Mine Planning Engineer - Open Pit

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Hybrid work model

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Mine Planning Engineer in Pretoria to lead open-pit planning efforts. You will develop weekly to 1–5 year plans, optimize sequences, and integrate geotechnical data with operations to maximize ore recovery while ensuring safety and compliance.

The role mixes remote strategic analysis with essential on-site collaboration, leveraging industry-standard software and multidisciplinary teamwork for sustainable production in South Africa's mining hub.

Qualifications

• Degree in mining engineering or related field.
• Minimum 5 years in open-pit mine planning and design.
• Proficiency with Deswik, Vulcan or MineSight.
• Solid understanding of open-pit mining methods and sequencing.
• Knowledge of geotechnical considerations for design.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain short-term and long-term mine plans for open-pit operations.
• Utilize Deswik, Vulcan, or MineSight to create detailed designs (benches, ramps, waste dumps).
• Optimize sequences to maximize ore recovery and minimize waste.
• Integrate geotechnical, topographical, and resource data into planning models.
• Review designs for safety compliance and best practices.
• Generate production schedules and material movement forecasts.
• Collaborate with operations, geology, and survey teams to implement plans.
• Prepare reports and presentations on planning activities.
• Stay updated on mine planning trends and technology.

Skills

Open-pit mining

Data analysis

Team collaboration

Education

BEng or BSc in Mining Engineering

Tools

Deswik

Vulcan

MineSight

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major contributor to the mining industry , is seeking a skilled Mine Planning Engineer with expertise in open-pit operations to join their team in Pretoria, Gauteng, ZA . This hybrid position allows for strategic planning and analysis from a remote base, complemented by essential on-site collaboration and oversight. You will be responsible for developing short-term, medium-term, and long-term mine plans that optimize resource utilization, ensure operational safety, and achieve production targets. The ideal candidate possesses a strong analytical aptitude, proficiency in mine planning software, and a comprehensive understanding of open-pit mining methods, geotechnical principles, and operational constraints. This role is crucial for maximizing the economic viability of our client's mining assets and ensuring sustainable production. You will work closely with operational teams, geologists, and surveyors to translate plans into reality. We are looking for a detail-oriented and proactive engineer who can contribute to efficient and safe mining practices within the bustling Gauteng mining hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain short-term (weekly/monthly) and long-term (1-5 year) mine plans for open-pit operations.
• Utilize mine planning software (e.g., Deswik, Vulcan, XACT) to create detailed designs, including benches, ramps, and waste dumps.
• Optimize mine sequences to maximize ore recovery and minimize waste, considering economic factors.
• Integrate geotechnical, topographical, and resource data into mine planning models.
• Conduct mine design reviews and ensure compliance with safety regulations and operational best practices.
• Generate production schedules, equipment utilization plans, and material movement forecasts.
• Monitor progress against planned targets and implement adjustments as necessary.
• Collaborate with operations, geology, and survey departments to ensure seamless execution of plans.
• Prepare reports and presentations on mine planning activities and outcomes.
• Stay updated on industry trends and technological advancements in mine planning.

Requirements

• BEng or BSc in Mining Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in open-pit mine planning and design.
• Proficiency with leading mine planning software packages such as Deswik, Vulcan, or MineSight.
• Solid understanding of open-pit mining methods, equipment capabilities, and operational sequencing.
• Knowledge of geotechnical considerations and their impact on mine design.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and quantitative skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Experience working in a hybrid model, balancing remote work with site visits.
• Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Registered as a Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng) is advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package.
• This hybrid role provides a blend of flexible remote work and essential on-site engagement, contributing to an optimal work-life balance.
• You will have the opportunity to work on significant open-pit projects, gain valuable experience, and advance your career within a reputable mining company .
• Professional development and training opportunities are readily available.
• Join a team committed to operational excellence, safety, and innovation in the heart of South Africa's mining landscape.