At First Quantum, we free the talent of our people by taking a very different approach which is underpinned by a very different, very definite culture – the “First Quantum Way”.

Working with us is not like working anywhere else, which is why we recruit people who will take a bolder, smarter approach to spot opportunities, solve problems and deliver results.

Our culture is all about encouraging you to think independently and to challenge convention to deliver the best result. That’s how we continue to achieve extraordinary things in extraordinary locations.

Job description:

Purpose

This is a dynamic role within the Mining Engineering team, focusing on specific problems relating to grade reconciliation, process optimization, and blast movement monitoring. This position is pivotal for the research, development, and implementation of innovative projects in a technically challenging mining environment.

Key Responsibilities

The holder of this position will be required to adhere to all relevant requirements, policies, procedures and legal regulations pertaining to health, safety, environment and quality, as well as finance, human resources, and any other regulations as required by the company and relevant to the level of the role and responsibilities of the function. Key responsibilities will include:

Lead and manage special projects from inception to completion, ensuring alignment with the mine’s strategic objectives and industry best practices.
Conduct thorough research and analysis on the latest mining technologies, with a focus on mining spatial data.
Evaluate and propose improvements to current mining processes, aiming for increased efficiency, reduced costs, and enhanced safety.
Develop and implement project plans, including timelines, budgets, and resource allocation, while closely collaborating with cross-functional teams.
Maintain current reporting tools, ensuring data quality, consistency and recency.
Prepare detailed reports and presentations for management that summarize research findings, project progress, and recommendations for new initiatives.
Stay informed about advancements in mining technology and methodology, attending conferences, and establishing relationships with industry experts and vendors.
Drive a culture of continuous improvement, encouraging the adoption of new technologies and practices that contribute to operational excellence
Advise and support direct reports in the execution of their duties and counsel employees regarding poor performance
Attend daily, weekly and monthly planning meetings with mine production [contractors].
Provide training and development opportunities for all direct reports on an ongoing basis, with a particular focus on Zambian employees
Other duties as directed by the Senior Engineer and Chief Mining Engineer

Qualifications and Skills:

BEng/BSc in Mining Engineering.
Strong proficiency in English, with exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
Proficient in common 3D mining software packages such as Surpac, Datamine (Studio RM), and Deswik.
Advanced skills in Microsoft Office packages – Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Power BI.
Ability to work with GIS software packages such as QGIS will be highly advantageous
Some knowledge of Python will be highly advantageous
Some knowledge of SQL will be highly advantageous
Demonstrated ability to engage in hands-on problem-solving.
Results-driven with a strong focus on delivering outcomes.
Effective people management skills and the ability to lead a team.
Experience:

A minimum of 3 years of experience in an open-pit mining environment (preferably copper).
Behavioural Traits:

Ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic team setting.
Proactive and willing to take bold initiatives.
Commitment to safety and quality standards.
Technical aptitude with a keen attention to detail.

Operational Requirements:

Willingness to work overtime and be on standby as required.
Ability to work in environments with dust and heat.
Possession of a valid driver’s license.