Shift Supervisor, Operations – QAQC

Job description

At First Quantum, we free the talent of our people by taking a very different approach which is underpinned by a very different, very definite culture – the “First Quantum Way”.

Working with us is not like working anywhere else, which is why we recruit people who will take a bolder, smarter approach to spot opportunities, solve problems and deliver results.

Our culture is all about encouraging you to think independently and to challenge convention to deliver the best result. That’s how we continue to achieve extraordinary things in extraordinary locations.

Job description

Purpose

To coordinate, supervise, and optimize drill and blast QA/QC activities across shifts by ensuring alignment between operational execution and production targets. The role ensures that drilling and blasting activities meet design specifications, quality standards, and safety requirements while driving continuous improvement through performance monitoring, data analysis, and effective team leadership. The Shift Supervisor acts as the critical link between field execution and strategic planning to deliver consistent blast outcomes and support overall mine productivity.

Key Responsibilities

Safety, Health, Environment and Quality (SHEQ)

• Ensure strict compliance and SHEQ policies, procedures and regulations

• Conduct shift safety briefings, inspections, and risk assessments.

• Enforce explosives safety standards and operational risk controls.

• Lead incident investigations, PTOs, and hazard identification processes.

Operational Supervision and Execution 

• Supervise and coordinate all drill and blast QAQC activities during the shift.

• Ensure drilled holes meet design requirements (depth, spacing, angle, and deviation).

• Oversee dipping, redrill identification, and blast readiness processes.

• Monitor explosive loading, density control, and stemming quality.

• Ensure accurate execution of blast designs and proper use of systems (Blast IQ).

Quality Assurance and Quality Control

• Ensure adherence to QAQC protocols for drilling, charging, and blasting.

• Validate stemming height, material quality, and confinement standards.

• Monitor Powder Factor compliance and explosive performance.

• Review blast outcomes including fragmentation and identify deviations.

• Ensure proper handling, storage, and usage of explosives and consumables.

Performance Monitoring and Optimization 

• Track and report shift performance against production and quality targets.

• Conduct post-blast evaluations and identify improvement opportunities.

• Support implementation of optimization initiatives from the Coordinator.

• Ensure data accuracy and integrity within QAQC systems and databases.

Team Leadership and Coordination

• Supervise Area Supervisors and QAQC teams to ensure efficient execution.

• Allocate resources effectively in line with production targets.

• Provide coaching, guidance, and on-the-job training to improve team capability.

• Promote teamwork, accountability, and adherence to operational standards.

Stakeholder Coordination 

• Liaise with Drilling, Blasting, MTS and contractors’ teams

• Ensure alignment between design, execution, and production objectives.

• Support contractor management and ensure compliance with QAQC standards.

Continuous Improvement 

• Drive root-cause analysis of drilling and blasting issues.

• Contribute to development and improvement of QAQC procedures.

• Encourage innovation and best practices in drill and blast operations.

Qualifications

• Grade Twelve (12) Certificate or equivalent

• Degree in Mining Engineering or Equivalent
• ZAQA Verifications

• Supervisory Certificate will be additional advantage

• Blasting License holder

• First Aid certificate holder

• Valid Driver’s License

Experience

• Minimum 4 – 5 years’ experience in an open pit mining environment with at least 2 year in a supervisory or leadership role.

• Proven technical expertise in drill patterns, explosives handling, blast design, and blast optimization.

• Strong understanding of mining QAQC protocols and quality standards.

• Effective communication and people skills

• Competent in basic computer use and mining-related software systems.

Behavioral Traits

• Strong leadership and decision-making ability

• High attention to detail and quality focus

• Effective communication and coordination skills

• Problem-solving and analytical thinking

• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines

Operational Requirements

• Ability to work shifts, overtime, and standby

• Exposure to dust, noise, and harsh mining conditions

• Computer literacy and familiarity with mining software systems

• Understanding of mining legislation, policies, and procedures