Chief Surveyor - Mining Operations

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Performance-based annual bonus

Health insurance

Retirement annuity

Life cover

Professional development support

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is sourcing a Chief Surveyor for a leading mining conglomerate near Bloemfontein, Free State. You will supervise all surveying activities, ensuring precise data for mine planning and operations while balancing field operations with data processing in an on-site/off-site hybrid setup.

The role requires 10+ years in mine surveying, with leadership experience and proficiency in GPS/GNSS, total stations, laser scanners, and drones, plus software like AutoCAD Civil 3D, Surpac, and Leica

Qualifications

• Bachelor or Diploma in Surveying/Geomatics.
• Professional registration (Pr.Surv) desirable.
• 10+ years in mine surveying with leadership experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all mine surveying activities (surface and underground).
• Conduct topographic, boundary, and volumetric surveys.
• Operate and maintain GPS/GNSS, total stations, laser scanners, and drones.
• Process survey data with AutoCAD Civil 3D, Surpac, Leica Infinity.
• Prepare and present survey reports and maps for mine planning.
• Ensure data accuracy for mine design, excavation control, and stockpile management.
• Collaborate with engineers, geologists, and operations teams.
• Maintain survey control networks and mentor junior staff.
• Ensure compliance with surveying standards and safety protocols.

Skills

Leadership

Mine surveying

GPS/GNSS

Total stations

Laser scanners

Drones

AutoCAD Civil 3D

Surpac

Leica Infinity

Data processing & reporting

Education

Bachelors or National Diploma in Surveying/Geomatics

Tools

AutoCAD Civil 3D

Surpac

Leica Infinity

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a progressive mining conglomerate focused on mineral resource development, is seeking a highly experienced Chief Surveyor to oversee all surveying operations at their facilities near Bloemfontein, Free State . This hybrid role will involve a combination of on-site work critical for field operations and data collection, along with office-based responsibilities for data processing, analysis, and reporting. You will be responsible for ensuring the accuracy and integrity of all spatial data related to mine planning, operations, and boundary management. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in mine surveying, including the use of advanced surveying equipment and software, and a strong understanding of mining regulations. This is a key leadership position responsible for maintaining precision and compliance in a demanding operational environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all mine surveying activities, including surface and underground operations.
• Conduct and supervise topographic surveys, boundary surveys, and volumetric calculations.
• Operate and maintain advanced surveying equipment, such as GPS/GNSS, total stations, laser scanners, and drones.
• Process and analyze survey data using specialized software (e.g., AutoCAD Civil 3D, Surpac, Leica Infinity).
• Prepare and present detailed survey reports, plans, and maps for mine planning and operational use.
• Ensure the accuracy of survey data used for mine design, excavation control, and stockpile management.
• Liaise with mine engineers, geologists, and operations personnel to provide essential spatial information.
• Implement and maintain survey control networks to ensure consistency and accuracy.
• Train and mentor junior surveyors and survey technicians.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant surveying standards, mining regulations, and safety protocols.

Requirements

• National Diploma or Bachelor's degree in Surveying, Geomatics, or a related field.
• Professional registration (e.g., Pr.Surv) is highly desirable.
• A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in mine surveying, with at least 3 years in a supervisory or leadership capacity.
• Proficiency in operating and managing a range of modern surveying instruments and software.
• Strong understanding of cadastral, topographical, and engineering surveying principles as applied to mining.
• Experience with 3D modeling and spatial data management.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and leadership abilities.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team in a hybrid work model.
• Willingness to work on-site as required, with potential for occasional travel.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and a performance-based annual bonus.
• Comprehensive health insurance, a retirement annuity, and life cover are provided.
• Significant opportunities for professional development, including advanced surveying courses and professional accreditation support, are available.
• Employees receive generous annual leave and paid public holidays.
• The company fosters a culture of safety, accuracy, and continuous improvement.

This hybrid role offers a balance between field operations and office-based analysis, providing a dynamic and rewarding career opportunity.