Job Description

Job Purpose

To carry out welding, fabrication, and repair work on mining and processing equipment to ensure safe, reliable, and continuous operation of the zinc plant during day shift hours.

Key Responsibilities

Welding & Fabrication

Perform welding using:

• Arc welding (SMAW)
• MIG / TIG welding (where applicable)
• Fabricate, repair, and modify:
• Steel structures
• Chutes, bins, and hoppers
• Pipes and pipelines
• Conveyor frames and guards
• Follow engineering drawings and specifications

Maintenance & Repairs

Repair plant equipment such as:

• Crushers and screens
• Conveyors and rollers
• Mill components
• Flotation structures
• Conduct planned and breakdown maintenance welding tasks
• Reinforce worn or damaged components

Inspection & Preparation

• Inspect equipment before welding to determine:
• Extent of wear or damage
• Required materials and methods

Prepare surfaces by:

• Cutting
• Grinding
• Cleaning metal

Safety Compliance

Adhere to all mine safety procedures (e.g., MHSA standards)

Follow hot work permit procedures

Use correct PPE:

• Welding helmet
• Gloves
• Fire-resistant clothing
• Ensure fire prevention measures are in place during welding

Coordination & Communication

Work closely with:

• Fitters and boilermakers
• Maintenance teams
• Supervisors and planners
• Communicate job progress and report issues
• Assist in shutdown maintenance and project work

Housekeeping & Equipment Care

• Maintain welding equipment in good condition
• Ensure work areas are clean and safe
• Store tools and materials properly

Typical Equipment Worked On

• Conveyors (frames, idlers, pulleys)
• Crushers and feeders
• Mill liners and structures
• Pipes (slurry, water, air lines)
• Structural steelwork
• Tanks, chutes, and hoppers

Required Skills & Competencies

Technical Skills

Proficiency in:

• Arc welding (essential)
• MIG/TIG welding (advantageous)

Ability to:

• Read technical drawings
• Use cutting torches and grinders
• Knowledge of metals, alloys, and welding techniques

Core Competencies

• Attention to detail
• Good hand-eye coordination
• Problem-solving ability
• Ability to work under pressure during breakdowns
• Strong safety awareness

Qualifications & Experience

Minimum Requirements

• Grade 12 (Matric)
• Valid welding certificate
• Preferred Qualifications
• Trade certificate (Boilermaker / Welder Artisan)

Experience

• 2–5 years' experience in:
• Mining or heavy industry
• Plant maintenance welding
• Working with industrial equipment