Principal Mining Engineer - Operations

Placements24; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 2,500,000 - 5,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Performance bonuses

Stock options

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Principal Mining Engineer to lead operational excellence for major operations in Sandton, Gauteng. This executive role includes strategic direction, cross-functional team leadership, and the deployment of innovative mining technologies.

You will oversee planning, safety, budgets, and performance to drive production targets while maintaining high standards of regulatory compliance and environmental stewardship.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mining Engineering from an accredited university.
• 12–15 years of progressive mining operations experience with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.

Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all aspects of mining operations, including planning, scheduling, production, maintenance, and safety.
• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to achieve production targets and optimize resource utilization.
• Ensure health, safety, and environmental performance standards are maintained across mining activities.
• Lead and mentor mine management teams, fostering continuous improvement and operational excellence.
• Oversee implementation of new mining technologies to enhance efficiency and productivity.
• Manage operational budgets, control costs and maintain profitability.
• Conduct performance reviews of operations and implement corrective actions.
• Coordinate with geology, metallurgy, and engineering for integrated planning and execution.
• Represent the company in operational matters to regulators and industry bodies.
• Drive safety initiatives, reduce downtime, and improve overall performance.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Budget management

Stakeholder management

Communication

Education

Bachelor's in Mining Engineering

Master's in Mining Engineering

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent leader in the mining sector, is seeking a highly experienced Principal Mining Engineer to lead operational excellence at their significant operations based in Sandton, Gauteng . This executive-level position is responsible for overseeing and optimizing all aspects of mining operations, ensuring safety, efficiency, productivity, and cost-effectiveness. The Principal Mining Engineer will provide strategic direction, manage cross-functional teams, and drive innovation in mining methodologies and technologies. The successful candidate will possess a deep understanding of both underground and surface mining techniques, coupled with strong leadership and management capabilities. This role is critical to the continued success and profitability of our client's mining ventures. You will be instrumental in setting operational standards and achieving ambitious production targets in a challenging environment. Your expertise will guide the operational strategy and execution.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and manage all aspects of mining operations, including planning, scheduling, production, maintenance, and safety.
• Develop and implement strategic operational plans to achieve production targets and optimize resource utilization.
• Ensure the highest standards of health, safety, and environmental performance are maintained across all mining activities.
• Lead and mentor mine management teams, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.
• Oversee the implementation of new mining technologies and methodologies to enhance efficiency and productivity.
• Manage operational budgets, controlling costs and ensuring profitability.
• Conduct regular performance reviews of operations, identifying areas for improvement and implementing corrective actions.
• Liaise with other departments, including geology, metallurgy, and engineering, to ensure integrated operational planning and execution.
• Represent the company in operational matters to stakeholders, regulators, and industry bodies.
• Drive initiatives to improve safety protocols, reduce downtime, and enhance overall operational performance.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mining Engineering from an accredited university.
• A minimum of 12-15 years of progressive experience in mining operations management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role (e.g., Mine Manager, Operations Superintendent).
• Extensive experience with various mining methods (underground and open-pit) and associated technologies.
• Proven track record of successfully managing large-scale mining operations and achieving production targets.
• Deep understanding of mine safety regulations, environmental compliance, and operational best practices.
• Exceptional leadership, team management, and decision-making skills.
• Strong financial acumen and experience in managing large operational budgets.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and stakeholder management abilities.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) registration is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive executive salary package, comprehensive benefits including medical aid, retirement fund, performance bonuses, and stock options.
• This role provides exceptional opportunities for career growth and leadership within a major international mining company.
• You will work in a dynamic environment at the forefront of mining innovation.
• The company is committed to employee development, safety, and fostering a positive work culture.
• Relocation assistance is available for the right candidate.