Senior Mine Planning & Design Specialist (Remote)

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 1,990,000 - 2,985,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Senior Mine Planning & Design Specialist to lead strategic open-pit planning and detailed design from a remote location. You will shape project concepts through execution, ensuring safety, sustainability, and economic performance across diverse mining initiatives.

The role requires a minimum of 10 years in mine planning and design, expert knowledge of open-pit methods, and proficiency with Deswik, Vulcan, Surpac, and CAD tools.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in mine planning and design, open-pit focus.
• Proficiency in Deswik, Vulcan, Surpac and CAD tools.
• PE designation (Pr.Eng.) desirable.

Responsibilities

• Develop long-, mid-, and short-term mine plans for open-pit operations.
• Execute detailed mine design tasks (pit shells, haul roads, stockpiles, phase planning).
• Incorporate geotechnical constraints for slope stability and safety.
• Perform economic evaluations to maximize profitability of plans and designs.
• Collaborate with geologists, engineers and operations for integrated planning.
• Utilize Deswik, Vulcan, Surpac and CAD tools.
• Prepare technical reports and regulatory submissions.
• Mentor junior engineers and promote best practices.
• Stay updated on mining technology and planning methodologies.
• Ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Decision making

Communication skills

Independent work

Mentoring

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering

Master's degree advantageous

Tools

Deswik

Vulcan

Surpac

CAD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking leader in the mining industry, is actively seeking an experienced Senior Mine Planning & Design Specialist to join their operations on a fully remote basis. This critical role will focus on the strategic planning and detailed design of open-pit mining operations, utilizing advanced software and innovative methodologies to optimize resource extraction and operational efficiency. You will be instrumental in shaping the future of our mining projects from conceptualization through to execution, ensuring the highest standards of safety, sustainability, and economic performance. This is an unparalleled opportunity to contribute to diverse projects while enjoying the benefits of a remote-first work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and refine long-term, mid-term, and short-term mine plans for open-pit operations, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and resource models.
• Execute detailed mine design tasks, including pit shells, haul roads, stockpiles, and phase planning, using industry-leading software.
• Perform geomechanical assessments and incorporate geotechnical constraints into mine designs to ensure slope stability and operational safety.
• Conduct economic evaluations and optimization studies for mine plans and designs to maximize project profitability.
• Collaborate closely with geologists, engineers, and operational teams to integrate geological data and operational feedback into planning cycles.
• Utilize and manage advanced mine planning software packages such as Deswik, Vulcan, or similar.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, presentations, and documentation for internal stakeholders and regulatory submissions.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the development of best practices in mine planning and design.
• Stay current with advancements in mining technology, software, and planning methodologies.
• Ensure all planning and design activities comply with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or a related technical field; a Master's degree is advantageous.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in mine planning and design, with a strong emphasis on open-pit operations.
• Proven expertise in developing integrated mine plans and detailed designs.
• Advanced proficiency in mine planning software (e.g., Deswik, Vulcan, Surpac) and CAD tools.
• Solid understanding of mining economics, feasibility studies, and resource modeling principles.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities effectively in a remote setting.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts clearly.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng.) designation or equivalent is highly desirable.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary and benefits package, commensurate with experience. As a fully remote position, this role provides exceptional flexibility and work-life balance. You will be part of a collaborative and innovative team, with ample opportunities for professional development and career growth. This is a unique chance to shape significant mining projects from anywhere, contributing to a company that values cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices.

We are an equal opportunity employer.