Lead Mining Engineer - Underground Operations

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Annual performance bonus

Medical benefits

Retirement plan

Remote work

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Mining Engineer for a remote-first role overseeing underground mine planning and operations across the Eastern Cape and beyond. The role emphasizes strategic design, scheduling, and safety oversight, with virtual leadership of site teams and collaboration with senior management.

The ideal candidate has a BSc/BEng in Mining Engineering with 10+ years in underground mine planning, proficient in Deswik, Surpac, and Datamine, and a strong track record in safety and

Qualifications

• Bachelor or Master degree in mining engineering or equivalent.
• Minimum 10 years underground mine planning and operations.
• Strong command of mine planning software and modelling.

Responsibilities

• Develop short- and long-term underground mine plans for multiple sites.
• Optimize layouts, schedules, and production sequences for safety and efficiency.
• Lead virtual teams and provide technical guidance remotely.
• Review plans, perform audits, and report to senior management.
• Drive safety, environmental, and regulatory compliance in underground operations.
• Prepare budgets and monitor costs; evaluate new technologies.
• Present technical findings through reports and proposals.

Skills

Remote leadership

Analytical thinking

Communication

Mentoring teams

Education

BSc/BEng in Mining Engineering

Master's degree advantageous

Tools

Deswik

Surpac

Datamine

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant entity within the mining sector, is seeking a highly experienced Lead Mining Engineer to manage and optimize their underground operations, from a fully remote capacity. This is a unique opportunity for a seasoned professional to apply their expertise in mine planning, design, and operational oversight without the need for on-site relocation. You will be responsible for developing strategic mine plans, ensuring efficient resource extraction, and driving safety initiatives across multiple sites. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of underground mining methodologies, advanced skills in mine planning software, and a proven ability to lead technical teams virtually. This remote-first role demands exceptional organizational and communication skills, enabling you to effectively influence and guide operational teams across the **Eastern Cape** region and beyond. Join our client's innovative approach to mine management and contribute to their continued success in the industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive short-term and long-term underground mine plans.
• Optimize mine layouts, development schedules, and production sequences for maximum efficiency and safety.
• Utilize advanced mine planning software (e.g., Deswik, Surpac, Datamine) for design, scheduling, and simulation.
• Oversee reserve estimations and resource modelling, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Provide technical guidance and support to site-based mining engineers and operations personnel.
• Conduct technical reviews and audits of mine plans and operational performance.
• Lead initiatives focused on improving safety performance and environmental compliance in underground operations.
• Develop and manage mine budgets, and monitor operational costs.
• Evaluate and recommend new mining technologies and methodologies.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and project proposals for senior management.

Requirements

• BSc or BEng in Mining Engineering. A Master's degree is advantageous.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in underground mine planning and operations.
• Proven expertise in developing and implementing complex mine plans for various commodities.
• Advanced proficiency in industry-standard mine planning and modelling software.
• Strong understanding of mine surveying, geotechnical principles, and ventilation systems.
• Demonstrated experience in leading and mentoring mining engineering teams, preferably in a remote or distributed setting.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and decision‑making skills.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly.
• Knowledge of South African mining regulations and best practices is essential.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety, health, and environmental stewardship.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package.
• Annual performance bonus.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for significant professional development and career progression.
• Flexible remote work arrangement, allowing you to work from any location.
• Access to advanced mining technologies and software.
• Collaborative and supportive virtual team environment.