First Quantum Minerals
General Role Purpose:
The role will be responsible for the development and implementation of Drill & Blast Management systems, continuous improvement and execution of drill & blast designs, mine planning, data management and analysis, and development of the drill & blast team through training and mentoring.
Core Specific Responsibilities & Expected Deliverables
- Operate within and observe all relevant and applicable laws and regulations.
- Take a leading role in respecting and complying with the health, safety and environmental practices of the organisation.
- Design, plan, monitor and report on all Drill & Blast activities to ensure a productive and efficient mining operation.
- Develop short and medium term drill & blast bench master plans and designs.
- Predict and ensure blast fragmentation optimises downstream processes including load & haul activities, crusher and mill throughputs.
- Manage QA/QC process, safety & procedural compliance in drill & blast process.
- Guide the compilation of data for and writing of the daily, weekly, monthly and annual reports.
- Develop, maintain & update the drill & blast management plan.
- Collection, analysis and interpretation of drill & blast data and management of data management and reporting systems.
- Consult with the site geological/geotechnical engineer to manage and optimise pit wall stability.
- Liaise with Operational Supervisors/Superintendents and Contractors to ensure drilling and blasting activities are carried out in a safe and efficient manner.
- Coordination and review of drilling and loading QA/QC data and blast performance data, including but not limited to fragmentation, shovel/excavator productivity, material movement, wall quality and condition and ore dilution and loss from blasting.
- Identify and implement drill and blast related continuous improvement initiatives.
- Train and mentor personnel in drill & blast planning, design, in-field execution, QAQC systems and analysis.
- Perform other related duties as and when required as per the instruction of the department Lead or Manager.
Behavioural Traits & Personal Characteristics
- Bolder: Flexible, versatile, and prepared to take on challenges as needed.
- Smarter: always looks for efficiencies and better ways of doing things.
- Driven: Sets high standards, is motivated and determined.
- Together: communicates well with peers and understand others views.
- Committed to health and safety.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to work within a team environment and independently.
- Ability to work in a multi-cultural environment.
- Committed to train and mentor others.
Operational Requirements
- This position is based on-site and will be focusing on driving and delivering drill and blast technical expertise in planning, design, QAQC and optimisation.
- Rosters and working hours may vary depending on business requirements.
Environmental Responsibilities
- Comply with current, regional environmental regulations.
- Comply with the commitments contained in the Environmental Impact Studies and other additional studies in this regard, which apply to your area and activities.
- Comply with the provisions of the Mine Sites Environmental Management System.
Qualifications, Knowledge & Experience
- BSc Degree or higher in Engineering Mining or equivalent.
- More than 5 years of direct drill and blast technical experience.
- More than 8 years of open cut experience in mining technical and/or operational roles.
- Computer skills include proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point, and Project) and advanced skills with blast design software, mine planning and design software and business intelligence software.
- Skilled in wall control blast design techniques, including but not limited to presplit and trim or buffer blasting.
- Experienced designing blasts using detonating cord, non-electric and electronic initiating systems.
- Proven capability to develop and write safe operating procedures.
- Able to lead incident investigations involving drill & blast and explosive usage.
- Manage and mitigate drill and blast related risks for the operation.
- Project management qualifications and experience.
- Valid driver’s license.