Grade Controller

Oza Holdings · Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal

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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.

Key Responsibilities: 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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