Mine Ventilation Engineer - Underground Operations

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Private medical aid

Provident fund

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Mine Ventilation Engineer for Paarl, Western Cape, to design, implement, and manage ventilation systems for underground operations. You will ensure safe air quality and thermal conditions while coordinating with mine planning and production teams.

The ideal candidate holds a degree in Mining or Mechanical Engineering with ventilation specialization, has 7+ years in underground mines, and is proficient in Ventsim, Ventsys and CFD.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mining or Mechanical Engineering with ventilation specialization.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and maintain mine ventilation networks for airflow.

Skills

Ventilation design

Dust control

Thermal management

Analytical skills

Project management

Communication

Cross-departmental collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering (ventilation)

Tools

Ventsim

Ventsys

CFD software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading operator in the mining sector, is seeking a highly skilled Mine Ventilation Engineer to oversee critical ventilation systems for their underground operations based in Paarl, Western Cape . This essential role focuses on ensuring a safe, healthy, and productive working environment through the design, implementation, and management of effective ventilation strategies. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of mine ventilation principles, dust and gas control, and thermal environments, along with a strong understanding of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for airflow modeling. This is a vital position for maintaining operational integrity and worker well-being.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and maintain mine ventilation networks to ensure adequate airflow and air quality.
• Conduct regular site assessments of ventilation systems, including pressure and airflow measurements.
• Develop and execute strategies for dust suppression and control of airborne contaminants.
• Monitor and manage thermal environments underground, implementing cooling strategies where necessary.
• Utilize mine ventilation software and CFD tools for simulation, analysis, and optimization of airflow.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations related to mine ventilation.
• Collaborate with mine planning and production teams to integrate ventilation requirements into mine designs.
• Develop and manage the mine ventilation budget, including equipment procurement and maintenance.
• Train and supervise junior ventilation staff and technicians.
• Investigate ventilation-related incidents and recommend corrective actions.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or Mechanical Engineering with a specialization in ventilation.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in mine ventilation engineering, specifically within underground mining environments.
• In-depth knowledge of mine ventilation principles, thermodynamics, and contaminant control.
• Proficiency in mine ventilation simulation software (e.g., Ventsim, Ventsys) and ideally CFD software.
• Strong understanding of dust control technologies and thermal management in underground mines.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and diagnostic skills.
• Proven ability to manage complex systems and projects effectively.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate across departments.
• Experience with relevant South African mining regulations and standards.
• A commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and health.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with experience and expertise, along with performance-related bonuses. A comprehensive benefits program includes private medical aid, provident fund contributions, and life insurance. Opportunities for professional development, advanced training courses, and attendance at international mining conferences are provided. The company fosters a challenging and supportive work environment, promoting employee growth and career progression. Relocation assistance may be available for successful candidates.