Geologist - Coal Mining

Ikwezi Mining (Pty) Ltd; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

Ikwezi Mining (Pty) Ltd is seeking a senior geologist with expertise in limestone geology to conduct field surveys, analyze samples, and delineate formations. You will collaborate with mining engineers to plan efficient extraction while ensuring safety, environmental compliance, and data-driven decision making.

The role requires advanced degrees and at least 5 years of field experience in diverse geological settings.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Geology, Geological Engineering, or a related field
• 5 years experience in conducting fieldwork in diverse geological settings and challenging environments
• Strong knowledge of sedimentary geology, with a focus on carbonate rocks, including limestone
• Proficiency in geological mapping techniques, GIS software, and geological modeling tools

Responsibilities

• Conduct geological surveys and field investigations to locate and characterize limestone deposits
• Analyze rock samples to determine their mineral composition, physical properties, and suitability for various industrial applications
• Utilize geological mapping techniques to delineate limestone formations and interpret their geological history
• Collaborate with mining engineers and other professionals to develop strategies for efficient limestone extraction
• Evaluate the economic viability of limestone reserves through cost-benefit analysis and market research
• Monitor mining activities to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and best practices
• Provide expert advice on geological hazards to mitigate risks during construction and development projects
• Contribute to research projects and scientific publications to advance limestone geology knowledge
• Stay abreast of advancements in surveying and data analysis tools to enhance efficiency and accuracy

Skills

Geology

Sedimentary geology

Geological mapping

GIS software

Geological modeling

Field experience

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Geology

Master's degree in Geology/Geological Engineering

Ph.D. in Geology or related field

Tools

GIS software

Geological modeling tools

Job description

• Conduct geological surveys and field investigations to locate and characterize limestone deposits
• Analyze rock samples to determine their mineral composition, physical properties, and suitability for various industrial applications
• Utilize geological mapping techniques to delineate limestone formations and interpret their geological history
• Collaborate with mining engineers and other professionals to develop strategies for efficient limestone extraction
• Evaluate the economic viability of limestone reserves through cost-benefit analysis and market research
• Monitor mining activities to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and best practices
• Provide expert advice on geological hazards, such as ground stability issues and karst formations, to mitigate risks during construction and development projects
• Contribute to research projects and scientific publications to advance the understanding of limestone geology and related fields
• Stay abreast of technological advancements in geological surveying and data analysis tools to enhance efficiency and accuracy in research and exploration efforts
• Communicate findings and recommendations effectively through reports, presentations, and meetings with stakeholders, including government agencies, industry partners, and community members
• Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Geology, Geological Engineering, or a related field
• Strong knowledge of sedimentary geology, with a focus on carbonate rocks, including limestone
• Proficiency in geological mapping techniques, GIS software, and geological modeling tools
• 5 years experience in conducting fieldwork in diverse geological settings and challenging environments
• Excellent analytical skills and attention to detail in interpreting geological data and conducting geological surveys
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams
• Effectively conveying complex geological concepts to diverse audiences
• Commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and ethical practices in geological research and resource development

Key Responsibilities

Blasting Operations

• Perform drilling and blasting activities according to approved blast plans and safety protocols
• Operate drilling equipment to create blast holes of specified dimensions and angles
• Load explosives into blast holes using proper charging techniques and equipment
• Ensure the proper placement and stemming of explosives to achieve desired fragmentation and minimize flyrock

Safety Compliance

• Adhere to all safety regulations, procedures, and best practices to mitigate risks associated with blasting operations
• Conduct pre-blast safety inspections and risk assessments to identify and address potential hazards
• Implement measures to control blast vibrations, air overpressure, and flyrock to protect personnel, equipment, and nearby structures
• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) and safety devices as required to maintain a safe working environment

Equipment Maintenance

• Perform routine maintenance and inspections on drilling and blasting equipment to ensure optimal performance and reliability
• Report any equipment malfunctions or defects to the maintenance team for timely repairs
• Maintain an inventory of explosives, detonators, and other blasting consumables and request replenishment as needed

Communication and Coordination

• Collaborate with the Manager and other team members to coordinate blasting activities with mine production schedules
• Communicate effectively with drillers, supervisors, and support staff to ensure smooth and efficient operations
• Provide clear instructions to blasting assistants and helpers to facilitate safe and productive work practices

