Mine Operations Manager

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Highly competitive salary

Medical aid and retirement fund

Leave package

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Mine Operations Manager in Bloemfontein, Free State to lead underground mining activities, ensure safety, efficiency and cost control. This senior leadership role oversees production, teams and compliance with health, safety and environmental standards on-site.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's in Mining Engineering, 10+ years in mine operations with 5+ in supervision, strong leadership, budgeting skills, and deep drilling/blasting experience. Pr.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mining Engineering or related field.
• Minimum of 10 years in mine operations, with at least 5 years in a supervisory or management role.
• Proven experience in managing large underground mining operations.
• In-depth knowledge of drilling, blasting, and load-and-haul operations.
• Strong understanding of mine safety regulations and best practices (e.g., MIOC requirements).
• Excellent leadership, team management, and motivational skills.
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing operational budgets.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Effective on-site communication in Bloemfontein.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all underground mining operations: drilling, blasting, loading, hauling.
• Develop and implement plans to meet production targets and budgets.
• Ensure adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations and policies.
• Lead and motivate a diverse mining team, fostering safety and high performance.
• Oversee equipment utilization to optimize productivity and reduce costs.
• Collaborate with planning, engineering, and maintenance for integrated operations.
• Drive continuous improvement for efficiency and safety.
• Manage operational risks and contingency planning.
• Conduct site inspections and performance reviews.
• Report production volumes, costs, and safety metrics.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Mine operations

Safety & compliance

Operational excellence

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mining Engineering

Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng) designation

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic mining enterprise, is seeking a results-oriented and experienced Mine Operations Manager to lead their operations in Bloemfontein, Free State. This senior leadership position is responsible for the safe, efficient, and cost-effective execution of all underground mining activities. You will oversee production, manage operational teams, and ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental standards. The ideal candidate possesses strong leadership capabilities, a deep understanding of mining processes, and a proven ability to drive operational excellence. This is an on-site role critical to the success of our mining endeavors in the Bloemfontein region. Your strategic vision and operational expertise will be key to achieving our production goals and maintaining a safe working environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all aspects of underground mining operations, including drilling, blasting, loading, and hauling.
• Develop and implement operational plans to meet production targets and budgets.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, and environmental regulations and company policies.
• Lead, motivate, and manage a diverse team of mining personnel, fostering a culture of safety and high performance.
• Oversee the effective utilization of mining equipment and resources to optimize productivity and minimize costs.
• Collaborate with mine planning, engineering, and maintenance departments to ensure integrated operations.
• Implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and safety.
• Manage operational risks and develop contingency plans.
• Conduct regular site inspections and operational reviews.
• Report on operational performance, including production volumes, costs, and safety metrics.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mine operations, with at least 5 years in a supervisory or management role.
• Proven experience in managing large underground mining operations.
• In-depth knowledge of drilling, blasting, and load-and-haul operations.
• Strong understanding of mine safety regulations and best practices (e.g., MIOC requirements).
• Excellent leadership, team management, and motivational skills.
• Strong financial acumen and experience managing operational budgets.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for working on-site in Bloemfontein.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng) designation is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund.
• Generous leave package.
• Opportunities for career advancement and professional development.
• Accommodation and travel allowances may be provided.
• Exposure to significant mining projects in the Free State province.
• A challenging and rewarding leadership role.
• Relocation assistance for successful candidates.