Chief Mine Surveyor - Underground Operations

Our client, a leading underground mining operator, is seeking a highly experienced and authoritative Chief Mine Surveyor to direct all surveying operations for their extensive facilities near Bloemfontein, Free State. This senior leadership position is responsible for the precise spatial management of underground workings, ensuring the integrity of mine plans, and overseeing compliance with stringent regulatory requirements. You will lead a team of skilled surveyors, implement cutting-edge surveying technologies, and collaborate closely with geotechnical, geological, and engineering departments to ensure safe and efficient mine development and production.

The successful candidate will bring a wealth of experience in underground surveying, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to accuracy and safety in the challenging environment of the Free State mining sector.

• Establish, maintain, and manage the primary control network for all underground mining operations.
• Oversee the detailed survey and mapping of underground excavations, including development ends, stopes, and infrastructure.
• Ensure accurate volumetric calculations for ore, waste, and backfill operations.
• Implement and manage the use of advanced underground surveying instruments and techniques, such as total stations, laser scanners, and potentially UMS.
• Liaise directly with mine planning, geology, and engineering departments to provide essential survey data for design and operational decision-making.
• Ensure all survey data is processed, validated, and archived according to company standards and regulatory requirements (e.g., Chamber of Mines guidelines).
• Manage the surveying team, including recruitment, training, performance evaluation, and ensuring adherence to safety protocols.
• Conduct regular inspections of survey work and equipment to maintain the highest standards of accuracy and reliability.
• Prepare comprehensive survey reports, plans, and sections for internal use and submission to regulatory authorities.

• A Bachelor's degree or National Diploma in Mine Surveying or Geomatics.
• Professional registration as a Professional Mine Surveyor (Pr.Min.Surv) with the South African Geomatics Council (SAGC) is mandatory.
• A minimum of 10 years of extensive experience in mine surveying, with a significant focus on underground mining environments.
• Proven expertise in using advanced underground surveying instruments (e.g., robotic total stations, laser scanners) and associated software (e.g., AutoCAD, Surpac, Deswik).
• Thorough understanding of mining methods and geological structures pertinent to underground operations.
• Demonstrated leadership capabilities and experience managing survey teams.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to effectively interface with various technical departments and management.
• Experience with in the South African mining sector, particularly in the Bloemfontein, Free State region, is highly desirable.

• A competitive salary package reflective of a Chief role, with performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Annual leave and other company-provided benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and advancement within a respected mining group.
• Relocation assistance may be available for suitable candidates moving to the Bloemfontein, Free State area.
• The chance to lead surveying efforts in a significant mining jurisdiction.