Head of Automation (Autonomous/Mining /OT/ Industrial IT/Six Sigma) – Africa

Job Description:

Our client is seeking a Head of Automation who will be responsible for spearheading the deployment of autonomous truck technology in mining operations, aiming to boost innovation, operational efficiency, and safety standards. This role involves developing detailed project plans, managing risks, and ensuring alignment with safety and budgetary objectives. The Head of Automation will work closely with mining leaders, partners, and regulatory bodies to facilitate seamless project execution, while leading a multidisciplinary team to foster a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement. Extensive mining experience, knowledge of autonomous technology, and strong leadership skills are essential to meet key performance goals and drive process enhancements.

Responsibilities:

• Lead Automation Projects: Oversee the planning, execution, and deployment of automation projects, including autonomous trucks, drills, and other equipment, ensuring alignment with company objectives and industry standards.
• Develop Automation Strategies: Formulate short-term and long-term strategies for integrating automation technologies into mining operations to enhance productivity, safety, and cost efficiency.
• Risk Management: Conduct risk assessments for automation projects and implement mitigation strategies to address potential challenges related to safety, technology integration, or regulatory compliance.
• Budget Oversight: Manage project budgets, allocate resources effectively, and ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.
• Team Leadership: Manage and mentor a team of engineers, technicians, and project managers, fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Work closely with mining leadership, contractors, and equipment manufacturers to coordinate project goals, timelines, and technical requirements.
• Performance Monitoring: Track and analyze key performance metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of automated systems, identify areas for improvement, and drive process optimization.
• Compliance and Safety Management: Ensure that automation initiatives meet all safety standards and regulatory requirements, updating safety protocols as needed to reflect technological advancements.
• Technology Evaluation: Stay updated on the latest trends in mining automation and assess new technologies for potential implementation to maintain competitive advantages.
• Change Management: Lead efforts to transition mining operations from traditional methods to automated solutions, providing training and support to staff throughout the process.
• Continuous Improvement: Drive initiatives to enhance automation processes, integrating feedback from operations to optimize system performance and reliability.
• Vendor and Partner Management: Engage with vendors, OEMs, and external partners to ensure the quality and integration of automated equipment and technologies.

Requirements: Qualification and Skill

• Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field such as Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mining Engineering, Automation/Robotics Engineering, or Computer Science.
• Master’s Degree (preferred) in fields like Engineering Management, Business Administration (MBA), Automation/Robotics, or Mining Engineering, which can provide advanced technical knowledge and leadership skills.
• Specialized Training or Certifications in areas such as automation technology, industrial control systems, project management (e.g., PMP), Six Sigma, or health and safety standards relevant to the mining industry.
• Knowledge of Operational Technology (OT) and Industrial IT, particularly related to automation, control systems, and data analytics.

If you wish to apply for the position, please send your CV to Lucia Baeza at [email protected]

Please visit www.mining-recruitment-jobs.com for more exciting opportunities.

Lucia Baeza 

Executive Talent Consultant

CA Mining

CA Mining will respond to short-listed candidates only. If you have not had any response in two weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful however your CV will be kept on our database for any other suitable positions.

CA Global Headhunters is an international staffing company with a specific focus on recruitment in Africa. Our extensive, diverse candidate network built up over 10 years comprises the most skilled and experienced candidates. We recruit talent of the highest standards across African sectors, including Mining, Oil & Gas, Engineering, Banking, Finance, Legal, Insurance, Commodities, and Agriculture. As African markets continue to grow and develop, so too does our skill and expertise, ensuring that we deliver the best service to both clients and candidates.

Thanks to our access to global networks and resources, we understand our clients’ cultures, operations, business strategies, and industries. We are always on par with the latest technologies and trends which assist us in sourcing the best talent for clients. Whatever stage of the project lifecycle, we can put forward the right candidates with the right skills.