Environmental Stewardship

• Implement measures to minimize environmental impact, such as dust suppression, erosion control, and water management
• Comply with environmental regulations and company policies related to blasting operations
• Participate in environmental monitoring activities and report any deviations or incidents to the appropriate authorities

Minimum requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Certification as a Blaster (Opencast)
• 3 to 5 years experience in drilling and blasting operations in Coal Mining
• Knowledge of blasting techniques, explosives safety, and regulatory requirements
• Ability to operate drilling equipment and blasting accessories safely and effectively
• Physical stamina and strength to perform manual tasks in a challenging work environment
• A valid drivers licence and own reliable vehicle

• Monitor and manage coal stockpiles to ensure accurate segregation of different coal
• qualities and prevent contamination or dilution of product
• Oversee the correct stacking, reclaiming, and blending of coal to meet product specifications and customer requirements
• Track stockpile volumes, qualities and movements, ensuring alignment between survey data, production figures, and reported tonnages
• Implement and maintain effective stockpile reconciliation practices between pit, plant, and dispatch to minimize losses and discrepancies
• Conduct routine inspections of stockpiles to identify risks such as oxidation, spontaneous combustion, or moisture variation, and implement mitigation measures
• Collaborate with mine planning, production, and plant teams to optimize stockpile utilization and blending strategies
• Ensure compliance with site procedures and best practices related to stockpile management, safety, and environmental standards

Coal Stockpile Management

• Monitor and manage coal stockpiles to ensure accurate segregation of different coal
• qualities and prevent contamination or dilution of product
• Oversee the correct stacking, reclaiming, and blending of coal to meet product specifications and customer requirements
• Track stockpile volumes, qualities and movements, ensuring alignment between survey data, production figures, and reported tonnages
• Implement and maintain effective stockpile reconciliation practices between pit, plant, and dispatch to minimize losses and discrepancies
• Conduct routine inspections of stockpiles to identify risks such as oxidation, spontaneous combustion, or moisture variation, and implement mitigation measures
• Collaborate with mine planning, production, and plant teams to optimize stockpile utilization and blending strategies
• Ensure compliance with site procedures and best practices related to stockpile management, safety, and environmental standards

Coal Grade Monitoring

• Continuously monitor the coal quality throughout the mining process, including during extraction, processing, and transportation
• Ensure that the extracted coal meets required grade specifications and that any deviations are identified and addressed promptly
• Ensure minimal mining losses and coal dilution

Sampling and Testing

• Oversee the collection of coal samples from various points in the mining and processing chain
• Supervise or conduct laboratory tests on coal samples to determine parameters such as ash content, calorific value, moisture levels, sulfur content, and other relevant grade indicators
• Record and analyze test results, providing feedback to the mining operations team

Data Management and Reporting

• Maintain accurate records of coal quality, production data, and test results
• Prepare and submit detailed reports on coal grade trends, quality issues, and production performance to senior management
• Ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations regarding coal grading

Grade Control Optimization

• Identify areas for improvement in coal grade control processes and propose solutions to optimize coal quality and reduce waste
• Work closely with the mining engineers and geologists to adjust the mining strategy based on coal grade variability

Quality Assurance

• Collaborate with the production and processing teams to ensure that all quality assurance protocols are followed
• Conduct regular audits of processes, materials, and equipment to ensure compliance with the grade specifications

Stakeholder Communication

• Communicate effectively with internal stakeholders, such as mining teams, engineers, and plant operators, regarding coal quality concerns and corrective actions
• Provide technical support and advice on coal blending strategies and quality improvements

Health, Safety, and Environmental Compliance

• Ensure all grade control activities are conducted safely, adhering to company health, safety, and environmental standards
• Participate in safety meetings and audits and implement corrective actions where necessary

