Drill and Blast Manager

About the position

Our client is seeking to appoint a Drill & Blast Manager at their mining operation near Rustenburg. This role offers an exciting opportunity for an experienced professional to lead drilling and blasting activities in a demanding open-pit environment.



Responsibilities

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  Oversee drilling and blasting operations to achieve production and fragmentation targets.
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  Manage drilling and blasting contractors, ensuring compliance with contractual obligations.
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  Design and optimise blast patterns, timing, and explosive usage.
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  Ensure adherence to health, safety, environmental, and legal requirements.
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  Monitor blast results and implement continuous improvement initiatives.
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  Control and manage the drilling and blasting budget.
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  Coordinate closely with geology, mining, and plant teams to align blasting with production requirements.
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  Ensure proper handling, storage, and usage of explosives.
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  Prepare and submit reports on blasting performance, incidents, and operational metrics.

Requirements

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  Degree or Diploma in Mining Engineering or related field.
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  Valid Surface Blasting Ticket.
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  8-10 years' experience in open-pit mining with strong focus on drilling and blasting.
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  Minimum 5 years in a supervisory or management role.
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  Proven experience in contractor management.
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  Experience in chrome or similar hard-rock environments advantageous.
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  Valid driver's license.
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  Medical Certificate of Fitness required.

Key Competencies

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  Strong technical expertise in blast design and optimisation.
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  Excellent leadership and contractor management skills.
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  High level of safety awareness and compliance.
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  Strong analytical and problem-solving ability.
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  Effective planning, coordination, and organisational skills.
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  Ability to work under pressure and meet production targets.

Desired Skills:

• drill and blast management
• blast design and optimisation
• open pit mining operations
• budget control and cost management