Principal Mining Engineer

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package plus performance bonus

Medical, dental, and retirement plans

Professional development opportunities

Relocation assistance may be provided

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town seeks a Principal Mining Engineer to lead critical mining projects from the Western Cape hub. The role demands extensive expertise in underground and open-pit mining, advanced planning software, and a deep commitment to safety and efficiency.

You will drive strategic mine planning, mentor a team of engineers, and collaborate with geology and operations to optimize resource models and processing capabilities.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive experience in mine planning, design and operations.
• Exposure to large-scale mining projects and multi-disciplinary teams.
• Strong knowledge of underground and open-pit mining methods.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize strategic mine plans and production schedules.
• Oversee safe and efficient mining methods including drilling, blasting, loading and hauling.
• Conduct feasibility studies and economic evaluations for new projects and expansions.
• Utilize Deswik, Vulcan, Surpac, and MineSight for layouts and simulations.
• Mentor a team of engineers and technical staff.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Communication

Decision making

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

Deswik

Vulcan

Surpac

MineSight

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the mining industry, is actively seeking a distinguished Principal Mining Engineer to lead critical projects from their strategic hub in Cape Town, Western Cape, ZA. This senior role is central to overseeing the design, planning, and execution of complex mining operations. The ideal candidate will leverage extensive expertise in underground and open-pit mining methodologies, advanced mine planning software, and a profound understanding of mine safety and operational efficiency. You will be responsible for driving innovation in mining techniques, ensuring the economic viability of projects, and upholding the highest standards of environmental stewardship. This is a unique opportunity to influence the future direction of major mining ventures and contribute to the sustainable extraction of valuable resources in a challenging yet rewarding environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize strategic mine plans, including long-term and short-term production schedules.
• Design and oversee the implementation of safe and efficient mining methods (e.g., drilling, blasting, loading, hauling).
• Conduct feasibility studies and economic evaluations for new mining projects and expansions.
• Utilize advanced mine planning and modeling software (e.g., Deswik, Vulcan, Surpac, MineSight) for detailed layouts and simulations.
• Ensure strict adherence to all health, safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements within the mining operations.
• Manage and mentor a team of mining engineers and technical staff, fostering professional growth and high performance.
• Collaborate with geological, engineering, and operational teams to integrate mine planning with resource models and processing capabilities.
• Monitor operational performance, identify areas for improvement, and implement corrective actions to enhance productivity and reduce costs.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, project proposals, and presentations for executive management and stakeholders.
• Stay abreast of emerging mining technologies and best practices, evaluating their potential application.
• Oversee contractor management and equipment selection processes.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or a closely related field; a Master's degree is preferred.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mine planning, design, and operations, with significant exposure to large-scale mining projects.
• Expert proficiency in multiple mine planning software packages (e.g., Deswik, Vulcan, Surpac, MineSight).
• Demonstrated experience in both underground and open-pit mining environments.
• Strong understanding of mine ventilation, ground support, and geotechnical principles.
• Proven leadership skills with experience managing engineering teams.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Familiarity with relevant international mining codes and standards.
• Ability to travel to mine sites as required.
• Professional Engineer (PE) or equivalent certification is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers an attractive salary package commensurate with experience, coupled with a generous performance bonus and a comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, and retirement plans.
• Significant opportunities for professional development, advanced training, and career progression are provided.
• The role is based in the vibrant city of Cape Town, offering a dynamic lifestyle.
• Employees are eligible for annual leave and other paid time off benefits.
• Access to state-of-the-art technology and collaborative project environments ensures professional fulfillment.
• Relocation assistance may be considered for the successful candidate.