Minimum Requirements

• A degree or diploma in Mining Engineering, Geology, or a related field
• Additional certifications in Quality Control or relevant mining operations are a plus
• Minimum 3-5 years of experience in coal mining, with a focus on grade control, quality management, or related areas
• Practical experience in coal sampling, testing, and grade optimization is essential
• Knowledge of coal processing, blending, and quality analysis procedures
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret and report coal quality data
• Proficiency in using mining and laboratory software for data collection and analysis
• In-depth understanding of coal quality parameters and their impact on mining operations and customer satisfaction
• Good communication skills to interact with teams, stakeholders, and management
• Strong problem-solving abilities to address quality-related issues effectively
• Understanding of mining industry health, safety, and environmental regulations
• Ability to apply safety practices during coal extraction and processing
• Build and maintain positive relationships with surrounding communities and community structures.
• Act as the primary point of contact between the mine and local community representatives.
• Conduct regular community engagements, meetings and consultations.
• Identify and escalate community concerns, disputes and potential areas of conflict.
• Receive, record, investigate and monitor community complaints and grievances.
• Maintain a formal community grievance register and ensure matters are followed up and closed out.
• Communicate mine activities, projects, employment opportunities and relevant developments to affected communities.
• Support the implementation and monitoring of the mine's Social and Labour Plan (SLP) commitments.
• Assist with community development and socio-economic development initiatives.
• Liaise with local municipalities, traditional authorities, ward councillors, community leaders and other relevant stakeholders.
• Support local employment initiatives and communicate recruitment processes and requirements to communities.
• Assist with local procurement and enterprise development initiatives where required.
• Monitor community expectations and identify potential risks that could impact mining operations.
• Provide management with regular reports on community sentiment, stakeholder concerns and emerging risks.
• Facilitate community meetings and prepare meeting minutes, attendance registers and action plans.
• Monitor agreed actions and commitments made by the mine during stakeholder engagements.
• Assist with public meetings, awareness campaigns and community outreach programmes.
• Support the mine during periods of community unrest, protests or disputes by facilitating communication between stakeholders.
• Ensure communication is handled professionally, transparently and in accordance with company policies.
• Maintain accurate stakeholder databases and engagement records.
• Assist with regulatory and compliance reporting relating to stakeholder engagement and community development.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Build and maintain positive relationships with surrounding communities and community structures.
• Act as the primary point of contact between the mine and local community representatives.
• Conduct regular community engagements, meetings and consultations.
• Identify and elevate community concerns, disputes and potential areas of conflict.
• Receive, record, investigate and monitor community complaints and grievances.
• Maintain a formal community grievance register and ensure matters are followed up and closed out.
• Communicate mine activities, projects, employment opportunities and relevant developments to affected communities.
• Support the implementation and monitoring of the mine's Social and Labour Plan (SLP) commitments.
• Assist with community development and socio-economic development initiatives.
• Liaise with local municipalities, traditional authorities, ward councillors, community leaders and other relevant stakeholders.
• Support local employment initiatives and communicate recruitment processes and requirements to communities.
• Assist with local procurement and enterprise development initiatives where required.
• Monitor community expectations and identify potential risks that could impact mining operations.
• Provide management with regular reports on community sentiment, stakeholder concerns and emerging risks.
• Facilitate community meetings and prepare meeting minutes, attendance registers and action plans.
• Monitor agreed actions and commitments made by the mine during stakeholder engagements.
• Assist with public meetings, awareness campaigns and community outreach programmes.
• Support the mine during periods of community unrest, protests or disputes by facilitating communication between stakeholders.
• Ensure communication is handled professionally, transparently and in accordance with company policies.
• Maintain accurate stakeholder databases and engagement records.
• Assist with regulatory and compliance reporting relating to stakeholder engagement and community development.

STAKEHOLDERS

• Traditional authorities and traditional leaders
• Community forums and structures
• Ward councillors
• Local municipalities
• Community-based organisations
• Local businesses and suppliers
• NGOs and development organisations
• Mine employees and organised labour where relevant
• Government departments
• Local schools and community institutions
• Surrounding landowners and affected communities

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Grade 12 / Matric.
• A relevant tertiary qualification in Community Development, Public Relations, Social Sciences, Development Studies, Communications, Stakeholder Management or a related field will be advantageous.
• 35 years' experience in a Community Liaison / Stakeholder Relations role.
• Previous experience within the mining industry is highly advantageous.
• Experience working with communities in a rural or mining environment.
• Knowledge of community engagement and grievance-management processes.
• Computer literacy, particularly MS Word and Excel.
• Valid driver's licence.
• Ability and willingness to travel between mining operations and surrounding communities

MINING-SPECIFIC EXPERIENCE

• Candidates with experience in the following areas will be preferred:
• Social and Labour Plans (SLP)
• Mining community engagement
• Social and Economic Development (SED)
• Local employment initiatives
• Local procurement and enterprise development
• Community grievances and dispute resolution
• Stakeholder mapping and engagement
• Community development projects
• Traditional authority engagement
• Mining regulatory and stakeholder requirements
• Experience dealing with community protests or operational disruptions

CORE COMPETENCIES