Mine Manager

Ikwezi Mining; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Job summary

Ikwezi Mining in South Africa seeks an experienced Mine Manager to lead an opencast coal operation, ensuring safe, efficient, compliant, and cost-effective mining while hitting production targets.

The role requires 8–10 years in open-pit mining with 3–5 years in a managerial capacity, and a strong track record in opencast coal. You will oversee budgets, safety programs, and cross-disciplinary teams to drive sustainable performance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering, Geology, or a related field (a postgraduate qualification is advantageous).
• Minimum of 8–10 years in open-pit mining, with at least 3–5 years in a managerial role.
• Proven track record in opencast coal operations.
• Strong leadership and decision-making abilities.
• In-depth knowledge of mining software and tools (e.g., Surpac, MineSight).
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Financial acumen and ability to manage budgets effectively.
• Relevant mine manager’s certification of competency (depending on the country) and safety certifications.

Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and oversee all mining activities to meet production targets.
• Develop and implement short- and long-term operational plans.
• Monitor and manage equipment utilization and downtime.
• Enforce health, safety, and environmental regulations and promote zero-harm culture.
• Lead a multidisciplinary team and provide training and performance reviews.
• Prepare and manage the mine’s budget and analyze cost-saving opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with mining laws and regulatory reporting; liaise with authorities and stakeholders.
• Identify process improvements and participate in feasibility studies and expansion projects.

Skills

Leadership

Decision-making

Communication

Stakeholder management

Financial acumen

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering/Geology

Postgraduate qualification advantageous

Tools

Surpac

MineSight

Job description

We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Mine Manager to lead and oversee the operations of an opencast coal mining operation. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring safe, efficient, compliant, and cost-effective mining operations while achieving production targets and maintaining high operational standards.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Operational Management:

• Plan, coordinate, and oversee all mining activities to ensure the achievement of production targets.
• Develop and implement short- and long-term operational plans.
• Monitor and manage equipment, ensuring high utilization and minimal downtime.

2. Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE):

• Enforce compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Lead safety initiatives to achieve zero harm and create a strong safety culture.
• Ensure proper handling, storage, and disposal of materials to minimize environmental impact.

3. Team Leadership:

• Manage and develop a multidisciplinary team, including engineers, geologists, operators, and support staff.
• Set performance goals, conduct regular reviews, and provide training.
• Foster effective communication and collaboration among departments.

4. Financial Management:

• Prepare and manage the mine’s budget, controlling costs while optimizing resources.
• Analyze operational data to identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Collaborate with the finance team to ensure timely and accurate reporting.

5. Compliance and Reporting:

• Ensure adherence to local and national mining laws and regulations.
• Submit regular reports on production, safety, and operational performance to stakeholders.
• Liaise with government authorities and community stakeholders as needed.

6. Strategic Planning:

• Identify opportunities for process improvement and innovation.
• Evaluate new technologies or methods to enhance productivity and sustainability.
• Participate in feasibility studies and expansion projects.

Qualifications and Skills:

Educational Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering, Geology, or a related field (a postgraduate qualification is advantageous).

Experience:

• Minimum of 8–10 years in open-pit mining, with at least 3–5 years in a managerial role.
• Proven track record in opencast coal operations.

Skills:

• Strong leadership and decision-making abilities.
• In-depth knowledge of mining software and tools (e.g., Surpac, MineSight).
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Financial acumen and ability to manage budgets effectively.

Certifications:

• Relevant mine manager’s certification of competency (depending on the country).
• Safety certifications (e.g., First Aid, HSE Management).

Key Attributes:

• Strategic thinker with a proactive approach.
• Committed to sustainability and ethical mining practices.
• Adaptable and able to handle high-pressure situations effectively.