Lead Mine Planner

About the Role

Our client, a significant mining entity operating in the vicinity of Polokwane, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead Mine Planner specializing in underground operations. This leadership position is crucial for the strategic development and optimization of mining plans, ensuring efficient resource extraction while maintaining the highest standards of safety and environmental stewardship. The successful candidate will oversee the generation of short, medium, and long-term mine plans, integrating geological data, operational constraints, and economic objectives. Based in Polokwane, you will lead a team of talented mine planners and engineers, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. We are looking for an individual with extensive experience in underground mine planning software and a proven ability to manage complex planning cycles. This role offers a substantial impact on major mining projects within the Limpopo province and provides a clear pathway for career advancement.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and manage comprehensive short, medium, and long-term mine plans for underground operations near Polokwane.
• Integrate geological models, resource estimates, and operational data into optimized mine designs.
• Lead and mentor a team of mine planners, surveyors, and engineers.
• Conduct feasibility studies, economic evaluations, and sensitivity analyses for mine planning scenarios.
• Ensure mine plans comply with all safety, health, and environmental regulations applicable in Limpopo.
• Optimize stope designs, development sequences, and production scheduling to maximize ore recovery and minimize dilution.
• Evaluate and recommend appropriate mining methods and equipment for underground operations.
• Collaborate effectively with geologists, metallurgists, and operations personnel.
• Present mine plans and technical recommendations to senior management and stakeholders.
• Stay current with advancements in mine planning software and mining technologies.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or a related discipline.
• A Master's degree is highly desirable.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in underground mine planning and design.
• Expertise in mine planning software such as Deswik, MinePlan, or Vulcan is essential.
• Strong understanding of various underground mining methods (e.g., LHD, drill and blast, cut and fill).
• Proven experience in resource modeling and reserve estimation integration.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills.
• Strong communication and presentation abilities.
• Familiarity with South African mining legislation and industry best practices.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-related bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical aid, life insurance, and retirement benefits.
• Relocation assistance for candidates relocating to the Polokwane area.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.
• Involvement in challenging and strategically important mining projects in Limpopo.
• Access to advanced planning tools and technologies.
• A dynamic and supportive work culture.
• Generous annual leave and leave benefits.