Mine Manager - Surface Operations

Placements24; Soweto; On-site; ZAR 2,200,000 - 3,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Performance-based bonuses

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Mine Manager to lead a large surface mining operation near Soweto, Gauteng. The role focuses on safe, efficient production, strategic planning, and budget delivery.

The candidate will drive safety culture, stakeholder engagement, and continuous improvement while managing a substantial team and capital expenditures in a dynamic mining environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering required.
• Post-graduate qualification or MBA advantageous.
• 15+ years in mining with 5+ years in senior management overseeing surface operations.
• Proven track record in large open-pit mining planning and execution.
• Strong safety, regulatory, financial, and stakeholder management experience.
• Must reside in or be able to commute to Soweto, Gauteng.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all facets of surface mine operations, including planning and production.
• Ensure safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance across operations.
• Develop strategic mine plans, production targets, and budgets.
• Oversee equipment, infrastructure, and personnel management.
• Foster safety culture through HSEQ systems and leadership.
• Manage relationships with regulators, communities, and suppliers.
• Drive continuous improvement to enhance productivity and reduce costs.
• Lead and develop a diverse team of mining professionals.
• Ensure ore grade control and waste management are optimized.
• Report performance, financials, and risks to senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Communication & negotiation

Financial acumen

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering

MBA or related post-graduate

Tools

Mine planning software

Operations management systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent mining entity operating near Soweto, Gauteng, is seeking a highly experienced and results-driven Mine Manager to lead their extensive surface mining operations. This senior leadership position is responsible for the overall safe, efficient, and profitable operation of the mine. You will oversee all aspects of production, planning, technical services, maintenance, safety, and community engagement. The ideal candidate will possess a strong track record in managing large-scale surface mining projects, driving operational excellence, and fostering a culture of safety and continuous improvement. This is a challenging yet rewarding role with significant responsibility and direct impact on the company's success in the Gauteng region.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all aspects of surface mine operations, including planning, production, and development.
• Ensure the mine operates safely, efficiently, and in compliance with all regulatory and environmental standards.
• Develop and implement strategic mine plans, production targets, and budgets.
• Oversee the management of all mining equipment, infrastructure, and personnel.
• Foster a strong safety culture through robust HSEQ systems and active leadership.
• Manage relationships with key stakeholders, including regulatory bodies, local communities, and suppliers.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity and reduce operating costs.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a diverse team of mining professionals and operational staff.
• Ensure effective resource management, including ore grade control and waste management.
• Report on mine performance, financial results, and operational risks to senior management.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• A relevant post-graduate qualification or MBA is advantageous.
• A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in the mining industry, with at least 5 years in a senior management role (e.g., Mine Manager, Operations Manager) overseeing surface operations.
• Demonstrated expertise in large-scale open-pit mining methods, planning, and execution.
• Proven track record of achieving production and cost targets in a competitive environment.
• Strong understanding of mine safety regulations, environmental management, and community relations.
• Excellent leadership, strategic thinking, and decision-making skills.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal abilities.
• Proficiency in mine planning software and operational management systems.
• Valid driver's license and ability to reside in or commute regularly to the Soweto, Gauteng area.
• Strong financial acumen and experience in managing significant operational budgets.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive executive salary, comprehensive medical aid, a substantial provident fund, and performance-based bonuses.
• This role provides a unique opportunity to lead a major mining operation and significantly impact the company's future.
• We offer a challenging work environment with opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
• Relocation assistance may be considered for exceptional candidates.