Lead Mining Engineer - Mineral Resource Development

Placements24

Noord-Kaap

On-site

ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,800,000

Full time

3 days ago

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Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Company vehicle

Performance bonuses

Medical aid and retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Lead Mining Engineer for a prominent mining group operating in Kimberley, Northern Cape. The role leads a team of mining engineers and geologists to plan and optimize both open-pit and underground operations, ensuring safety and economic viability.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's or Master's in Mining Engineering, Pr. Eng. with ECSA, and 10+ years in mine planning and operations. Strong leadership and software expertise (Deswik, Vulcan, Surpac) are essential.

Qualifications

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mining Engineering required.
Pr. Eng. registration with ECSA essential.
Minimum 10 years in mine planning, design and operations.
Experience with open-pit and/or underground mining methods and tech.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement comprehensive mine plans for open-pit and/or underground operations.
Oversee geological modeling and resource estimation with geologists.
Conduct feasibility studies and economic evaluations for new projects.
Apply Deswik, Vulcan and Surpac to optimize layouts and sequences.
Ensure compliance with safety, environmental and SA mining laws.
Lead and mentor mining engineers, geologists and technical staff.
Monitor performance, identify bottlenecks and drive productivity gains.
Evaluate mining equipment and technology to improve efficiency.
Liaise with regulators, communities and external parties.
Prepare technical reports and proposals for senior management.
Stay updated on industry best practices and trends in mining engineering.
Ensure efficient resource utilization and waste management practices.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Team management

Communication

Problem-solving

Decision making

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mining Engineering

Tools

Deswik

Vulcan

Surpac

Job description

About the Role Our client, a prominent mining group with diverse operations across South Africa, is seeking an accomplished Lead Mining Engineer to spearhead mineral resource development and operational planning in Kimberley, Northern Cape . This senior position requires a strategic thinker with extensive experience in mine planning, geological assessment, and operational optimization, particularly within the diamond or precious metal sectors prevalent in the region. You will be responsible for leading a team of mining engineers and geologists, ensuring the efficient and safe extraction of resources while maximizing economic viability. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of both open-pit and underground mining methods, advanced mine design software, and a commitment to sustainable and responsible mining practices. This is a crucial role for shaping the future of mining operations in the Northern Cape and offers significant opportunities for professional growth and leadership within a leading mining enterprise.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and implement comprehensive mine plans, including short‑term and long‑term production schedules, for open-pit and/or underground operations.
Oversee the geological modeling and resource estimation processes, collaborating closely with geologists.
Conduct feasibility studies and economic evaluations for new mining projects and expansions.
Apply advanced mine design principles and software (e.g., Deswik, Vulcan, Surpac) to optimize mine layouts and extraction sequences.
Ensure all mining activities comply with stringent safety regulations, environmental standards, and South African mining legislation.
Manage and mentor a team of mining engineers, geologists, and technical staff, fostering a culture of high performance and safety.
Monitor operational performance, identify bottlenecks, and implement strategies for continuous improvement in productivity and cost efficiency.
Evaluate and recommend appropriate mining equipment and technology to enhance operational effectiveness.
Liaise with regulatory bodies, community stakeholders, and other external parties on mining-related matters.
Prepare technical reports, presentations, and proposals for senior management and stakeholders.
Stay abreast of industry best practices, technological advancements, and emerging trends in mining engineering.
Ensure efficient resource utilization and waste management strategies are in place.

Requirements

A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mining Engineering.
Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is essential.
A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mine planning, design, and operations management.
Proven track record in leading mining projects and teams, preferably in the diamond or precious metals sector.
Expertise in mine planning software such as Deswik, Vulcan, Surpac, or similar.
In-depth knowledge of open‑pit and/or underground mining methods, geotechnical principles, and mineral processing.
Strong understanding of South African mining laws, health and safety regulations, and environmental management practices.
Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and problem‑solving skills.
Ability to make sound decisions under pressure and manage complex operational challenges.
Experience working in the Northern Cape mining region is highly advantageous.
Commitment to promoting a strong safety culture and sustainable mining practices.

Benefits