Company: AECI
Location: South Africa
Closing Date: 31 August 2026
Are you looking for an exciting operational role within the African mining sector in 2026? AECI Mining has announced a vacancy for an Operations Assistant at the Plutus Project, situated within the Khoemacau Copper Mine site in Botswana. This fixed-term contract position offers a great entry point for candidates seeking hands-on exposure to open-pit blasting, explosives handling, and mobile manufacturing equipment.
Below is a detailed guide covering the position overview, requirements, core duties, and application procedure based directly on the official recruitment advertisement.
Company Overview
AECI Mining is a leading global provider of commercial explosives, initiating systems, and chemical solutions designed to optimize mineral processing and mining operations. Operating across international footprints, the company prioritizes sustainable mining practices, strict safety protocols, and operational excellence across its projects.
Job Overview
The Operations Assistant role is categorized under Pay Grade A within the AECI Mining pillar. The candidate will be directly based at the Plutus Project within the Khoemacau Copper Mine site.
- Job Title: Operations Assistant
- Pillar: AECI Mining
- Pay Grade: A
- Location: Plutus Project – Khoemacau Copper Mine Site, Botswana (BW)
- Employment Type: 10 Months Fixed Term Contract
- Closing Date: August 31, 2026
Core Purpose of Job
The main purpose of the Operations Assistant is to assist the MMU Operator and Technical Officer to safely load Mobile Manufacturing Units (MMUs) and deliver products on the charging bench. The successful candidate will perform general duties around the work area as directed by supervisory staff on-site.
Key Responsibilities and Accountabilities
The successful applicant will undertake key operational responsibilities, including:
- Maintaining SHEQ (Safety, Health, Environment, and Quality) recognition and compliance.
- Performing housekeeping duties for the Mobile Manufacturing Units (MMUs) and plant in according with company procedures.
- Adhering strictly to all safety procedures as per company rules and regulations.
- Handling MMU hoses during the charging process.
- Conducting on-bench explosives quality checks.
- Serving as a spotter for the MMU both on and off the bench.
- Assisting the MMU Operator with all operations-related duties.
- Carrying out routine housekeeping in and around designated areas of responsibility.
- Loading and offloading explosives at the magazines.
- Assisting the maintenance team during MMU breakdowns, calibrations, and scheduled services.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following mandatory criteria:
- Education: At least a Cambridge O’ Level / BGCSE certificate or equivalent.
- Experience: Minimum of two (2) years of experience in a Prime, Load, Tie and Shoot (PLTS) Open Pit environment.
- Licensing: Valid Class B Driver’s License.
- Blasting Qualification: Valid Open Pit Blasting License.
- Citizenship: Must be a Botswana Citizen.
- Language Proficiency: Fluent in both Setswana and English.
- Industry Experience: Demonstrated experience in open pit mining.
Preferred Skills and Behavioral Competencies
Behavioral Competencies
- Strong sense of responsibility and high work ethics.
- Independent attitude capable of working with minimum supervision.
- Demonstrated teamwork capabilities.
- Physical fitness for demanding site environments.
- Passionate and results-driven mindset.
Preferred Skills & Added Advantages
- Possession of a Class C Driver’s License is an added advantage.
- Knowledge of and direct experience with AECI products is an added advantage.
Salary and Benefits
- Salary: Not disclosed in the official job advertisement.
- Benefits: Not disclosed in the official job advertisement.
Required Documents
While specific document submission requirements are not explicitly listed in the advert, standard applications for skilled mining roles typically expect:
- Comprehensive, updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Certified copy of National Identity Card (Omang) verifying Botswana citizenship.
- Certified copies of Cambridge O’ Level / BGCSE certificates.
- Certified copies of Driver’s License and Open Pit Blasting License.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Visit the AECI Careers Portal: Navigate to the official AECI recruitment portal online.
- Locate the Vacancy: Search for the position titled “Operations Assistant” under the Botswana (BW) region or Khoemacau Mine site listings.
- Account Creation: Create a user profile or log into your existing AECI careers account.
- Complete Profile Details: Fill out your personal background, driver’s license details, citizenship status, and employment history in open pit mining.
- Upload Documentation: Attach your CV, educational qualifications, licenses, and certified identification documents.
- Review and Submit: Ensure all submitted information strictly matches the eligibility criteria before completing your submission prior to August 31, 2026.
Important Notes
- Applications received after the closing date of August 31, 2026, will not be considered.
- Only Botswana citizens meeting the stated PLTS Open Pit experience and licensing conditions are eligible to apply.
- AECI does not charge any application or recruitment fees.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the closing date for this role?
The application deadline for the Operations Assistant position is August 31, 2026.
Where is the job located?
The position is located at the Plutus Project, Khoemacau Copper Mine site in Botswana.
Is this a permanent position?
No, this post is offered on a 10-month fixed-term contract basis.
Can non-citizens apply for this role?
No, the job specification explicitly requires candidates to be Botswana citizens.
Conclusion
The Operations Assistant position at AECI Mining represents a key operational role for qualified Botswana citizens possessing valid open-pit blasting certifications and hands-on PLTS environment experience. If you meet the minimum qualifications, submit your application through the official AECI careers system before the August 31, 2026 closing date.
