Senior Rock Blasting Engineer

Placements24; Midrand; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration package

Medical aid and retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 in Midrand, Gauteng, seeks a Senior Rock Blasting Engineer to oversee and optimise blasting operations across mining projects. The role requires robust leadership, advanced blasting design, and compliance with safety and environmental standards.

The successful candidate will manage blasting crews, work with planning and geology teams, and contribute to project success and operational integrity within a leading mining organization.

Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Mining or Civil Engineering from an accredited institution.
• Minimum 7 years of progressive experience in rock blasting within mining.
• Professional registration with ECSA or equivalent is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Develop blasting plans and designs for mining operations focusing on fragmentation and safety.
• Conduct site assessments and geological surveys to inform blast design.
• Supervise blasting crews and enforce safety protocols and SOPs.
• Utilise blast modelling software to optimise parameters for efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Monitor vibration, air overpressure, and flyrock to meet regulatory and project requirements.
• Perform post-blast analysis and fragmentation reconciliation to identify improvement areas.
• Provide technical training to junior engineers and blasting personnel.
• Maintain records and prepare detailed technical reports for management.
• Collaborate with mine planning, geology and engineering teams for integrated execution.

Skills

Rock blasting

Leadership

Blast design

Geology

Software fitness

Education

Bachelor's in Mining or Civil Engineering

Tools

Orica Blastmap

Deswik Blast

VECTAN

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading player in the mining industry , is seeking an experienced and highly skilled Senior Rock Blasting Engineer to join their dynamic team. This pivotal role is based in the vibrant operational hub of Midrand, Gauteng . The successful candidate will be instrumental in overseeing and optimizing all blasting operations, ensuring safety, efficiency, and environmental compliance. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to significant projects and advance your career within a reputable organization known for its commitment to innovation and operational excellence. We are looking for a dedicated professional with a proven track record in complex blasting scenarios within the mining sector. Your expertise will directly impact project success and operational integrity, making this a highly rewarding position.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage comprehensive blasting plans and designs for various mining operations, ensuring optimal fragmentation and safety.
• Conduct detailed site assessments and geological surveys to inform blast design and execution.
• Supervise and guide blasting crews, ensuring adherence to all safety protocols and standard operating procedures.
• Utilize advanced blast modelling software to predict and analyze blast outcomes, optimizing parameters for efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Monitor and control vibration, air overpressure, and flyrock to meet regulatory and project-specific requirements.
• Conduct post-blast analysis, including fragmentation assessment and reconciliations, to identify areas for improvement.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental legislation and company policies.
• Provide technical expertise and training to junior engineers and blasting personnel.
• Maintain accurate records of all blasting activities and prepare detailed technical reports for management.
• Collaborate with mine planning, geology, and engineering departments to ensure integrated project execution.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field from an accredited institution.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in rock blasting engineering, specifically within the mining sector .
• Professional registration with ECSA (Engineering Council of South Africa) or equivalent is highly advantageous.
• In-depth knowledge of explosives, initiation systems, and blasting techniques.
• Proficiency in blast design and modelling software (e.g., Orica Blastmap, Deswik Blast, VECTAN).
• Strong understanding of mining methods, geology, and rock mechanics.
• Excellent knowledge of safety regulations and best practices in blasting operations.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel to various mine sites as required.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive remuneration package, including a generous basic salary, performance bonuses, and comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Employees will have access to ongoing professional development opportunities, including further training and certifications.
• This role provides a challenging yet rewarding work environment with opportunities for career advancement within a leading organization in the mining industry.
• Relocation assistance may be provided for candidates relocating to Midrand, Gauteng .
• The company fosters a culture of safety and innovation, ensuring a supportive and productive workplace.
• Long-term career prospects are excellent for dedicated individuals.