Grade Controller - Coal Mining

As a Grade Controller, you will be responsible for maintaining consistency and accuracy in coal grade reporting,
optimizing the resource recovery, and minimizing waste to ensure operational efficiency.

Coal Stockpile Management:

• Monitor and manage coal stockpiles to ensure accurate segregation of different coal
• qualities and prevent contamination or dilution of product
• Oversee the correct stacking, reclaiming, and blending of coal to meet product specifications and customer requirements
• Track stockpile volumes, qualities, and movements, ensuring alignment between survey data, production figures, and reported tonnages
• Implement and maintain effective stockpile reconciliation practices between pit, plant, and dispatch to minimize losses and discrepancies
• Conduct routine inspections of stockpiles to identify risks such as oxidation, spontaneous combustion, or moisture variation, and implement mitigation measures
• Collaborate with mine planning, production, and plant teams to optimize stockpile utilization and blending strategies
• Ensure compliance with site procedures and best practices related to stockpile management, safety, and environmental standards

Coal Grade Monitoring:

• Continuously monitor the coal quality throughout the mining process, including during extraction, processing, and transportation
• Ensure that the extracted coal meets required grade specifications and that any deviations are identified and addressed promptly
• Ensure minimal mining losses and coal dilution

Sampling and Testing:

• Oversee the collection of coal samples from various points in the mining and processing chain
• Supervise or conduct laboratory tests on coal samples to determine parameters such as ash content, calorific value, moisture levels, sulfur content, and other relevant grade indicators
• Record and analyze test results, providing feedback to the mining operations team

Data Management and Reporting:

• Maintain accurate records of coal quality, production data, and test results
• Prepare and submit detailed reports on coal grade trends, quality issues, and production performance to senior management
• Ensure compliance with environmental and safety regulations regarding coal grading

Grade Control Optimization:

• Identify areas for improvement in coal grade control processes and propose solutions to optimize coal quality and reduce waste
• Work closely with the mining engineers and geologists to adjust the mining strategy based on coal grade variability

Quality Assurance:

• Collaborate with the production and processing teams to ensure that all quality assurance protocols are followed
• Conduct regular audits of processes, materials, and equipment to ensure compliance with the grade specifications

Stakeholder Communication:

• Communicate effectively with internal stakeholders, such as mining teams, engineers, and plant operators, regarding coal quality concerns and corrective actions
• Provide technical support and advice on coal blending strategies and quality improvements

Health, Safety, and Environmental Compliance:

• Ensure all grade control activities are conducted safely, adhering to company health, safety, and environmental standards
• Participate in safety meetings and audits and implement corrective actions where necessary

Minimum Requirements:

• A degree or diploma in Mining Engineering, Geology, or a related field
• Additional certifications in Quality Control or relevant mining operations are a plus
• Minimum 3-5 years of experience in coal mining, with a focus on grade control, quality management, or related areas
• Practical experience in coal sampling, testing, and grade optimization is essential
• Knowledge of coal processing, blending, and quality analysis procedures
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret and report coal quality data
• Proficiency in using mining and laboratory software for data collection and analysis
• In-depth understanding of coal quality parameters and their impact on mining operations and customer satisfaction
• Good communication skills to interact with teams, stakeholders, and management
• Strong problem-solving abilities to address quality-related issues effectively
• Understanding of mining industry health, safety, and environmental regulations
• Ability to apply safety practices during coal extraction and processing

For more information please contact:

Zama Masango