Mine Ventilation Engineer - Underground Safety Specialist

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

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based incentive

Medical aid

Provident fund

Relocation assistance

Career development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Mine Ventilation Engineer for a premier underground operation in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. You will design, manage and optimize ventilation systems to maintain air quality and safety in demanding underground conditions.

The role requires a Bachelor's in Mining or Mechanical Engineering, 7+ years in mine ventilation, and proficiency with Ventsim or MineScape. Hybrid work setup with strong collaboration across safety and operations teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline.
• 7+ years of progressive experience in mine ventilation engineering, underground operations preferred.
• Proficiency in mine ventilation modeling software (Ventsim, MineScape).
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and air quality management in underground mines.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and maintain mine ventilation systems to meet safety and operational requirements.
• Conduct ventilation surveys, airflow measurements, gas monitoring, and dust sampling.
• Analyze ventilation network performance and identify improvements.
• Specify, procure, and manage ventilation equipment (fans, ducts, filtration).
• Develop ventilation plans, SOPs, and procedures; train site personnel.

Skills

Mine ventilation modeling

Thermodynamics

Fluid dynamics

Air quality management

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mining or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Ventsim

MineScape

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading underground mining operation in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking a highly experienced Mine Ventilation Engineer to join their safety-focused team in Pietermaritzburg . This critical role is dedicated to ensuring the health, safety, and productivity of the workforce through the effective design, management, and optimization of underground ventilation systems. The Mine Ventilation Engineer will be instrumental in maintaining optimal air quality, temperature, and pressure conditions, as well as implementing robust dust and gas monitoring protocols. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of mine ventilation principles, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and regulatory compliance, coupled with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. This position requires close collaboration with mine management, safety personnel, and operations teams to proactively address ventilation challenges and uphold the highest safety standards. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a safe and efficient mining environment.

Key Responsibilities

Design, implement, and maintain comprehensive mine ventilation systems to meet operational and safety requirements. Conduct regular ventilation surveys, including airflow measurements, gas monitoring (e.g., methane, carbon monoxide), and dust sampling. Analyze ventilation network performance using specialized software and identify areas for improvement. Specify, procure, and manage ventilation equipment, including fans, ducting, and filtration systems. Develop and update ventilation plans, schematics, and standard operating procedures (SOPs). Collaborate with underground operations to ensure ventilation strategies support safe production targets. Implement and monitor effective dust suppression and control measures. Investigate ventilation-related incidents and deviations, recommending and implementing corrective actions. Provide training and technical guidance to site personnel on ventilation safety and best practices. Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations related to mine ventilation.

Requirements

A Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline. A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in mine ventilation engineering, with a strong focus on underground operations. Proficiency in mine ventilation modeling software (e.g., Ventsim, MineScape). Solid understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and air quality management in underground mines. Knowledge of dust control technologies and regulations. Familiarity with South African mining health and safety legislation. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite. Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work environment, balancing on-site and remote responsibilities.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, including a performance-based incentive program, comprehensive medical aid, and a provident fund. This hybrid role provides flexibility while ensuring essential on-site presence in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal . Relocation assistance may be provided. We are committed to professional development and offer opportunities for career advancement within a respected mining organization.