Mining Operations Lead (Hybrid) - Safety & Efficiency

Placements24; Welkom; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Performance-based bonuses

Medical aid

Life insurance

Provident fund

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 in Welkom, Free State, South Africa, seeks an experienced Operations Lead to manage and optimize large-scale mining operations. You will drive efficiency, lead a diverse workforce, and ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and budget adherence to achieve ambitious production targets.

The role requires 8+ years in mining operations management, a mining engineering degree (postgraduate preferred), and strong leadership across engineering, maintenance, and geology teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or closely related field; postgraduate qualifications are a plus.
• Minimum 8 years of progressive mining operations management experience.
• Proven leadership of large, diverse teams in a mining context.
• In-depth knowledge of mining equipment, processes, and technologies.
• Strong knowledge of South African mining legislation, safety protocols (MHSA), and environmental regulations.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, and strategic planning skills.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement abilities.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day mining operations, ensuring schedules and quality.
• Develop strategies to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance safety.
• Lead and develop mine supervisors, operators, and support staff.
• Monitor KPIs and analyze data to drive corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations.
• Manage resources—equipment, materials, and personnel.
• Collaborate with engineering, maintenance, and geology teams.
• Drive continuous improvement using Lean or Six Sigma methodologies.
• Conduct site inspections and risk assessments to mitigate hazards.
• Contribute to budgeting and financial planning for the site.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Problem solving

Communication

Safety compliance

Data analysis

Mining equipment knowledge

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering

Postgraduate qualification

Tools

ERP systems

Operational planning software

Mine planning software

Job description

Placements24 in Welkom, Free State, South Africa, seeks an experienced Operations Lead to manage and optimize large-scale mining operations. You will drive efficiency, lead a diverse workforce, and ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and budget adherence to achieve ambitious production targets.

The role requires 8+ years in mining operations management, a mining engineering degree (postgraduate preferred), and strong leadership across engineering, maintenance, and geology teams.