Chief Surveyor - Underground Mining Operations

Placements24; Welkom; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Housing allowance or company-provided

Comprehensive medical aid

Retirement benefits

Annual bonus

Job summary

Placements24 in Welkom, SA, seeks a Chief Surveyor to oversee all underground surveying activities. You will lead a team of surveyors, implement advanced surveying technologies, and ensure accuracy and regulatory compliance for mining operations.

The role focuses on spatial data integrity, mine development control, and reporting, with collaboration across planning, engineering, and geology teams to support safe and efficient operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Surveying or Geospatial Science required.
• Professional SAGC registration or equivalent preferred.
• Minimum 10 years in mine surveying with 5+ in a supervisory/chief role.

Responsibilities

• Manage underground and surface surveying operations with accuracy and efficiency.
• Develop and implement surveying plans, procedures and QC systems.
• Oversee collection and management of spatial data for survey control and mine workings.
• Use total stations, GPS, laser scanners and 3D modeling software for mine modeling and design verification.
• Ensure precise demarcation of mining boundaries, headings and stoping areas.
• Collaborate with mine planning, engineering and geology to provide survey data for decisions.
• Train and supervise junior surveyors and survey technicians.
• Maintain compliance with SA mining regulations and safety standards.
• Maintain calibration and service readiness of survey equipment.
• Conduct regular site inspections to verify survey work in Welkom operations.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Project management

Regulatory compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Surveying or Geospatial Science

Tools

Surpac

Minex

AutoCAD

Leapfrog

Total Station

GPS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major mining conglomerate with extensive operations in the Welkom, Free State , is seeking to appoint a highly experienced Chief Surveyor to oversee all surveying activities for their underground mining operations. This senior position is responsible for ensuring the accuracy and integrity of all spatial data, mine development control, and reporting. The Chief Surveyor will lead a team of qualified surveyors, implement advanced surveying technologies, and maintain strict adherence to regulatory requirements and safety standards. This is a key leadership role offering significant responsibility and the opportunity to influence operational efficiency and safety through precise spatial management. We are dedicated to maintaining the highest standards in our operations and are looking for a leader who shares this vision. The role is based in Welkom , a region with a rich mining heritage, offering a stable and conducive environment for professionals and their families.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and direct all underground and surface surveying operations, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
• Develop and implement comprehensive surveying plans, procedures, and quality control systems.
• Oversee the collection, processing, and management of all spatial data, including survey control, mine workings, and infrastructure.
• Utilize advanced surveying instruments and software (e.g., total stations, GPS, laser scanners, 3D modeling software) for mine modeling and design verification.
• Ensure precise demarcation of mining boundaries, development headings, and stoping areas.
• Collaborate with mine planning, engineering, and geology departments to provide essential survey data for operational decision-making.
• Train, mentor, and supervise junior surveyors and survey technicians.
• Ensure compliance with all South African mining regulations and legal requirements related to surveying.
• Maintain survey equipment and ensure its calibration and proper functioning.
• Conduct regular site inspections to verify survey work and ensure adherence to standards in the Free State operations.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Surveying or a relevant Geospatial Science qualification.
• Professional registration with the South African Geomatics Council (SAGC) or equivalent.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mine surveying, with at least 5 years in a supervisory or chief role, preferably in underground mining.
• Extensive experience with underground surveying techniques, including traversing, leveling, and setting out.
• Proficiency in mine surveying software packages (e.g., Surpac, Minex, AutoCAD, Leapfrog) and total station/GPS data processing.
• Strong understanding of geological structures and mine designs.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines in the Welkom environment.
• Commitment to promoting a strong safety culture within the survey department.

Benefits

• A leading salary package reflective of the seniority and responsibility of the role.
• Comprehensive medical aid, life insurance, and retirement annuity benefits.
• Housing allowance or company-provided accommodation in Welkom .
• Opportunities for continuous professional development and advanced training.
• Exposure to cutting-edge surveying technologies and methodologies.
• A stable and reputable employer with a strong focus on employee welfare.
• Annual bonus structure based on company and individual performance.