At First Quantum, we free the talent of our people by taking a very different approach which is underpinned by a very different, very definite culture – the “First Quantum Way”.

Working with us is not like working anywhere else, which is why we recruit people who will take a bolder, smarter approach to spot opportunities, solve problems and deliver results.

Our culture is all about encouraging you to think independently and to challenge convention to deliver the best result. That’s how we continue to achieve extraordinary things in extraordinary locations.

Purpose of the role

The Coordinator, Mechanical Larox and Concentrate will be responsible for providing advanced mechanical engineering expertise in the maintenance, troubleshooting, and optimization of flotation equipment and associated mechanical systems to ensure optimal plant performance and reliability.

Job & Candidate Requirements

Key Responsibilities:

The holder of this position will be required to adhere to all relevant requirements, policies, procedures, and legal regulations pertaining to health, safety, environment, quality, finance, human resources, and any other company regulations relevant to the role and responsibilities.

• Provide technical leadership in the maintenance, operation, and optimization of mechanical flotation equipment including flotation cells, agitators, pumps, piping, and related components.
• Develop and implement mechanical maintenance strategies to improve equipment reliability, reduce downtime, and optimize performance.
• Diagnose mechanical failures, conduct root cause analysis (RCA), and implement corrective actions to prevent reoccurrence.
• Work closely with metallurgists, operations, and maintenance teams to ensure seamless integration of mechanical systems with process operations.
• Monitor wear and tear of flotation equipment and recommend appropriate refurbishment or replacement schedules.
• Ensure compliance with mechanical engineering standards, safety regulations, and best practices in equipment maintenance and reliability.
• Assist in planning and executing shutdown maintenance activities for flotation circuits.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities to enhance mechanical efficiency and performance.
• Develop and implement training programs to upskill mechanical maintenance personnel on best practices in flotation equipment maintenance.
• Contribute to budget planning, cost control, and forecasting for mechanical maintenance in the flotation section.
• Collaborate with procurement and engineering teams to source and manage spare parts inventory for flotation equipment.
• Perform any other duties as assigned by the Superintendent, Flotation.

Qualifications Required:

• A tertiary qualification in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Eligibility for membership with the Engineering Institute of Zambia (EIZ), as required by the Mining Regulations of Zambia.

Experience & Skills Required:

• Minimum 8 years of experience in mechanical engineering roles within flotation or mineral processing plants.
• Strong understanding of mechanical systems related to copper flotation equipment, including but not limited to hydraulics, pneumatics, and rotating machinery.
• Experience in predictive and preventative maintenance strategies for mechanical equipment.
• Familiarity with failure mode and effects analysis (FMEA) and reliability-centered maintenance (RCM) practices.
• Proficiency in using Pronto (CMMS) for maintenance planning, tracking, and reporting.
• Demonstrated experience in troubleshooting and implementing continuous improvement initiatives.
• Proficiency in the use of condition monitoring techniques such as vibration analysis, thermography, and ultrasound for mechanical equipment and the understanding and interpretation of said reports.
• Strong data analysis and reporting skills.
• Preferably experienced in copper floatation circuits

Behavioural Traits Required:

• Strong commitment to health, safety, and environmental (HSE) compliance.
• Excellent leadership and teamwork skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to work in a multi-cultural environment and under pressure.
• Proactive and results-driven mind-set.