Key Responsibilities: Planning and Strategy: Develop comprehensive drill and blast plans in collaboration with mine planning and engineering teams Analyze geological data and mine designs to determine optimal drilling and blasting techniques Ensure alignment of drill and blast activities with overall mine production schedules and targets Continuously review and improve drilling and blasting strategies to enhance efficiency and productivity Operational Management: Supervise and coordinate drill and blast operations, including drilling, explosives loading, and blasting activities Monitor equipment performance and maintenance schedules to ensure uninterrupted operations Oversee the procurement and inventory management of drilling and blasting consumables, including explosives, drilling rigs, and accessories Implement safety protocols and procedures to mitigate risks associated with drilling and blasting activities Conduct regular inspections and audits to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and company policies Team Leadership: Lead and mentor a team of drillers, blasters, and support staff to achieve operational excellence Provide training and development opportunities to enhance the skills and capabilities of the drill and blast team Foster a culture of safety, teamwork, and accountability among team members Quality Assurance and Performance Optimization: Monitor and analyze drilling and blasting performance metrics, such as fragmentation, vibration levels, and powder factors Identify opportunities for process optimization and efficiency improvements to minimize costs and maximize productivity Implement corrective actions to address deviations from planned drill and blast parameters Environmental and Community Relations: Ensure compliance with environmental regulations related to drilling and blasting activities, including air and water quality standards Implement measures to minimize environmental impact, such as dust suppression and noise control Engage with local communities to address concerns related to drilling and blasting operations and maintain positive relations Minimum requirements: Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering, Geological Engineering, or a related field A valid blasting ticket 5 to 10 years experience in drill and blast operations within the mining industry, preferably in coal mining Strong understanding of drilling and blasting principles, techniques, and equipment Knowledge of regulatory requirements and best practices related to mine safety and environmental management Excellent leadership and communication skills Ability to effectively manage multiple priorities in a dynamic work environment A valid drivers licence and own reliable vehicle