Mechanical Reliability Engineer – Mining Plant Maintenance Jobs in Zambia

Job Description

Company: First Quantum Minerals
Location: Solwezi, Zambia
Job Type: Full-Time
Industry: Mining / Engineering / Plant Maintenance

Job Overview

First Quantum Minerals is seeking a highly skilled Mechanical Reliability Engineer to support process plant reliability, maintenance, and continuous improvement activities at its operations in Solwezi.

This role is ideal for professionals searching for mechanical engineering jobs in Zambia, mining plant maintenance jobs, reliability engineer roles, or industrial maintenance careers. The position focuses on improving plant performance, reducing downtime, and enhancing equipment reliability across key processing plants including HPL (High Pressure Leach), oxygen, and acid plants.

Key Responsibilities

Plant Reliability & Maintenance Engineering

• Drive process plant reliability and maintenance strategies
• Support operations teams in improving equipment performance and operational efficiency
• Manage daily maintenance work planning and prioritization

Continuous Improvement & Project Management

• Identify and implement continuous improvement projects in mining operations
• Scope, plan, and execute plant upgrade and modification projects
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance plant productivity and cost efficiency

Failure Analysis & Troubleshooting

• Conduct root cause failure analysis (RCFA) for equipment breakdowns
• Troubleshoot faulty equipment and recommend corrective maintenance actions
• Monitor plant performance and resolve operational inefficiencies

Shutdown Planning & Technical Support

• Lead plant shutdown planning, coordination, and execution
• Provide technical guidance on mechanical design, repairs, and maintenance solutions
• Liaise with OEM suppliers and consultants for equipment support and upgrades

Performance Monitoring & Reporting

• Develop and track equipment reliability KPIs and performance indicators
• Support data-driven decision-making through condition monitoring and performance analysis
• Maintain compliance with quality, safety, and operational standards

Health, Safety & Compliance

• Ensure adherence to health, safety, and environmental (HSE) regulations
• Promote a strong safety culture in mining and engineering operations
• Follow company policies related to quality, HR, and operational procedures

Team Leadership & Capacity Building

• Provide training and mentorship to maintenance teams
• Support workforce development and succession planning initiatives
• Promote teamwork, leadership, and continuous learning

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent
• Membership with Engineering Institution of Zambia (EIZ)
• Registration with Engineering Registration Board (ERB)

Experience

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in mining plant maintenance or industrial engineering roles
• Strong knowledge of reliability engineering, maintenance strategies, and condition monitoring
• Experience in failure analysis, plant optimization, and continuous improvement processes

Key Skills & Competencies

• Expertise in plant reliability engineering and maintenance management
• Strong analytical skills in equipment performance monitoring and troubleshooting
• Leadership and communication skills in engineering team environments
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in mining operations
• Knowledge of industrial safety standards and operational best practices

Behavioural Attributes

• Teamwork and collaboration
• Proactive and results-driven mindset
• Strong focus on safety, quality, and operational excellence
• Ability to think independently and drive innovation

Operational Requirements

• Willingness to work standby and overtime when required
• Ability to work in environments with noise, dust, and industrial conditions

Why Join First Quantum Minerals?

First Quantum Minerals offers a high-performance environment focused on innovation, problem-solving, and delivering results in complex mining operations.

This opportunity is ideal for candidates pursuing mechanical engineer jobs Zambia, mining reliability engineer roles, plant maintenance engineer jobs, and industrial engineering careers in Africa.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply through the official company careers portal.