For our client, a prestigious iron ore producer based in West Africa, we are seeking a highly skilled Senior Drill and Blast Mining Engineer. This pivotal role is essential for optimising the drill and blast function at a large-scale open pit operation.

About the Role:

The Senior Drill and Blast Mining Engineer will supervise and coordinate the drill and blast team, providing key technical input for short-term mine planning and scheduling. Reporting to the Chief Mining Engineer, this role is responsible for the design, planning, and optimisation of all blasting activities to improve fragmentation and ensure geotechnical compliance. The position is site-based and includes a strong focus on mentoring and developing junior national engineers.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and optimise blast masters, designs, and shot timing using geological data and mine plans to produce executable patterns.
• Continuously assess and refine blasting parameters, including burden, spacing, and timing, to improve fragmentation and ensure pit wall stability.
• Liaise with senior planning engineers to develop blast plans that align with equipment capacities and short- to long-term mine strategies.
• Prepare monthly drill and blast cost reconciliations, forecasts, and assist in the development of departmental budgets.
• Develop and take ownership of the blasting sign-off procedure, ensuring all activities comply with company and regulatory safety standards.
• Champion a proactive safety culture, ensuring all drill and blast planning supports a Zero Harm environment.
• Provide comprehensive training, coaching, and knowledge transfer to junior engineers and technical staff as a key part of daily responsibilities.
• Deputise for the Chief Mining Engineer as required.

Requirements:

• A Bachelor’s degree (BSc) in Mining Engineering.
• A minimum of 5 years of dedicated drill and blast experience in a large-scale, hard-rock open pit mining operation.
• Proficiency in modern drill and blast planning and design software (e.g., Surpac, Deswik, ShotPlus).
• Must possess a valid Blasting License/Ticket.
• Proven experience in training, coaching, and mentoring subordinate personnel for effective succession planning.
• Experience with contractor management is highly desirable.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively in a multicultural team.
• Fluency in English is essential.

If you are interested – or know someone who could be a good fit – please send your CV through to Alex at alewis@aerinternational.com.