Mine Operations Manager - Underground

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary

Bonus

Global medical coverage

Retirement plan

Accommodation

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Mine Operations Manager for underground operations in Upington, Northern Cape. This executive role oversees development, production, maintenance, safety, and environmental compliance to drive safe, efficient, and profitable extraction.

You will lead a large multidisciplinary team, align with geology, engineering and processing, manage budgets, and implement strategic plans to meet production targets while maintaining world-class safety standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering required.
• Master's degree or MBA is advantageous for senior leadership.
• Minimum 10 years in underground mine operations with at least 5 years in a senior management role.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all underground mining operations (development, production, maintenance).
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environmental, and statutory regulations.
• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to meet production and financial targets.
• Manage budgets for operating expenditures and capital projects.
• Lead and develop a diverse team of mining professionals and personnel.
• Oversee resources including equipment, personnel and materials.
• Promote a strong safety culture across the operation.
• Collaborate with geology, engineering and processing teams for integrated mine management.
• Drive continuous improvement to boost efficiency and reduce costs.
• Monitor KPIs and implement corrective actions.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Negotiation

Decision making

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering

Master's degree or MBA (advantage)

Tools

Mine planning software

Production management systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major player in the South African mining landscape, is seeking a highly experienced and dynamic Mine Operations Manager to lead their significant underground mining operations in Upington, Northern Cape . This senior leadership position is responsible for the overall management of underground mining activities, ensuring the safe, efficient, and profitable extraction of resources. The successful candidate will oversee production, maintenance, safety, and environmental compliance, driving operational excellence and continuous improvement. This role requires strong leadership capabilities, a deep understanding of underground mining methods, and a proven ability to manage large teams and complex operations within the challenging mining environment. We are looking for a results-oriented leader committed to the highest standards of safety and productivity.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all aspects of underground mining operations, including development, production, and maintenance.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, environmental, and statutory regulations.
• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to meet production targets and financial objectives.
• Manage budgets for operational expenditures and capital projects.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a diverse team of mining professionals and personnel.
• Oversee the effective utilization of resources, including equipment, personnel, and materials.
• Implement and promote a strong safety culture throughout the operation.
• Collaborate with other departments, including geology, engineering, and processing, to ensure integrated mine management.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and reduce costs.
• Monitor mine performance against key performance indicators (KPIs) and implement corrective actions as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering.
• A Master's degree or MBA is advantageous.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in underground mine operations, with at least 5 years in a senior management role (e.g., Mine Manager, Superintendent).
• Proven expertise in various underground mining methods, planning, and execution.
• Strong leadership, management, and decision-making skills.
• In-depth knowledge of mine safety regulations, environmental legislation, and best practices.
• Excellent financial acumen and experience managing large operational budgets.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with mine planning software and production management systems.
• Professional registration with ECSA (Pr. Eng.) is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated ability to foster a positive and safe working culture.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive executive salary, a substantial performance-based bonus, comprehensive global medical coverage, and a generous retirement plan. This leadership role provides significant autonomy and the opportunity to shape the future of a major underground mining operation. Employees benefit from continuous professional development opportunities, including leadership training and exposure to advanced mining technologies. Accommodation and other site-related benefits are provided. Join a leading organization in the mining sector and lead critical operations in the resource-rich region of Upington .