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:

Overall Job Purpose

The Superintendent, Drilling is responsible for driving mining drilling section performance by ensuring the correct management of the drilling operations by optimizing the assets and equipment and supervising the execution of the activities of his/her subordinates

The role will be responsible for coordinators who oversee the drilling operations in the drilling section and staff in crews. The role will also ensure that drill block discipline is done to standard. Additionally, the role will ensure that the drilling team complies with good drilling practices as well as ensuring adherence to safety practices and mining regulations.

Specific Job Responsibility

• Collaborating with stakeholders or other employees in various aspects of the operation with relevance to the drilling section
• Managing and communicating deadlines to the section
• Overseeing the completion of tasks and making adjustments as may be necessary to ensure they are delivered to specifications and high standards
• Collecting and analysing feedback from stakeholders to gauge satisfaction and success
• Identify potential bottlenecks that could affect production
• Ensure that all operators and personnel entering the work area are adequately inducted on site safety procedures and systems and that these comply to mining standards.
• Ensure all employees are trained, assessed and permitted to do the work. (Driving / operating permits, blasting licenses and first –aid certificate).
• Coach operators in order for them to teach and /or correct unsafe work habits.
• Ensure fatigue management is complied with.
• Ensure that all safety and job-related items are recorded in the Logbook.
• Ensure all accidents, incidents or hazards in the Section are reported and preventative measures are put in place.
• Participate in safety investigations in conjunction with the safety department and implement corrective and preventative controls.
• Ensure drilling procedures are followed.
• Formulate drilling budget and ensure that drilling costs are optimised
• Ensure productivities and utilisation for drilling equipment is maximised
• Ensure drilling compliance to mine plan
• Work with maintenance team to optimise drilling fleet availability by supporting planned maintenance work, reducing operational damages and ensuring that operator skills are maintained to acceptable levels.
• Ensure equipment checklists are duly checked, collected and signed off.
• Ensure Drill pattern demarcation, barricades and signage are of the correct standard.
• Goal-setting to set realistic deadlines and strategize daily, weekly, monthly and quarterly progress
• Any other duties as assigned by the supervisor

Job Specific Competencies

• Machine Operation Monitoring
• Quality Control Analysis
• Working knowledge of drill operations
• Basic knowledge of condition monitoring
• Job specific equipment selection ability
• Excellent knowledge of drilling depth requirements
• Knowledge of drilling related equipment
• Report writing skills
• Knowledge of basic geometry
• Knowledge of drilling sequences and patterns

Key Job Attributes

• Detail Orientated
• Problem Solving
• Professionalism
• Must possess Excellent communication skills
• Problem solving skills
• Must be flexible to work and attend to any shift as assigned
• Ability to multi-task
• Conflict resolution
• Must be an active listener
• Must be a good team player
• Ability to make precise judgment and decisions
• Ability to delegate as and when need arises
• Must be able to effectively manage time
• Must be smart
• Self-driven
• Planning skills
• Must possess managerial courage
• Must demonstrate excellent business acumen
• Process oriented
• Must be an influencer of positive change
• Ability to make precise judgment and decisions based on information and previous
• experience
• Must be able to effectively manage time
• Must be self-driven and ability to work independent with minimum supervision

Experience required to perform in this job

• At least 5 -10 years’ work experience in a mining environment at a senior level
• Demonstrate knowledge on various Drill operation techniques
• Knowledge of various drill operations
• A proven understanding of all mining operational functions

Qualifications

• Full Grade 12 Certificate or equivalent
• BSc Mining Engineering or equivalent
• Valid Zambian driver’s license
• Must be holder of or have the ability to obtain a Zambian Blasting license
• Must be holder of or have the ability to obtain a MSD approved first aid certificate
• Must be a registered member of the Engineering Institute of Zambia