About Company
Afrimat is a leading black-empowered open pit mining and aggregates group providing a broad spectrum of products and services to the construction, roadbuilding, and mining sectors. With operations spanning across Southern Africa, we are committed to sustainable practices, innovation, and fostering a safe and empowering work environment for our employees. Our diversified product offering includes industrial minerals, aggregates, concrete products, and readymix, playing a crucial role in the development of essential infrastructure. At Afrimat, we believe in unlocking potential, both in our resources and our people. We are driven by a culture of operational excellence, safety first, and continuous improvement, ensuring that we contribute positively to the communities where we operate while delivering superior value to our stakeholders.
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Job Description
Afrimat is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Blasting Foreman to join our dynamic team in Phiritona, Free State. This pivotal role involves the safe and efficient execution of all blasting operations, crucial to our mining and quarrying activities. The successful candidate will be responsible for planning, supervising, and directing a team of blasters and support staff, ensuring strict adherence to all legislative requirements, company policies, and best practice safety standards. You will play a critical role in optimizing blast designs, managing drilling and charging processes, and maintaining meticulous records of all blasting activities. This position demands a leader with exceptional technical expertise, a strong commitment to safety, and proven ability to manage operations effectively in a challenging environment. If you are a proactive problem-solver with a meticulous eye for detail and a passion for leading high-performance teams, we invite you to contribute your skills to a company that values expertise and fosters professional growth. You will be instrumental in ensuring the continuity of our operations, contributing directly to our production targets, and upholding Afrimat’s reputation for operational excellence and safety.
Key Responsibilities
- Plan, organize, and oversee all aspects of blasting operations in accordance with approved blast designs and schedules.
- Ensure strict compliance with the Mine Health and Safety Act, relevant regulations, and company safety procedures at all times.
- Supervise and lead a team of blasters and support personnel, providing guidance, training, and performance feedback.
- Conduct pre-blast inspections, risk assessments, and secure blast sites prior to detonation.
- Manage the ordering, storage, handling, and distribution of explosives, ensuring proper inventory control and security.
- Optimize blast patterns and drilling sequences to achieve desired fragmentation, minimize environmental impact, and maximize yield.
- Oversee the proper loading and priming of blast holes, ensuring correct charge weights and initiation sequences.
- Maintain accurate records of all blasting activities, including explosive consumption, blast reports, and incident reports.
- Inspect and maintain blasting equipment, ensuring it is in safe working condition and calibrated correctly.
- Collaborate with other operational departments (drilling, loading, hauling) to ensure seamless workflow and efficient production.
- Investigate and report all incidents and non-conformances related to blasting operations, implementing corrective actions.
- Promote a strong safety culture within the team and actively participate in safety meetings and initiatives.
Required Skills
- Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent qualification.
- Blasting Certificate for Opencast Mines (or relevant equivalent).
- Valid Medical Certificate of Fitness for Blasting Operations.
- Minimum of 4 years’ practical experience as a Blasting Foreman or Blaster in a mining or quarrying environment.
- Proven experience in blast design, drilling patterns, and explosive management.
- Strong understanding of the Mine Health and Safety Act and other relevant legislation.
- Excellent leadership, supervisory, and communication skills.
- Ability to read and interpret plans and geological maps.
- Valid Code 08 (B) driver’s license.
Preferred Qualifications
- Diploma or Certificate in Mining Engineering or related field.
- Additional certifications in first aid, fire fighting, or advanced safety.
- Experience with electronic blasting systems and software.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel).
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary package.
- Medical aid contributions.
- Provident fund contributions.
- Opportunities for professional development and training.
- Career growth within a leading industry player.
- Safe and supportive working environment.
- Performance-based incentives.
How to Apply
Interested candidates who meet the above requirements are encouraged to apply by clicking on the application link below. Please ensure your CV is up-to-date and highlights your relevant experience and qualifications for this role. We look forward to reviewing your application.
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