Mine Operations Manager - Surface Mining

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid and retirement fund

Housing/ accommodation assistance

Annual leave and statutory benefits

Career development opportunities

Company-provided vehicle and fuel

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Mine Operations Manager to oversee surface mining operations in Rustenburg, North West. This on-site role demands hands-on leadership across production, maintenance, safety and environmental compliance to meet targets and cost goals.

You will develop annual operating plans, manage drilling, blasting, loading, hauling, crushing, and ensure adherence to safety regulations while optimizing equipment utilisation and resource recovery.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or related field.
• Master's degree or professional certifications are advantageous.
• Minimum 10 years in surface mine operations, 5+ years in a leadership role.
• Proven track record in large-scale mining operations and meeting targets.
• Strong knowledge of surface mining methods, equipment and tech.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and monitor annual operating plans and budgets.
• Manage all surface mine production including drilling, blasting, loading, hauling, crushing.
• Ensure safety, environmental, and company policy compliance at the site.
• Oversee maintenance and utilization of mining equipment and machinery.
• Lead, mentor, and develop mine supervisors, operators, and staff.
• Improve production efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance recovery.
• Collaborate with engineering, geology, and processing teams for smooth ops.
• Conduct site inspections and risk assessments to identify hazards.
• Manage relationships with contractors and suppliers for quality and cost-effectiveness.
• Report performance metrics and challenges to senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Communication

Team management

Decision making

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering

Master's degree or relevant certifications

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a leading mining enterprise seeking a seasoned and results-oriented Mine Operations Manager to oversee their significant surface mining operations in Rustenburg, North West . This critical role demands strong leadership, strategic planning capabilities, and a deep understanding of all facets of surface mine management, from production and maintenance to safety and environmental compliance. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and cost-effective extraction of resources, meeting production targets, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. This position is based on-site and requires a hands‑on approach, working closely with a large operational team. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of operational excellence and safety, and this role is fundamental to achieving those goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and monitor annual operating plans and budgets for the surface mine.
• Manage all aspects of mine production, including drilling, blasting, loading, hauling, and crushing operations.
• Ensure adherence to all safety regulations, environmental standards, and company policies across the mining site in Rustenburg .
• Oversee the maintenance and effective utilization of all mining equipment and machinery.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a diverse team of mine supervisors, operators, and support staff.
• Implement strategies to optimize production efficiency, reduce costs, and improve resource recovery.
• Collaborate with engineering, geology, and processing departments to ensure seamless operations.
• Conduct regular site inspections and risk assessments to identify and mitigate potential hazards.
• Manage relationships with contractors and suppliers, ensuring quality and cost-effectiveness.
• Report on operational performance, key metrics, and challenges to senior management.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering, Mine Management, or a related field.
• A Master's degree or relevant professional certifications are advantageous.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in surface mine operations, with at least 5 years in a management or supervisory role.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale mining operations and achieving production targets.
• Extensive knowledge of surface mining methods, equipment, and technologies.
• Strong understanding of mine safety legislation, environmental regulations, and best practices.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate and manage diverse teams.
• Proficiency in mine planning software and production management systems.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and manage budgets effectively.
• Experience in operational problem-solving and implementing process improvements.
• Must be willing to reside or commute regularly to the Rustenburg area and commit to on-site operations.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Accommodation assistance or a housing allowance may be provided.
• Generous annual leave and other statutory benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement within a leading mining organization.
• A challenging and rewarding role with significant responsibility in Rustenburg .
• Company-provided vehicle and fuel allowance for site-related travel.
• Exposure to innovative mining technologies and practices.