g., Deswik, MinePlan, Surpac) and simulation tools.
• Proven experience in managing large-scale mining operations, budgets, and diverse teams.
• Strong understanding of mine safety regulations, environmental impact assessments, and permitting processes in South Africa.
• Excellent leadership, strategic thinking, and decision-making abilities.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated experience in stakeholder engagement and management.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage complex operational challenges.
• Professional Engineer (Pr Eng) registration with ECSA is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers an executive-level compensation package, including a substantial annual bonus, company vehicle, comprehensive medical aid, and a top-tier retirement savings plan. Opportunities for international assignments and executive leadership training are provided. This role is based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, offering access to a thriving port city with a rich cultural heritage and beautiful natural surroundings.