We’re looking for a talented Section Manager Planning who shares our values and our belief in a better future for mining. Could you be one of them?

Thungela Resources [Thungela means “to ignite” in isiZulu] is a leading South African thermal coal business, focused exclusively on thermal coal production.  It is one of the largest pure-play producers and exporters of thermal coal in South Africa based on aggregate coal reserves and marketable coal production. Thungela focuses on exporting its thermal coal portfolio mainly to the Indian, Asian, Southeast Asian, Middle East and North African markets.

The purpose of a Section Manager is to develop and implement proper business and operational action plans to ensure continuous achievement and uninterrupted production of Thungela Resources operations. The role is also accountable for applying appropriate operational methodologies and procedures to ensure the safety and health of all employees and relevant stakeholders.

• Effective optimisation and Asset Optimisation of the Operations Mine Planning processes and capabilities through improving Standards and providing technical expertise to production team as well as the latest software technologies
• Development of mine plans and schedules for the operation in support of the overall business plan / strategy and preparations of effective mine plans and schedules: 5-year, 2 years forecast as well as Annual, Monthly and Weekly forecast
• Assist with annual Life of Mine Planning and Budget Planning, integration of planning and scheduling with operations and optimisation of reserves and reconciliations
• Provide Technical expertise to production teams and production meetings
• Ensure compliance of Legal and Operational standards, policies and procedures with regards to Mine Planning through overseeing integrated risk management in the design of Mining blocks.
• Assess Risks / Critical points on life of Mine Plan
• Establish strong, sustainable and constructive working relationships with operational management (production, technical & service departments) and external stakeholders e.g. DMPR and external service providers.
• Effective People Management, ensuring that roles are well defined and clarified and that competencies and learning paths are developed to human capacity and capability
• Financial Budgeting & Management
• Eligible to sign off as a Competent Person for Reserves

• B Tech / Diploma/ Degree in Mining Engineering or Geo Science related field (NQF 7)
• A Mine Managers Certificate of competence will be advantageous
• Relevant Professional body registration
• Extensive operational experience in opencast coal mining environment (minimum 8 years) and in-depth knowledge of various mining methods and mining technologies
• In-depth Mine Planning / Design experience
• An in-depth knowledge of legislation relating to the mining industry. E.g. MHSA, MPRDA and Environmental Legislation
• Sound knowledge of Operational Codes of Practices and procedures, and relevant policies, standards and guidelines
• An in-depth knowledge and understanding of the Operational value chain in Opencast Operations
• A good knowledge of Mining, Value Based Management and Asset Optimisation linked to the strategy
• Aware of Best Practices and New Technologies relating to Mine Planning and Design and Mining Operations
• High level of computer literacy including MS Office, and good technical knowledge and skills in various software packages (especially in Mine Planning programmes and Design models)
• High regard to Safety, Regulations and Standards
• Valid driver’s license

Skills

• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Influencing skills
• Sound written and verbal communication skills with advanced report writing skills
• Good interpersonal skills
• Strategic & creative thinking skills
• Flexible thinking skills

What we offer

When you join Mafube Coal, you can expect to enjoy a competitive salary and benefits package. But more than this, you will find yourself in an environment where the opportunities for learning and growth are second to none. From technical training to leadership programmes, we bring out the best in our people. There are plenty of opportunities to move onwards and upwards too.

Inclusion & Diversity

At Mafube Coal, we provide equal opportunities for all. We are committed to promoting an inclusive and diverse workplace, where every colleague is valued and respected for who they are and provide equal opportunities for everyone to fulfil their potential.

How we are committed to your safety

Nothing is more important to us than ensuring you return home safely after a day’s work. To make that happen, we have the most rigorous safety standards in the industry. Not only that, we’re also continually investing in new technologies – from drones to data analytics – that are helping to make mining safer.

How to apply

To apply for this role, please complete our online application form. You will have the opportunity to upload your CV and other relevant documentation as part of this process.