Mine Operations Manager - Open Pit

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive pay

Medical benefits

Relocation assistance

Housing subsidy

Career development

Bonus eligibility

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a seasoned Mine Operations Manager to lead open-pit mining in the Nelspruit area. This executive role drives safe, efficient, and cost-effective extraction, material handling, and operations with a strong leadership focus.

You will oversee production teams, manage budgets, and ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards while mentoring a multidisciplinary team to achieve targets and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or related field.
• Master's degree preferred.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in open-pit mining operations management.
• Proven track record in managing large-scale mining operations and multi-disciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all aspects of open-pit mining operations, including drilling, blasting, loading, and hauling.
• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to meet production targets and optimize efficiency.
• Ensure strict adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations and policies.
• Manage operational budgets, control costs, and identify opportunities for efficiency improvements.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a diverse team of mining professionals and operational staff.
• Collaborate with planning, technical services, and maintenance departments to ensure seamless operations.

Skills

Open-pit mining operations

Leadership

Budget management

Strategic planning

Safety leadership

Team development

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly accomplished and results-driven Mine Operations Manager to lead their open-pit mining operations in the Nelspruit area. This senior leadership role is responsible for the safe, efficient, and cost-effective execution of all mining activities, from extraction to material handling. You will oversee production teams, manage resources, and ensure compliance with all operational, safety, and environmental standards. This is a critical position for an experienced mining professional looking to make a significant impact on a key mining project.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all aspects of open-pit mining operations, including drilling, blasting, loading, and hauling.
• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to meet production targets and optimize efficiency.
• Ensure strict adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations and policies.
• Manage operational budgets, control costs, and identify opportunities for efficiency improvements.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a diverse team of mining professionals and operational staff.
• Collaborate with planning, technical services, and maintenance departments to ensure seamless operations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or a related field; Master's degree preferred.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in open-pit mining operations management.
• Proven track record in managing large-scale mining operations and multi-disciplinary teams.
• In-depth knowledge of open-pit mining methods, equipment, and best practices.
• Strong understanding of mine planning, geotechnical principles, and safety management systems.
• Excellent leadership, decision-making, and communication skills are essential.

Benefits

• Executive-level salary and a significant performance-based bonus.
• Comprehensive medical, retirement, and insurance benefits.
• Relocation assistance and potential for subsidized housing.
• Extensive opportunities for professional development and career progression.
• A dynamic work environment with a focus on operational excellence and safety leadership.