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.
Surface Mining, the Blaster is responsible with the safe, efficient and productive loading of blast holes within the surface mining operation. The incumbent performs all duties for this position in accordance with Company Policies, Management Systems, and Standard Operating Procedures.
Responsibilities:
The incumbent 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.
Read instructions or diagrams, lay out drill pattern and determine depth and diameter of blast holes and conduct field tests to determine type and quantity of explosives required
Assemble or direct Blaster Assistant(s) to assemble primer charges using selected detonators, fuses, detonating cords and other materials
Load explosives in blast holes by hand or direct movement of bulk explosives trucks to load holes or transfer of explosives to and from the surface magazines to the blast hole patterns
Connect electrical wires, detonating cords or fuses into series and connect series to blasting machines; press handle or button to detonate charges
Handle, store and transport explosives and accessories in accordance with regulations and ensure that safety procedures are observed
Demonstrate the ability to always work safe and report all hazards and unsafe working conditions to the Team Leader.
Undertake, with other personnel blast pattern clean-up and removal of explosive storage boxes according to mine site policies and mining regulations.
Assist with clearing personnel from blast areas and with guarding blast perimeter areas.
Learn to maintain explosive magazine inventory control and assist with magazine audits to fulfil the requirements of the management of an explosive magazine in compliance with Mining Regulations.
Qualifications:
Grade 12
Minimum grade 12 or Equivalent.
Holder of a Blasting License
ZAQA Certificate
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First Quantum Minerals Ltd. is a global mining company producing copper and nickel, as well as gold and cobalt. Our growing portfolio of operations and projects spans four continents and employs around 20,000 people.
We are well-known for our ‘can do’ attitude and specialist technical, project management, engineering, construction and operational skills, which allow us to develop and successfully run complex mines and minerals processing plants.
We strive to go beyond the goals set by other companies. After 25 years of operations we are now one of the world’s top 10 copper producers and we focus on providing a tangible benefit from everything we do for employees, investors and the many communities that host our operations.
From our initial operation reprocessing tailings facilities in Zambia, to the recently completed giant Cobre Panama operation, we have recorded many significant commercial and technical achievements over the past two decades. By 2021, the combined output of our mines will be more than 800,000 tonnes of copper per year.
