Supervisor, Mechanical

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.

Job description:

Purpose of the Role

To supervise, coordinate, and execute mechanical maintenance and repair activities within the flotation plant to ensure equipment reliability, process efficiency, and compliance with health, safety, and environmental standards. The role focuses on maximizing plant availability and minimizing downtime through effective planning, supervision, and execution of mechanical work.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Supervision

Lead and supervise the daily mechanical maintenance operations in the flotation area (flotation cells, agitators, pumps, compressors, tanks, etc.).
Ensure that planned and unplanned maintenance activities are executed efficiently and safely.
Monitor mechanical equipment condition and recommend predictive, preventative, and corrective actions.
Coordinate and support plant shutdowns, start-ups, and emergency repairs.
Collaborate with operations, electrical, instrumentation, and process teams to ensure smooth plant performance.

Team Management

Supervise and coach a team of mechanical fitters, artisans, and support personnel.
Allocate tasks based on priorities and ensure manpower is optimally utilized.
Monitor performance, ensure discipline, and conduct job assessments and training needs analysis.
Promote teamwork, motivation, and high safety standards within the team.

Maintenance Planning & Execution

Assist in the development of preventive maintenance schedules and ensure they are adhered to.
Support the planning department by identifying spare part requirements and long lead items.
Review and close work orders, and ensure maintenance records are accurate and up to date.
Raise notifications and requisitions for required materials/tools using the CMMS (e.g., SAP or Pronto).

Health, Safety, and Compliance

Enforce compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental (HSE) standards.
Participate in risk assessments, safety audits, toolbox talks, and incident investigations.
Ensure the use of appropriate PPE and safe working practices across all tasks.
Identify potential mechanical hazards and recommend mitigation measures.

Qualifications

Full Grade 12 School Certificate.
Craft/Advanced Certificate or Diploma in Mechanical Engineering or Fitting.
Member of the Engineering Institution of Zambia (EIZ).
Additional training in flotation plant operations, leadership, and maintenance planning is an advantage.

Experience

Minimum of 5 years in mechanical maintenance in a mineral processing or flotation plant environment.
At least 2 years in a supervisory or team lead role.
Hands-on experience with slurry pumps, agitators, flotation cells, gearboxes, and mechanical seals.
Experience working with computerized maintenance systems (e.g., SAP, Pronto, or Maximo).

Behavioral Traits

Strong leadership and interpersonal skills.
Results-oriented with a focus on continuous improvement.
High sense of responsibility, integrity, and accountability.
Ability to work under pressure and handle multiple tasks.
Proactive approach to problem-solving and planning.

Operational Requirements

Ability to work shifts, weekends, and on-call when needed.
Physically fit and medically cleared for plant conditions.
Comfortable working in wet, dusty, and noisy conditions.
Moderate computer literacy (MS Office, CMMS platforms).