Principal Mining Engineer

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive package

Medical coverage

Retirement plan

Hybrid work model

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Principal Mining Engineer for our client in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. The role blends on-site assessments with remote strategic planning to drive safe, cost-effective extraction and long-term mine development.

You will lead complex studies, mentor engineers, collaborate with geologists and environmental specialists, and oversee adoption of advanced mining technologies. A PE designation and 12+ years of open-pit/underground experience are expected.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Mining Engineering or closely related field.
• 12+ years of progressive experience in mine planning, design, and operations focusing on complex projects.
• Proven open-pit and/or underground mining expertise and optimization techniques.
• Experience with hybrid work environment and leadership responsibilities.

Responsibilities

• Develop long-term mining plans and strategies for large-scale operations.
• Provide expert guidance on mine design, development, and production optimization.
• Lead technical studies including feasibility, economic evaluations, and risk assessments.
• Mentor a team of mining engineers and foster best practices.
• Collaborate with geologists, environmental specialists, and stakeholders for integrated planning.
• Oversee the application of advanced mining technologies and methodologies.
• Ensure all activities comply with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports and presentations for senior management.
• Champion innovation and continuous improvement within the mining engineering function.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Strategic thinking

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Master's degree in Mining Engineering

PhD in Mining Engineering

Tools

Deswik

Vulcan

Leapfrog

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the mining industry , is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Principal Mining Engineer to join their strategic team in the Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA area. This hybrid role requires a blend of on-site presence for crucial operational assessments and remote work for in-depth analysis and strategic planning. The Principal Mining Engineer will be responsible for developing and overseeing the implementation of complex mining strategies, ensuring the most efficient, safe, and cost-effective extraction of resources. This pivotal role involves leading technical projects, mentoring junior engineers, and contributing significantly to long-term mine development and operational improvements. We are looking for a candidate with a proven track record of innovation and excellence in mine design and execution. Your expertise will be vital in shaping the future of our mining operations and maximizing asset value. This is a unique opportunity to influence high-level decision-making and drive significant advancements in our mining practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, evaluate, and implement long-term mining plans and strategies for large-scale mining operations.


• Provide expert technical guidance on mine design, development, and production optimization.


• Lead complex technical studies, including feasibility studies, economic evaluations, and risk assessments.


• Mentor and guide a team of mining engineers, fostering technical growth and best practices.


• Collaborate with geologists, environmental specialists, and other stakeholders to ensure integrated project planning and execution.


• Oversee the application of advanced mining technologies and methodologies.


• Ensure all mining activities comply with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.


• Prepare comprehensive technical reports and presentations for senior management and external stakeholders.


• Champion innovation and continuous improvement initiatives within the mining engineering function.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Mining Engineering or a closely related field.


• Over 12 years of progressive experience in mine planning, design, and operations, with a significant focus on complex mining projects.


• Demonstrated expertise in open-pit and/or underground mining methods, mine systems, and optimization techniques.


• Proficiency in advanced mine planning and modeling software (e.g., Deswik, Vulcan, Leapfrog).


• Strong understanding of mine economics, project finance, and risk management.


• Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities.


• Experience in a hybrid work environment, effectively managing time between on-site and remote responsibilities.


• Professional Engineer (PE) designation or equivalent is required.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly attractive compensation package, including a competitive base salary, significant performance bonuses, and comprehensive benefits. These include top-tier medical coverage, substantial retirement plan contributions, and generous leave allowances. The hybrid work model promotes a healthy work-life balance, combining the benefits of on-site collaboration with remote flexibility. We are committed to your professional development, offering opportunities for advanced training, participation in international conferences, and exposure to leading-edge mining technologies. Join a forward-thinking organization where your expertise will be valued, and you will play a key role in shaping the future of mining. Be part of a company that prioritizes safety, sustainability, and employee growth.