Planning Manager - Kathu at Tshipi E Ntle Manganese Mining

JOB PURPOSE

Responsible for managing and establishing written guidelines for directing the mine's resources in accordance with short-, medium and long-term plans. Analyses information and provides feedback on achievement against targets. Makes recommendations to management on the implementation of the planning procedures developed. Accountable for coordinating and overseeing the planning activities related to mining operations and involves developing and implementing plans that optimize the extraction of mineral resources while considering factors such as safety, environmental impact, and economic feasibility.

KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS

Mine design and planning:

• Develop detailed mine designs that outline the layout of mining operations, including the location of shafts, tunnels, and other infrastructure.
• Conduct regular evaluations of mine plans to identify and implement optimization opportunities.
• Plan and design changes and cut-backs (pit designs) as per most effective and efficient beneficiation.
• Effectively communicate mine plans and objectives to key stakeholders, including management, regulatory authorities, and on-site staff.

Mineral evaluation and reserve declaration:

• Assess and analyze geological data to determine the quantity and quality of mineral resources in given blocks/areas.
• Create plans for efficient extraction of minerals, taking into account factors such as ore grades, equipment capabilities, and processing methods.

Scheduling and collaboration:

• Develop mining schedules that optimize the use of equipment, personnel, and resources to meet production targets.
• Work closely with other departments, including geology, engineering, and environmental management, to integrate their expertise into the mine planning process.
• Manage short-term planning accountabilities and staff.

Cost estimation:

• Estimate the costs associated with mining operations, including capital expenditures, operating costs, and maintenance expenses.
• Technology implementation and continuous improvement:
• Stay updated on advancements in mining technology and software tools to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of mine planning        activities.
• Implement systems for monitoring and evaluating the performance of mining operations and recommend improvements to enhance efficiency and sustainability.

Risk assessment and regulatory compliance:

• Identify and assess potential risks associated with mining operations, and develop strategies to mitigate these risks.
• Manage mine plans and ensure they comply with local, provincial and national regulations and Acts related to mine safety and environmental protection.
• Adhere to, and enforce rigorously prescribed operating and safety standards, while diligently identifying and promptly escalating potential risks that may lead to escalated costs.

Financial perspective:

• Develop and manage budgets for mine planning activities, ensuring that financial goals are met.
• Monitor and control costs associated with drilling, blasting, equipment utilization, and other mine planning activities.
• Exhibit fiscal responsibility by showcasing proficiency in budget management and cost awareness, actively seeking and executing cost-saving initiatives within the mine planning function.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED

• B.Sc. or B Tech - Mining Engineering or similar

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED

• 6 years’ relevant experience in mining engineering and planning
• Open cast mining experience

PREFERRED REQUIREMENTS FOR THE POST

Qualification: 

• M.Sc. or M Tech -Mining Engineering or similar
• Project management / planning certification
• ECSA Registration

Experience:

• Exposure to relevant mine planning software packages (e.g. Surpac,  MineSched)
• Manganese mining experience advantageous