Boilermaker

Job Purpose

The Dayshift Boilermaker is responsible for performing fabrication, welding, repair, and installation of structural and plant mechanical components during day operations to support safe, reliable, and efficient zinc mining and processing activities, in compliance with statutory requirements, safety standards, and engineering specifications.

Key Responsibilities

Safety, Health & Statutory Compliance

• Perform all work in accordance with Mine Health and Safety legislation, site procedures, and engineering standards.
• Apply permit‑to‑work, lock‑out/tag‑out, isolations, working‑at‑heights, and hot‑work procedures.
• Use prescribed PPE and approved tools and equipment.
• Identify, report, and correct unsafe conditions where authorised.
• Participate in toolbox talks, risk assessments, and safety meetings.

Fabrication, Welding & Repairs

• Carry out fabrication, repair, and installation of:
• Chutes, bins, hoppers, and transfer points
• Structural steel, walkways, platforms, and handrails
• Tanks, launders, and mechanical guards
• Pipework, slurry lines, and liners
• Perform welding using approved methods (e.g. MMA, MIG, FCAW) in accordance with procedure specifications.
• Read, interpret, and work from fabrication drawings and sketches.

Planned & Preventive Maintenance

• Execute planned maintenance tasks during day operations.
• Inspect fabricated structures and equipment for wear, corrosion, cracking, or deformation.
• Perform reinforcement, strengthening, and rebuilds to prevent failures.
• Support reliability improvement initiatives through quality workmanship.

Shutdown & Project Support

• Participate in planned shutdowns and maintenance campaigns.
• Assist with plant modifications, upgrades, and improvement projects.
• Support installation and commissioning of new mechanical equipment.
• Work collaboratively with mechanical and engineering teams to meet deadlines.

Tools, Equipment & Housekeeping

• Use cutting, welding, lifting, and fabrication equipment safely and correctly.
• Maintain tools, welding machines, and fabrication equipment in good working order.
• Maintain high standards of housekeeping in workshops and plant areas.
• Ensure work areas are left clean and safe after task completion.

Documentation & Reporting

• Complete job cards, fabrication records, and work orders accurately.
• Record materials used and note defects or improvement opportunities.
• Provide feedback to supervisors on job completion and outstanding work.

Teamwork & Skills Development

• Work effectively with fitters, electricians, operators, and contractors.
• Assist with mentoring apprentices or assistants when required.
• Participate in training, safety refreshers, and skills development programmes.

Minimum Qualifications

• Trade Test Certificate – Boilermaker
• Grade 12 / NQF Level 4
• Valid authorisation for mine work
• Medically fit for mine work

Advantageous

• Structural welding certification
• Rigging and lifting certification
• Experience in mineral processing plants

Experience Requirements

• 3–6 years post‑trade boilermaking experience

Experience in:

• Mining or heavy industrial environments
• Plant fabrication and structural repairs
• Planned maintenance environments

Technical Competencies

• Welding and fabrication to specification
• Cutting, forming, and plate work
• Structural steel erection and repair
• Interpretation of fabrication drawings
• Safe use of lifting and rigging equipment

Behavioural Competencies

• Strong safety awareness and discipline
• High quality and attention to detail
• Good time management and planning
• Ability to work independently on day shift
• Team‑oriented and reliable