About First Quantum Minerals

At First Quantum, we unleash the full potential of our people through a distinctive culture known as the “First Quantum Way.” We encourage bold, smart approaches to identify opportunities, solve complex challenges, and deliver exceptional results in extraordinary locations worldwide.

Role Overview for Load and Haul Optimization Engineer Jobs in Solwezi

The Optimization Engineer plays a critical role in driving continuous improvement within mining operations. By leveraging data analysis and operational performance monitoring, you will help optimize production processes, enhance equipment utilization, and reduce operational costs. Your efforts will support mine planning integration and improve haulage efficiency, fuel management, and road performance, fostering operational discipline across all Load & Haul activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure compliance with all company policies, legal regulations, and safety standards related to health, environment, quality, finance, and human resources.
• Collaborate in managing Load & Haul operational budgets, including budget development, cost forecasting, and performance tracking.
• Identify inefficiencies and develop data-driven initiatives to optimize productivity and reduce costs.
• Support the implementation and monitoring of operational improvement projects within Load & Haul functions.
• Conduct evaluations of short-haul operations, haul route optimization, and dump strategies to maximize equipment productivity.
• Assist in operational forecasting and productivity modeling exercises.
• Monitor equipment usage, advising pit teams on addressing under- or over-utilization.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by management.

Qualifications and Experience

• Grade 12 Certificate
• Bachelor’s degree in Mining, Mineral Science, or a related mining qualification
• Valid Blasting License, First Aid Certificate, Driver’s License, and ZAQA qualifications
• Minimum of 5 years’ relevant open-pit mining experience, including at least 3 years in a supervisory capacity
• Proven expertise in Load & Haul optimization, productivity analysis, and operational management
• Proficiency with Power BI, Microsoft Excel, and SQL for data analysis
• Strong understanding of open-pit mining operations, haulage systems, and production processes
• Demonstrated leadership skills with a track record of managing teams effectively

Desired Behavioral Traits and Operational Skills

• Strong team ethic while capable of working independently
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Methodical and analytical approach to problem-solving and daily tasks
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple priorities
• Dependable, self-motivated, and detail-oriented with unquestionable integrity
• Ability to interact respectfully with diverse cultures and teams

• Ensure compliance with all company policies, legal regulations, and safety standards related to health, environment, quality, finance, and human resources.
• Collaborate in managing Load & Haul operational budgets, including budget development, cost forecasting, and performance tracking.
• Identify inefficiencies and develop data-driven initiatives to optimize productivity and reduce costs.
• Support the implementation and monitoring of operational improvement projects within Load & Haul functions.
• Conduct evaluations of short-haul operations, haul route optimization, and dump strategies to maximize equipment productivity.
• Assist in operational forecasting and productivity modeling exercises.
• Monitor equipment usage, advising pit teams on addressing under- or over-utilization.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by management.

• Proficiency with Power BI, Microsoft Excel, and SQL for data analysis
• Strong understanding of open-pit mining operations, haulage systems, and production processes
• Demonstrated leadership skills with a track record of managing teams effectively
• Strong team ethic while capable of working independently
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Methodical and analytical approach to problem-solving and daily tasks
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple priorities
• Dependable, self-motivated, and detail-oriented with unquestionable integrity
• Ability to interact respectfully with diverse cultures and teams

• Grade 12 Certificate
• Bachelor’s degree in Mining, Mineral Science, or a related mining qualification
• Valid Blasting License, First Aid Certificate, Driver’s License, and ZAQA qualifications