Principal Mine Ventilation Engineer

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive salary package

Medical aid

Annual bonus

Retirement fund

Career growth

International training

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Mine Ventilation Engineer to oversee and optimize underground ventilation networks. You will design, implement and manage ventilation systems, monitor air quality, and lead heat management strategies across multiple sites in South Africa.

The role requires a Master's in Mining/Mechanical Engineering with ventilation specialization and a minimum of 12 years in underground ventilation, with strong CFD and regulatory knowledge. Relocation to Rustenburg is anticipated.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Mining/Mechanical Engineering with ventilation specialization.
• 12+ years of progressive underground mine ventilation experience.
• Proven CFD, ventilation network analysis and air quality monitoring skills.
• Knowledge of South African mining regulations and environmental standards.

Responsibilities

• Design and maintain ventilation plans ensuring regulatory compliance and safe conditions.
• Conduct air quality surveys, dust and gas monitoring.
• Develop heat control strategies for underground environments.
• Perform ventilation simulations using VentSIM or similar tools.
• Oversee installation, commissioning and maintenance of ventilation equipment.

Skills

Ventilation network analysis

CFD modelling

Project leadership

Regulatory compliance

Mine ventilation design

Education

Master's degree in Mining/Mechanical Engineering (ventilation specialization)

Tools

VentSIM

Surpac

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in underground mining, is seeking an exceptional Principal Mine Ventilation Engineer to oversee and optimize ventilation systems for their extensive operations. This senior-level position is critical for ensuring a safe, healthy, and productive working environment deep within the earth. The successful candidate will be responsible for designing, implementing, and managing complex ventilation networks, air quality monitoring, and heat management strategies. This is a highly demanding role requiring deep technical expertise and a commitment to safety, situated in the heart of South Africa's mining landscape in Rustenburg, North West .

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and maintain mine ventilation plans and systems to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and safe working conditions.
• Conduct detailed air quality surveys, dust sampling, and gas monitoring to assess environmental hazards.
• Develop and implement strategies for heat control and management in underground environments.
• Perform network analysis simulations using specialized ventilation software (e.g., VENTSIM, Surpac).
• Manage the installation, commissioning, and maintenance of ventilation fans, ducting, and auxiliary equipment.
• Develop and implement emergency ventilation procedures and mine rescue plans.
• Provide expert technical advice and guidance to mine management and operational teams.
• Conduct risk assessments related to ventilation failures and occupational health exposures.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in mine ventilation technology and best practices.
• Train and mentor junior ventilation engineers and technicians.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Mining Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field with a specialization in ventilation.
• A minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in mine ventilation engineering, specifically within underground mining operations.
• Proven expertise in ventilation network analysis, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and mine environmental control.
• In-depth knowledge of South African mining regulations and environmental standards.
• Proficiency with mine ventilation design and simulation software.
• Strong leadership and project management skills.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and diagnostic abilities.
• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments.
• Must be willing to reside and work full-time in Rustenburg, North West , with potential travel to other sites.
• Prior experience in the Rustenburg, North West mining district is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive executive salary package
• comprehensive medical aid with top-tier providers
• a substantial annual bonus structure
• and a generous retirement fund
• The company provides extensive opportunities for professional growth
• international training
• and career progression
• Assistance with relocation to Rustenburg, North West will be provided for the successful candidate