Plant Operations Manager x1
Job Description
- Plant Operations Manager
- Attain People –
- Free State (Mining Sector)**
The Plant Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing the full operations of the processing plant within a mining environment. This role ensures that production targets are met safely, efficiently, and cost-effectively while maintaining compliance with metallurgical standards, engineering requirements, and organisational policies. The Plant Operations Manager leads production teams, optimises plant performance, drives continuous improvement, and ensures that operational strategies align with the company’s broader business objectives.
Strong leadership, technical expertise, and operational insight are essential, as the role requires managing complex processing systems, coordinating multidisciplinary teams, and ensuring that production processes support sustained efficiency, quality, and safety. The manager will also play a key role in budget management, process optimisation, and stakeholder engagement.
Key Responsibilities
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Oversee and manage all aspects of plant production operations to meet targets and KPIs.
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Ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operation of metallurgical and chemical processes.
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Provide leadership to operational teams and supervisors, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives.
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Drive continuous improvement initiatives to optimise throughput, recovery, and cost efficiency.
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Monitor plant performance, analyse trends, and implement corrective actions where necessary.
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Ensure compliance with mining, metallurgical, engineering, and safety regulations.
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Collaborate with senior management, engineering, and maintenance teams for coordinated operational planning.
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Manage budgets, resource allocation, and operational costs.
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Develop and mentor staff, promoting a culture of safety, excellence, and accountability.
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Ensure that all employees and contractors meet health, safety, and environmental requirements.
Minimum Requirements
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BSc or BTech Degree in Metallurgy or Chemical Engineering.
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MBA or equivalent business qualification (advantageous).
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10 years’ experience in a production environment, with 3–5 years at senior management level.
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Must be able to obtain a Certificate of Medical Fitness.
Key Skills & Competencies
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Strong leadership and managerial capability
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Excellent understanding of metallurgical/chemical processing operations
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Ability to analyse operational data and make strategic decisions
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Strong problem-solving and optimisation skills
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Effective communication and stakeholder-management abilities
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Ability to manage cost control, budgets, and resource planning
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Commitment to safety, environmental compliance, and operational excellence
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High resilience and ability to work in a demanding mining environment