Software Technician

Company Description

We have an exciting opportunity for a Software Technician. The purpose of this role is to offer technical expertise to support mining processes and related equipment at the operation by ensuring effective software installation and maintenance.

We’re the best in the industry.

You’ll make us better.

Guided by our purpose and our values, we enable both high performance and purposeful action as we aim to “re-imagine mining to improve people’s lives”, delivering the metals and minerals that make modern life possible – from mobile phones to medicines.

Kumba Iron Ore

We produce high-grade iron ore, the key component in steel widely used in construction and manufacturing across the world. Our activities include all aspects – exploration; mining; processing and blending; shipping; marketing and selling. In South Africa, we have mining operations in the Northern Cape province, as well as a head office in Centurion, Gauteng, and a port operation in Saldanha Bay, Western Cape.

Job Description

As our Software Technician, your responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

• Safety, Health, and Environment
  • Consistently apply Safety and health principles in all team interactions and take personal responsibility for the safety of self and others to ensure zero harm and elimination of fatalities.
• Function as a role model and support a workplace culture where safety and health for the site are paramount.
• Support an environment for team members to challenge and act on unsafe behaviours without repercussions.
  • Active participation in VFLs, Risk Assessments, and close-out of Safety Actions.
• Performance and Delivery
• System Installation and Maintenance:
  • Install and configure mining-related software applications on dispatcher and end-user workstations to ensure system functionality.
  • Load specific software into devices when equipment is changed or installed, ensuring proper mining equipment operation.
• System Availability and Performance:
  • Monitor and maintain system availability to meet or exceed a 95% uptime standard, addressing any immediate system issues that arise.
  • Perform routine checks and maintenance of control room systems and applications to ensure optimal performance.
• Equipment and Spare Parts Management:
  • Reconcile and manage spare parts inventory to ensure sufficient stock for maintaining system functionality.
  • Assist in identifying hardware components causing downtime and report findings for further action.
• User Access and Software Support:
  • Provide technical support to end-users by assisting with access to mining-related systems and resolving fundamental application issues.
  • Collaborate with IT teams to address software-related problems promptly to minimise downtime.
• System Testing and Calibration:
  • Test and verify functionality and safety of equipment and systems before returning them to production environments.
  • Maintain all equipment accurately and calibrated, adhering to work instructions and operational standards.
• System Upgrades:
  • Conduct risk assessments, analyse impacts, and coordinate with relevant parties to facilitate system upgrades when workstations can no longer support applications.
• Database Management:
  • Pull reports from the database, apply moderate server operation knowledge, install applications with system owner assistance, and manage on-site applications and services.
• Technical Assistance for Specialized Systems:
  • Provide routine technical support for systems like Fatigue Management, including basic troubleshooting and checklist completion.
  • Conduct essential system performance monitoring and escalate complex issues to senior technical teams.
• Operational Collaboration:
  • Support mining and production teams by providing feedback on immediate system issues and coordinating basic resolutions with relevant stakeholders.
  • Attend scheduled operational meetings to share system performance updates and receive instructions for ongoing technical support.
• After-Hours Support:
  • Provide first-line technical support for mining systems and applications during after-hours as part of a standby schedule to ensure uninterrupted production.
• Budget and Cost Control Management
  • Participate in cost-saving efforts within the section's budget to ensure effective financial management and savings.

This role is in the Mining (MIN) department on a band 7.9 level reporting to the Dispatch Systems Engineer.

Qualifications

• Grade 12/N3 Technical
• Higher National Qualification in Computer Science/Computer Systems Engineering (Electronics), Information/Management/Software Engineering (NQF5)
• National Diploma in Computer Science/Computer Systems Engineering (Electronics), Information/Management/Software Engineering (NQF6) (Advantageous)
• SA Drivers Licence (CodeEB/E)
• Relevant Certifications in Networking and Systems Management, such as Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or CompTIA Network+ (Advantageous)

Technical Knowledge

• 3-5 years of operational experience installing and maintaining FMS software.
• Understanding network infrastructure, system connectivity, and operational efficiency of FMS systems and devices.
• Understand equipment capabilities and limitations.
• Knowledge of the mining lifecycle and value chain.
• Awareness of the impact of mining activities on business and operational performance.
• Familiarity with safety and health implications of designs and operating activities.

Additional Information

Who we are?

Anglo American is a global diversified mining business. Our portfolio of world-class mining operations provides the metals and minerals that make modern life possible. We use innovative practices and the latest technologies to discover new resources and mine.

We work together with our key partners and stakeholders to unlock the sustainable value that those resources represent for our shareholders, the communities and countries in which we operate, and for society at large. Anglo American is re-imagining mining to improve people’s lives.

How we are committed to your safety

Nothing is more important to us than ensuring you return home safely after a day’s work. To make that happen, we have the most rigorous safety standards in the industry. Not only that, we’re also continually investing in new technologies – from drones to data analytics – that are helping to make mining safer.

Inclusion and Diversity

Anglo American is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to promoting an inclusive and diverse workplace where we value and respect every colleague for who they are and provide equality of opportunity so that everyone can fulfil their potential.

How to apply

To apply for this role, please complete our online application form. You will have the opportunity to upload your CV and other relevant documentation as part of this process.