About Company
Exxaro Resources is a leading South African diversified resources company with a strong focus on coal, and an expanding interest in mineral sands and iron ore. We are committed to powering better lives through sustainable and responsible mining practices. Operating primarily in South Africa, Exxaro plays a crucial role in the country’s energy security and economic development. Our Grootegeluk Mine in Lephalale, Limpopo, is one of the largest open-pit coal mines globally, providing high-quality coal for both domestic power generation and international markets. We pride ourselves on innovation, operational excellence, and a deep commitment to the safety and well-being of our employees and the communities in which we operate. Joining Exxaro means becoming part of a forward-thinking organisation that values integrity, teamwork, and the continuous development of its people.
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Job Description
We are seeking a highly skilled, dedicated, and safety-conscious Instrument Technician to join our robust team at the world-renowned Grootegeluk Mine in Lephalale, Limpopo. This pivotal role offers the opportunity to contribute significantly to the operational excellence of one of South Africa’s largest and most technologically advanced open-pit coal mines. As an Instrument Technician, you will be at the forefront of ensuring the precision, reliability, and optimal functioning of a diverse array of critical instrumentation and sophisticated control systems that underpin our entire mining process. Your responsibilities will span from performing routine preventative maintenance, intricate calibration, and swift corrective repairs on a wide range of equipment – including flow, pressure, temperature, level, and analytical instruments – to expertly managing telemetry systems, safety interlocks, and advanced automation platforms like PLCs and SCADA.
This position demands a meticulous approach to diagnostics and troubleshooting of complex electrical, electronic, and pneumatic faults within a demanding heavy industrial environment. You will be a vital link, collaborating closely with our engineering, production, and mechanical maintenance teams to proactively identify potential issues, implement innovative solutions, and drive continuous improvement initiatives. A core aspect of your role will involve enhancing operational efficiency, significantly reducing unscheduled downtime, and ensuring unwavering compliance with stringent local and international safety, environmental, and quality standards. The successful candidate will possess a profound ability to interpret complex technical drawings, P&IDs (Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams), schematics, and loop diagrams, translating them into actionable maintenance strategies. Maintaining accurate and comprehensive records of all maintenance activities, calibration data, and equipment modifications is also paramount. We are looking for a proactive problem-solver with exceptional attention to detail, capable of thriving under pressure and demonstrating a steadfast commitment to Exxaro’s safety-first culture. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced professional to advance their career within a leading resources company, contributing directly to the sustained success and technological advancement of a key national asset.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform routine calibration, maintenance, and repair of industrial instrumentation and control systems, including flow, pressure, temperature, level, and analytical instruments.
- Conduct fault-finding and diagnostic testing on complex electrical, electronic, and pneumatic control circuits and systems.
- Install, commission, and troubleshoot new instrumentation and control equipment according to engineering specifications and industry best practices.
- Interpret and work from technical drawings, P&IDs, wiring diagrams, and equipment manuals.
- Implement and adhere to preventative maintenance schedules to minimise equipment downtime and optimise performance.
- Maintain accurate records of all maintenance activities, calibration data, and equipment modifications.
- Ensure all work is performed in strict compliance with safety regulations, company policies, and environmental standards.
- Collaborate with other engineering and maintenance disciplines to resolve complex operational issues.
- Participate in root cause analysis for instrumentation-related failures and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
- Provide technical support and guidance to production operators regarding instrument operation and troubleshooting.
- Assist in the development and modification of control strategies and system enhancements.
Required Skills
- National Diploma or NQF Level 6 equivalent in Electrical Engineering, Instrumentation, or Process Control.
- Minimum of 4 years of proven experience as an Instrument Technician in a heavy industrial environment (mining, power generation, or similar).
- Proficiency in calibrating and maintaining a wide range of process instrumentation.
- Strong fault-finding and troubleshooting skills for electrical, electronic, and pneumatic control systems.
- Experience with PLC (Programmable Logic Controllers) and SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems.
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, P&IDs, and loop diagrams.
- Solid understanding of industrial communication protocols (e.g., Modbus, Profibus, Ethernet/IP).
- Commitment to safety protocols and procedures, with a good understanding of Lockout/Tagout (LOTO).
- Valid driver’s license.
Preferred Qualifications
- Trade Test Certificate as an Instrument Mechanician or relevant qualification.
- Familiarity with specific control systems used in mining operations (e.g., Rockwell Automation, Siemens).
- Experience with SAP PM (Plant Maintenance) module or similar CMMS (Computerised Maintenance Management System).
- Knowledge of cybersecurity principles as they apply to industrial control systems (ICS).
- First Aid and advanced safety training certifications.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
- Comprehensive medical aid scheme.
- Provident Fund / Pension Scheme.
- Generous annual leave.
- Opportunities for professional development and training.
- Safe and supportive working environment.
- Employee assistance programs.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by clicking on the application link below. Please ensure your resume is up-to-date and highlights your relevant experience and qualifications for this role. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.
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