Principal Engineer : Shafts And Winding Plants

Implats; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 1 200 000 - 1 500 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading mining company seeks a Principal Engineer to ensure the safe and reliable operation of shafts and winding systems. You will provide technical assurance, implement reliability strategies, and manage compliance with regulations. The ideal candidate has an NQF Level 7 qualification in Engineering, over 10 years of experience in shaft operations, and strong project management skills. Join a dynamic team to drive improvements and technological advancements in mining operations.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years’ experience in shaft and winding plants.
• At least 5 years in a senior management role.
• Proven project management experience.

Responsibilities

• Implement shaft and winding plant reliability strategy.
• Conduct technical audits to validate compliance.
• Investigate incidents and equipment failures.

Skills

Technical assurance

Analytical skills

Interpersonal skills

Problem-solving skills

Knowledge of HSE principles

Education

NQF Level 7 qualification in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering

Government Certificate of Competency (GCC)

Professional Engineering registration

Job description

PURPOSE OF THE JOB

The Principal Engineer will provide technical assurance to ensure the safe, compliant, and reliable operation and maintenance of shafts and winding systems.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

• NQF Level 7 qualification in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering and Government Certificate of Competency (GCC).
• Professional Engineering registration and management qualifications will be advantageous.
• Minimum of 10 years’ experience in shaft and winding plants, with at least 5 years in a senior management role.
• Proven project management experience.
• Broad knowledge of HSE principles and compliance requirements.
• Strong understanding of mining operations, processes, and regulatory frameworks.
• Comprehensive knowledge of legislative frameworks governing shafts and winding operations.
• Expertise in implementing and managing asset lifecycle strategies to optimise reliability and performance.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving skills with exceptional interpersonal and relationship‑management skills.
• Detail‑oriented, self‑driven, and results‑focused.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Implement shaft and winding plant reliability strategy and ensure compliance with regulations, standards, and company requirements.
• Conduct technical audits to validate compliance and improve operational, maintenance, and asset management practices.
• Investigate incidents and equipment failures, determine root causes, and recommend corrective actions.
• Monitor and benchmark winding plant performance metrics to drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Stay updated on technological innovations and industry best practices.
• Develop strategic plans and business cases for technology adoption and support digital transformation in operations and maintenance.
• Participate in developing technical specifications for winder upgrades.
• Implement structured equipment integrity processes to prevent failures.
• Communicate with relevant stakeholders to enhance safety and reliability of winding plant installations.
• Represent the company on external platforms to influence industry standards.
• Ensure sound governance and compliance with legislation, standards, and ethics.
• Support organisational transformation and empowerment objectives and succession planning.

APPLICATION PROCESS

CV, copies of qualifications and ID in one document must be uploaded onto the vacancy portal on the intranet / head office / vacancies / or on “Let’s Talk”.

External candidates: kindly visit the Implats website IMPLATS.CO.ZA under careers and apply online. Shortlisted candidates may be subject to psychometric assessments.

In the event you do not hear from the Human Resources department within 30 days after the application closing date, your application can be viewed as unsuccessful.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPPORTUNITY STATEMENT

Preference will be given to employees from the designated groups in line with the provisions of the Employment Equity Act and the company’s recruitment policy and employment equity plan. Impala Platinum Limited complies with the Protection of Personal Information Act 4 of 2013. Your personal information will be processed in a lawful, legitimate and responsible manner. By submitting your application, you give your express and informed consent to process your personal information for recruitment purposes.