Lead Ventilation Engineer

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive package

Remote work option

Career development

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Ventilation Engineer for underground mining operations. Based in Durban, the role supports remote work options and focuses on ventilation system design, air quality, and safety. You will lead projects and ensure compliant, efficient solutions across sites.

You bring 10+ years in mine ventilation, strong thermodynamics knowledge, and proficiency with Ventsim or similar tools. Pr.Eng. registration is advantageous; remote monitoring experience is a plus.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum 10 years' specialized experience in mine ventilation, underground focus.
• Experience with ventilation design principles, airflow, and gas/dust control.
• Proficiency with mining ventilation software (e.g., Ventsim).
• Strong thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and psychrometrics applied to mining.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize mine ventilation systems for underground operations.
• Conduct air quality assessments, dust and gas monitoring, and thermal studies.
• Develop and manage ventilation models using specialized software.
• Analyze survey data to improve performance and reduce costs.
• Oversee installation, commissioning, and maintenance of ventilation equipment.
• Provide guidance to site ventilation teams and mine planning personnel.
• Develop and deliver training on mine ventilation principles.
• Research new technologies to enhance system performance and efficiency.
• Ensure environmental standards and sustainable mining practices.

Skills

Ventilation design

Airflow dynamics

Gas/dust control

Pr.Eng. eligibility

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Ventsim

VentCal

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in the mining sector, is actively seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Ventilation Engineer to spearhead ventilation strategies and systems for their operations. This role, based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA , will focus on ensuring optimal air quality, thermal comfort, and safety within underground mining environments. You will leverage cutting-edge technology and your deep expertise to design, implement, and manage sophisticated ventilation systems, driving efficiency and worker well-being. This position offers a unique chance to influence major projects and contribute significantly to safe and productive mining practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and optimize mine ventilation systems for underground operations, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Conduct detailed air quality assessments, dust and gas monitoring, and thermal environment studies.
• Develop and manage ventilation network models using specialized software (e.g., Ventsim, VentCal).
• Analyze ventilation survey data and performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and cost savings.
• Oversee the installation, commissioning, and maintenance of ventilation equipment, including fans, ducting, and control systems.
• Provide expert technical guidance and support to site-based ventilation teams and mine planning personnel.
• Develop and deliver training programs on mine ventilation principles and best practices.
• Research and recommend new technologies and methodologies to enhance ventilation system performance and efficiency.
• Ensure adherence to environmental standards and contribute to sustainable mining practices through optimized ventilation solutions.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, specifications, and operational guidelines.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of specialized experience in mine ventilation engineering, with a strong background in underground mining.
• Demonstrated expertise in mine ventilation design principles, airflow dynamics, and gas/dust control.
• Proficiency in mine ventilation simulation software such as Ventsim or equivalent.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and psychrometrics as applied to mining environments.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Superior communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to lead technical teams and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng.) registration or eligibility is highly advantageous.
• Experience with remote monitoring and control systems for ventilation is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive compensation package, including an attractive salary, performance incentives, and comprehensive health and retirement benefits. This is a full-time, remote position, providing flexibility and the opportunity to work from anywhere. We are committed to fostering a culture of continuous learning and development, offering significant opportunities for professional advancement within a leading international mining organization. Join our innovative team and make a significant impact on mine safety and productivity.