Area Supervisor, Production – Drilling

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.

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Job title:                                             Area Supervisor, Production – Drilling

Site:                                                    Kansanshi Mining Plc

Department:                                       Mine Production

Section:                                              Mine Production – Drilling

Position reports to:                            Shift Supervisor, Production – Drills

Direct reports:                                    Drillers, Operators and Assistant Operators

Purpose

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The Area Supervisor, Production – Drilling is responsible for the safe, efficient, and productive supervision of blast hole drilling operations within the surface mining environment. The role supports the Shift Supervisor and Mine Captain by providing oversight and technical guidance to drilling crews, ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols, operational standards, and productivity targets. The incumbent ensures compliance with company policies, standard operating procedures, and statutory requirements while fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

This position 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.
Supervise and coordinate daily activities of drill crews; schedule work, assign tasks, and requisition materials or repair services as needed.
Train team members on job duties, safety procedures, equipment handling, and company policies.
Resolve operational challenges and recommend measures to improve safety, efficiency, and productivity.
Promote and enforce a strong culture of “Safety & Health above all else” with a target of zero incidents.
Oversee proper operating practices for mobile drilling equipment to minimize damage and optimize performance.
Conduct shift handovers effectively, ensuring proper communication and documentation using status boards, changeover books, and level plans.
Maintain discipline and professional conduct within the team, upholding company behavioral standards.
Build and maintain productive relationships with internal departments and external stakeholders.
Interpret drilling plans, specifications, and survey data to guide field operations.
Delegate tasks effectively, aligning team strengths with operational goals.
Provide leadership and mentorship to build a high-performing drilling team.
Report deviations, risks, and unplanned events to the Mine Captain in a timely manner.
Ensure crews have the correct tools, equipment, and information to execute duties.
Support HR-related functions including performance evaluations, disciplinary actions, and participation in hiring processes.
Contribute to departmental improvement initiatives and champion best practices in drilling operations.
Perform any other duties as assigned by the Shift Supervisor or Coordinators

Qualifications

Grade Twelve (12) Certificate or equivalent
Certificate or Diploma in Mining Engineering or Equivalent
Supervisory Certificate will be a must
Blasting License holder
First Aid certificate holder

Experience

Minimum 6 years’ experience in an open pit-mining environment.
Familiarity with the use of tools, fixtures and equipment for blasting aids
Experience in drilling techniques, equipment, and technologies
Experience with ultra-class mining equipment preferred
Prior experience in the similar role
Experience working with High precision drilling system preferably Wenco

BEHAVIOURAL TRAITS

Passion for coaching and development
Honesty and integrity
Good interpersonal, written and oral communication skills
Self-motivated individual with the ability to work under pressure with minimal supervision
Problem solving skills, analytical skills and the ability to make decisions quickly
Practice organisational and team leader skills
Knowledge of process improvement and validation
Able to identify and investigate trends
Promote a cooperative atmosphere that cultivates a positive work culture among artisans.

OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Standby work required
Overtime work when necessary
Exposure to dust, heat and noise
PC Literacy
An understanding of relevant legislation, policies and procedures