Mine Planning Superintendent - Open Pit Operations

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonus incentives

Medical aid

Pension fund

Life insurance

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Mine Planning Superintendent to lead open-pit planning in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. The role oversees short-, medium-, and long-term plans, geology modelling, and sequencing to maximise value while maintaining safety and regulatory compliance.

The candidate will manage a team of planners and engineers, utilizing Vulcan, Surpac, and Deswik to optimise designs and schedules. Relocation support is available for the right person.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years of mine planning experience with at least 5 years in a supervisory/managerial role in open-pit mining.
• Proven expertise with mine planning software (Vulcan, Surpac, Deswik or similar).

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage short-, medium-, and long-term mine plans for open-pit operations.
• Oversee geological modelling and resource block modelling processes.
• Optimize mine designs, pit slopes, and sequencing to maximize value and minimize risk.
• Collaborate with production, engineering, and survey teams to ensure plan execution.
• Lead and develop the mine planning team, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.
• Regularly review and update mine plans based on performance and new data.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Team management

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering

Tools

Vulcan

Surpac

Deswik

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a significant mining entity, is seeking a dynamic and experienced Mine Planning Superintendent to lead their open-pit operations in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . This senior role is responsible for the strategic short-term, medium-term, and long-term planning of all open-pit mining activities, ensuring alignment with production targets, cost efficiencies, and safety standards. You will manage a team of mine planners and engineers, utilizing advanced mine planning software to optimize resource extraction and mine design. The ideal candidate will possess a comprehensive understanding of open-pit mining methods, drilling and blasting, fleet management, and the application of mine planning software. This is an excellent opportunity to take on a leadership role in a highly productive mining environment situated near the renowned winelands of Stellenbosch, Western Cape . You will play a key part in shaping the future of the mine by developing robust and achievable mine plans. Strong analytical skills, excellent communication, and a proven track record in mine planning leadership are essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage short, medium, and long-term mine plans for open-pit operations.
• Oversee the geological modeling and resource block modeling process.
• Optimize mine designs, pit slopes, and mine sequencing to maximize economic value and minimize risks.
• Collaborate with production, engineering, and survey teams to ensure effective plan execution.
• Manage the mine planning department, including supervision and professional development of mine planners.
• Ensure all mine plans comply with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Conduct regular reviews and updates of mine plans based on operational performance and geological data.
• Evaluate and recommend improvements in mine planning software and methodologies.
• Prepare detailed mine plans, production forecasts, and economic evaluations for management.
• Liaise with other departments to integrate mine planning with broader operational objectives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in mine planning, with at least 5 years in a supervisory or managerial role within open-pit mining.
• Proven expertise in utilizing mine planning software such as Vulcan, Surpac, Deswik, or similar.
• Strong understanding of open-pit mining methods, geotechnical principles, and blast design.
• Experience with geological modeling and resource estimation.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and teams.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng.) with ECSA or equivalent is highly desirable.
• Willingness to relocate or work in the Stellenbosch, Western Cape area.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, attractive bonus incentives, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, pension fund, and life insurance.
• We provide excellent opportunities for professional growth and career advancement within a leading mining organization.
• Relocation assistance is available for qualified candidates moving to the Stellenbosch, Western Cape region.
• Join a company that values innovation, operational excellence, and the development of its employees in a vibrant community.