Long Hole Drill Rig Technician

De Beers Group; Musina; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading diamond mining company in Musina is seeking a Long Hole Drill Rig Operator to drill in the underground mining environment. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 3 years of proven experience operating long hole drill rigs and hold the necessary qualifications such as the MQA Competent B certificate and Long Hole Drill Rig Certificate. This position requires adherence to safety practices to foster a culture of zero harm in the workplace.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 / N3 / Equivalent NQF Level 4 qualification is required.
• MQA Competent B certificate and Long Hole Drill Rig Certificate are necessary.
• Experience operating a long hole drill rig in underground mining is essential.

Responsibilities

• Drill holes to a design pattern using a Long Hole drill Rig.
• Contribute to a culture of zero harm and adhere to safety procedures.
• Conduct inspections of equipment and report defects to the supervisor.

Skills

Underground mining practices

Long hole drilling knowledge

Safety, Health and Environmental legislation

Ability to drill 100 to 150 meters per shift

3+ years practical operating experience

Education

Grade 12 / N3 / Equivalent NQF Level 4 qualification

MQA Competent B certificate for underground

Long Hole Drill Rig Certificate

Underground blasting/MQA Rock Breaking Certificate

Job description

Company Description

You’ll make it happen

Inclusive, supportive and innovative - come and be part of our bright future at Venetia! South Africa’s most valuable diamond mine is currently being developed underground. This opportunity allows you to be part of one of the largest infrastructure projects in the country.

The Long Hole Drill Rig Operator is responsible for drilling holes to a design pattern using a mechanised Long Hole drill Rig.

Our dedication to quality and high performance extends to our workforce, so we seek talented, ambitious people who will thrive in an environment which fosters individuality, inclusivity and creativity. If you like the idea of challenging and stimulating work in a diverse team, we'd like to hear from you.

Job Description

• Contribute to a culture of zero harm by adhering to all requirements as laid down by legislation and health, safety, environmental and security policies and procedures, and by the application of specific instructions to own work area and task completion.
• Take over/ hand over shift from off/on-going drill rig operator, attend to any abnormalities first, and then report to the supervisor to receive further instructions.
• Perform visual Inspections of equipment before, during and after operation according to departmental procedure to minimise breakdowns and operational losses by the timeous reporting of defects / abnormalities to Supervisor.
• Operate equipment according to relevant mining requirements and Standard Operating Procedures to achieve daily drilling targets.
• Report and record relevant operational data as required by department procedures to compile production reports.
• Conduct efficient housekeeping of equipment and work area in accordance with departmental requirements.
• Perform all activities according to instructions, procedures and mining needs.
• Participate in cost saving initiatives and adhere to financial procedures.

Qualifications

Formal qualifications:

• Grade 12 / N3 / Equivalent NQF Level 4 qualification
• MQA Competent B certificate for underground
• Long Hole Drill Rig Certificate
• An underground metalliferous blasting certificate /MQA Rock Breaking Certificate will be advantageous.

Additional Requirements

• Code B or higher Driver’s License
• Required classification as per VTS testing for specific role (Orange +)
• Medical Certificate of Fitness to work underground

Role-specific Knowledge

• Proven Minimum of 3 year’s practical experience of operating a long hole drill rig (Simba/ Solo) in an underground massive mining environment
• Previous experience in Sub-level caving/ Block caving will be a definite advantage.

Sound Knowledge And Experience Of

• Underground mining practices and operations
• Underground long hole drilling knowledge and skills
• Safety, Health and Environmental Legislation and standards applicable to underground mining
• Competent to drill 100 to 150 meters per shift

Additional Information

Who we are

De Beers Group is a company with a rich history and a sparkling future.

Since 1888 our experts have searched the world for nature’s most precious gem. Our diamonds bring beauty to the world.

But we think they can do so much more. We want our diamonds, and our business, to make life brilliant – for our people, our customers and the world around us.

Venetia Mine is part of De Beers Group Managed Operations Business which integrates mines, operations and support functions in the De Beers Group producer countries of Canada and South Africa to shape a safe, sustainable future for De Beers Group’s people, shareholders, communities and partners.

How To Apply

• For all internal applicants, you are required to complete an internal application form, attach detailed CV and qualifications. This form must be accompanied with a signature from your immediate line manager and Head of Department, failure to do so would render your application invalid.

Safety

Safety first is a way of life for us. We are unconditional about the safety, health and well-being of our colleagues, at work and at home, and about that of the communities where we work. We aim to lead the industry by investing in innovation to protect people, who are at the heart of our business. Our high performing teams take accountability for their own and others' actions, work collaboratively, and always show care and respect.

Background Checks

By applying for this job, you provide consent that your personal details, including your fingerprints, can be used to conduct background screening where appropriate.

Privacy Statement

De Beers Group collects and processes personal data in accordance with the relevant regulations.

Inclusion & Diversity

We are committed to promoting an inclusive and diverse workplace where we value and respect every colleague for who they are. We provide equality of opportunity to enable everyone to fulfil their potential.

Closing Date: 08 December 2025

Should you not have heard from the HR Department four weeks after the closing date, kindly consider your application as unsuccessful.