Job Description

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.

The Optimization Engineer is responsible for supporting continuous improvement initiatives within mining operations through data analysis, operational performance monitoring, production optimization, and implementation of productivity improvement projects. The role focuses on improving equipment utilization, reducing operational costs, enhancing haulage efficiency, supporting mine planning integration, and driving operational discipline across Load & Haul, fuel management, road performance, and mining support activities.

Key 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.
• Assist in the management and control of Load & Haul operational budgets through collaboration in budget development, cost forecasting, performance tracking, and analysis of operational, statistical, and financial data to support productivity optimization and cost efficiency initiatives.
• Identify operational inefficiencies and develop data-driven improvement initiatives to optimize productivity and cost performance.
• Support implementation and tracking of operational improvement projects across Load & Haul activities.
• Conduct short-haul evaluations, haul route optimization, and dump strategy assessments to improve equipment productivity.
• Support operational forecasting and productivity modelling exercises.
• Tracking or analysis of equipment to ensure there is optimum usage and advise subordinates in the pit where there is found to be excessive under/over utilization of equipment.
• Any duties as required by Management

Qualifications

• Grade 12 Certificate
• Degree in Mining/Mineral Science or any related or equivalent mining qualification
• Valid Blasting License
• First Aid Certificate
• Driver’s License
• ZAQA Qualifications

Experience

• 5 years’ relevant experience in open pit mining is required, of which 3 years’ should be at a supervisory level
• Experience in Load & Haul optimization, productivity analysis, or operational
• Proficiency in Power BI, Microsoft Excel, and SQL data analysis.
• Strong understanding of open-pit mining operations, haulage systems, and mining production processes.
• Proven track record of supervising and managing people.
• A team player and have the ability to work under intense pressure.
• Excellent analytical and communication skills.

Behavioral Traits

• Strong team ethic
• Ability to work independently
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Methodical approach to everyday tasks and problem solving

Operational Requirements

• Ability to work under pressure
• Ability to prioritise and manage multiple tasks
• Must be dependable and self-motivated
• Excellent typing and writing skills
• Must have excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to interact with people of different cultures
• Accurate and precise attention to detail
• Unquestionable integrity
• Work independently and as part of a team.

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