Chief Mining Engineer - Surface Operations

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 2,000,000 - 3,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation

Comprehensive benefits

Relocation assistance

Housing allowance

Career growth

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Chief Mining Engineer to lead surface mining operations in the Mossel Bay region. This executive role focuses on strategic planning, technical direction, and execution of all surface mining activities to optimize resources, safety, and environmental compliance.

You will mentor a mining engineering team, oversee mine planning and design, and drive continuous improvement while ensuring regulatory adherence and cost efficiency.

Qualifications

• Bachelor-level degree in Mining Engineering required.
• Minimum 15 years in mining engineering and operations, with 8+ years in leadership.
• Expertise in open-pit planning, design, and optimization using advanced software.
• Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and financial acumen in mining.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement long-term plans for surface mine development.
• Oversee mine planning, design, production, and closure for surface operations.
• Manage and mentor the mining engineering team for high performance.
• Ensure compliance with mining regulations, safety standards, and environmental laws.
• Drive improvements to productivity, efficiency, and cost control.
• Approve mine designs, production schedules, and capex proposals.
• Provide technical guidance to senior management on surface mining.

Skills

Leadership

Mine planning

Strategic thinking

Budgeting

Education

BSc/BEng Mining Engineering

Masters or MBA (advantage)

Tools

Open-pit planning software

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Chief Mining Engineer to lead their surface mining operations in the Mossel Bay region. This executive-level position is responsible for the strategic planning, technical direction, and overall execution of all surface mining activities, ensuring optimal resource extraction, operational efficiency, and adherence to the highest safety and environmental standards. You will manage a team of engineers and technical staff, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation within the operations department. This is a pivotal role for an accomplished mining leader seeking to make a significant impact on a key operation in the Western Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement long-term strategic plans for surface mine development and operations.
• Oversee all aspects of mine planning, design, production, and closure for surface mining activities.
• Manage and mentor the mining engineering team, ensuring professional development and high performance.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable mining regulations, safety standards, and environmental legislation.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency, productivity, and cost-effectiveness.
• Approve mine designs, production schedules, and capital expenditure proposals related to surface operations.
• Act as a key technical advisor to senior management on all matters related to surface mining.

Requirements

• BSc or BEng in Mining Engineering.
• A Master's degree or MBA is highly advantageous.
• Minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in mining engineering and operations management, with at least 8 years in leadership roles overseeing surface mining.
• Proven expertise in open-pit mine planning, design, and optimization techniques using advanced software.
• Demonstrated success in managing large-scale mining projects and operations.
• Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and decision-making capabilities.
• Excellent understanding of financial management, budgeting, and cost control in a mining context.

Benefits

• Executive-level compensation package, including base salary, significant bonuses, and long-term incentives.
• Comprehensive benefits including top-tier medical, retirement, and life insurance.
• Relocation assistance and housing allowance provided.
• Significant opportunities for career growth and influence within the organization.
• Leadership of key surface mining operations in the scenic Mossel Bay area.