About Company
Palabora Mining Company (PMC) is a dynamic, multi-commodity producer located in Phalaborwa, Limpopo, South Africa. As a leading player in the mining and metals sector, PMC has a rich history dating back decades, operating a large-scale open-pit mine that produces copper, magnetite, vermiculite, and other valuable by-products. Our operations are characterized by advanced technological applications, a deep commitment to sustainable practices, and a strong focus on community development. At PMC, we pride ourselves on fostering a culture of safety, innovation, and continuous improvement. We invest in our people, providing an environment where professional growth and development are highly valued. Join our team and become part of a legacy of excellence and a future of innovation in the heart of Limpopo.
Job Description
Palabora Mining Company (PMC), a proud beacon of industrial innovation and a leading multi-commodity producer located in the vibrant heart of Phalaborwa, Limpopo, is actively seeking a highly skilled, dedicated, and safety-conscious Marine Engineer to enrich our esteemed Engineering and Maintenance team. While our operations are primarily land-based, the core principles of marine engineering – encompassing robust mechanical systems, complex fluid dynamics, stringent corrosion control, heavy machinery maintenance, and the sophisticated management of large-scale water and slurry systems – are profoundly relevant and absolutely critical to the intricate health and sustained efficiency of our vast mining and mineral processing infrastructure.
As a Marine Engineer specializing in Industrial Vessel and System Maintenance at PMC, you will assume a pivotal role in guaranteeing the optimal performance, unwavering reliability, and paramount safety of our extensive industrial plant. This encompasses the critical oversight of large-capacity pumps, intricate and expansive pipeline networks, specialized processing vessels (such as thickeners, flotation cells, leaching tanks, and various storage vessels), as well as sophisticated water treatment and tailings management facilities that are indispensable for our continuous operational success. Your distinct expertise will be instrumental in meticulously maintaining the structural integrity, operational efficiency, and longevity of these vital ‘vessels’ and their associated mechanical and hydraulic machinery, which are engineered to handle immense volumes of slurries, process water, and diverse chemical solutions under some of the most demanding industrial conditions imaginable.
This challenging yet immensely rewarding position calls for a proactive, analytical, and hands-on professional who excels in advanced problem-solving, strategic preventative maintenance planning, and the rigorous implementation of industry-leading best practices. Your contributions will directly minimize operational downtime, extend the lifecycle of our valuable assets, and significantly enhance overall productivity. You will be expected to expertly diagnose complex mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic issues, meticulously oversee intricate repairs, and rigorously ensure absolute compliance with all stringent safety protocols, environmental regulations, and quality standards. The ideal candidate will bring a formidable understanding of fundamental mechanical engineering principles, advanced fluid dynamics, material science, corrosion prevention techniques, and sophisticated control systems. Applying this deep knowledge, you will optimize the operational continuity and sustainability of our critical industrial infrastructure. This represents an exceptional and unique opportunity to apply specialized marine engineering competencies within a dynamic, large-scale mining environment, directly contributing to the strategic success and responsible operation of a major economic cornerstone in the South African mining sector.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement comprehensive preventative and predictive maintenance programs for industrial vessels, pumps, pipelines, and associated machinery.
- Conduct detailed inspections, diagnostics, and troubleshooting of mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems within the processing plant and water management infrastructure.
- Oversee and execute repair, overhaul, and installation of heavy industrial equipment, ensuring adherence to engineering standards and safety regulations.
- Manage and optimize inventory of critical spares and consumables for vessel and system maintenance.
- Analyze operational data to identify trends, predict failures, and recommend improvements for system reliability and efficiency.
- Ensure strict compliance with all company safety policies, environmental regulations, and relevant South African industrial standards.
- Collaborate with multi-disciplinary engineering teams (mechanical, electrical, process) to ensure seamless integration and optimal performance of all plant components.
- Prepare technical reports, maintenance schedules, and budget forecasts for assigned areas of responsibility.
- Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and maintenance technicians.
Required Skills
- Bachelor's Degree in Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field
- Minimum of 4 years of experience in heavy industrial maintenance, marine vessel maintenance, or large-scale fluid system management.
- Profound knowledge of mechanical systems, fluid dynamics, hydraulics, and pneumatics.
- Demonstrated experience in preventative and predictive maintenance techniques.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a hands-on approach.
- Proficiency in reading and interpreting engineering drawings, schematics, and technical manuals.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, capable of working effectively in a team environment.
- Commitment to safety and environmental best practices.
Preferred Qualifications
- Government Certificate of Competency (GCC) for Factories or Mines (Mechanical)
- Experience in the mining or heavy process industry.
- Familiarity with Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS).
- Postgraduate qualification or relevant industry certifications.
- Knowledge of corrosion control strategies and material science in harsh environments.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary package and performance bonuses.
- Comprehensive medical aid and retirement funding.
- Relocation assistance (if applicable).
- Opportunities for continuous professional development and training.
- A safe, supportive, and inclusive work environment.
- Contribution to a nationally significant mining operation.
How to Apply
Ready to navigate your career towards a challenging and rewarding future? We invite qualified candidates to submit their applications by clicking on the link below. Please ensure your CV highlights your relevant experience in industrial or marine maintenance and your commitment to safety. We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially welcoming you to the Palabora Mining Company family.