Mine Planning Engineer - Underground Operations

Placements24; Paarl; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Hybrid work model

Performance-based incentives

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Mine Planning Engineer to lead the development and optimization of short-term and long-term underground mine plans in Paarl, Western Cape. You will design layouts, forecast production, and integrate geotechnical input to ensure safe, economical extraction.

Based in Paarl with hybrid work, the role requires strong technical skills in Deswik/Vulcan/Surpac, deep knowledge of underground methods, and the ability to mentor junior engineers while coordinating with

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or related discipline.
• At least 6 years of underground mine planning experience.
• Proficiency in mine planning software packages.
• Strong understanding of underground mining methods, ventilation, and ground support.

Responsibilities

• Develop short-term (daily/weekly/monthly) and long-term (annual/LOM) mine plans.
• Design layouts, access routes, and ventilation circuits using planning software.
• Produce production forecasts and resource utilization analyses.
• Mentor junior planning engineers and coordinate with geology/GEOTECH teams.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Decision-making

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Leadership/mentoring

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering

Tools

Deswik

Vulcan

Surpac

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent force in the Mining sector, is seeking an experienced Mine Planning Engineer to contribute to their underground operations. This role will be primarily based in Paarl, Western Cape, with a hybrid working model. The Mine Planning Engineer will be responsible for developing and optimizing short-term and long-term mine plans, ensuring safe, efficient, and economically viable resource extraction. This position requires a strong understanding of underground mining methods, geotechnical principles, and production scheduling. It's an excellent opportunity for a seasoned professional to shape the future of mining operations.

Key Responsibilities

Develop detailed short-term (daily, weekly, monthly) and long-term (annual, life-of-mine) mine plans. Utilize mine planning software (e.g., Deswik, Vulcan, Surpac) to design stope layouts, access routes, and ventilation circuits. Conduct production forecasting and resource utilization analysis. Collaborate with geological and geotechnical teams to integrate resource models and stability assessments into mine plans. Ensure mine plans comply with all safety, health, environmental, and regulatory requirements. Analyze production data and adjust plans to optimize efficiency and address unforeseen challenges. Prepare reports and presentations on mine plans, production targets, and performance. Identify opportunities for cost reduction and efficiency improvements in mining operations. Assist in the commissioning of new mining areas and equipment. Supervise and mentor junior planning engineers.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or a related discipline. A minimum of 6 years of experience in underground mine planning and operations. Proficiency in industry-standard mine planning software packages. Strong understanding of various underground mining methods (e.g., narrow-vein, bulk mining). Knowledge of mine design principles, ventilation, and ground support. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse teams. Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a hybrid work environment. Experience with financial analysis related to mine projects is an asset. Willingness to undertake site visits as required for the hybrid role based out of Paarl.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and retirement fund, and potential for performance-based incentives. This hybrid role offers a blend of remote work flexibility and essential on-site collaboration, based in the picturesque town of Paarl, Western Cape. Opportunities for professional growth and advancement within the Mining industry are significant. Our client is committed to providing a safe, engaging, and productive work environment. This position offers the chance to play a key role in strategic planning and operational success for a leading Mining organization.