Underground Mining Project Manager - Zambia

Our Company

The Mancala Group is an Australian based group of companies that has been providing specialised mining services with a commitment to our core values; Safety – Quality – Integrity – Innovation – People, for over 35 years.

Proven safe work practices and procedures, combined with fit for purpose equipment and highly experienced personnel place Mancala as a leader in the provision of mine services in the Australian and International markets. 

Deliver a Landmark Project Leading a High-Impact Underground Mining Project in Zambia

We’re offering a rare opportunity for a seasoned and ambitious Project Manager to take the lead on an exciting new underground mining development in Zambia’s world-renowned Copperbelt.

Reporting directly to the International Project Director, this is a full-time role with residential or FIFO terms to suit the successful candidate.

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

Own the Project – Play a pivotal leadership role in delivering critical underground infrastructure, including the excavation of a pump chamber and associated works.

Make a Real Impact – Your decisions, leadership, and expertise will directly shape project success, safety outcomes, and team performance.

Work Globally, Lead Locally – Collaborate within a dynamic team, multicultural environment and contribute your experience in African mining operations.

Career-Defining Role – This is more than a job; it’s a chance to showcase your leadership on a significant international project.

What You’ll Bring

• A commitment to safety excellence and operational best practice

• Proven experience delivering underground mining projects safely and efficiently

• Strong leadership capability, with the ability to motivate and manage diverse teams

• Experience working within the African mining sector (highly regarded)

Your Mission

You’ll be responsible for ensuring all underground works are executed to the highest standards of safety, quality, and efficiency, while driving team performance and maintaining strong stakeholder alignment.

If you’re ready to step into a challenging, rewarding, and career-enhancing role where your expertise truly matters, we want to hear from you.

About the Role & Key Responsibilities

This position holds full accountability for the overall success of the project, including profit and loss, strategic direction, project delivery, client relationships, and the leadership and development of your team.

You will oversee a complex, multidisciplinary operation involving mechanical, civil, and underground mining activities, ensuring seamless coordination across all aspects of the project.

You will

• Drive a strong safety culture, maintaining responsibility for all health, safety, and environmental outcomes

• Take ownership of project performance, including financial outcomes and delivery against strategic objectives

• Build and maintain strong client relationships, effectively managing expectations and delivering on commitments

• Lead and manage all project activities in line with contractual obligations and company standards

• Ensure full compliance with contract requirements, policies, and regulatory frameworks

• Maintain authority over quality management systems and ensure consistent implementation of quality practices

• Oversee plant and equipment performance to meet availability targets, control operating costs, and maximise asset life

• Ensure effective forward planning of all project activities to minimise delays, mitigate risks, and eliminate rework

• Provide strong leadership, clear direction, and consistent communication to all team members

• Deliver accurate and timely daily, weekly, and monthly reports in line with company and client expectations

This role requires a proactive and hands-on leader who can balance operational excellence with strategic oversight in a demanding project environment.

Candidates with prior experience in the African mining sector will be highly regarded.

Requirements: 

• Degree level qualifications in Mining or Civil Engineering are mandatory

• First Class Underground Mine Manager Certificate (Australia or equivalent)

• 15+ years' experience in an underground mining operational and management role

• Competent in the use of Microsoft Project or another scheduling tool

• Competent in the use of Pronto or equivalent accounting software with understanding of project cost coding and forward cost estimating

• Exceptional leadership skills, demonstrated through effective communication and a talent for empowering others through delegation.

• Effective planning and organising skills including establishment of goals, setting priorities, schedule activities and arrange necessary resources

• Intermediate knowledge of Microsoft Office

• Ability to pass Pre-employment Medical and National Police Clearance

Conditions:

• Location: Zambia

• Employment Type: Permanent Full-time

• Competitive and negotiable package

• The successful candidate may be engaged on either a FIFO or residential basis

• Business Class flights, meals and accommodation provided when on FIFO roster

• Housing and other benefits for candidates based in Zambia or willing to relocate to the project location