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.

Job description:

Key Responsibilities

This position will be required to adhere to all relevant requirements, policies, procedures and legal regulations pertaining to health, safety, environment and quality, as well as finance, human resources, and any other regulations as required by the company and relevant to the level of the role and responsibilities of the function.

1. Operational and Maintenance Oversight

Install, configure, commission, and maintain network equipment within the S3 Control and Instrumentation OT and industrial network to ensure optimal and continuous performance.Install and configure Ethernet, Profinet, and Profibus network equipment, including patch panels, fibre optic breakout boxes (FOBOTs), cabling (fibre and copper), and media converters.Work closely with C&I, IT, and Operations teams to align network infrastructure with operational requirements.Integrate Industrial Control Systems (ICS), SCADA, and other automation systems into the network architecture.Implement and oversee preventive and predictive maintenance schedules using a Computerised Maintenance Management System (CMMS) to minimise downtime and enhance equipment reliability.Monitor industrial network health and resolve network-related issues affecting control and automation systems.Maintain an up-to-date register of OTDR test results and splicing schedules.Ensure no unauthorised equipment is installed or connected to the network.

2. Safety and Compliance

Ensure strict adherence to health, safety, and environmental regulations within C&I network operations.Develop safe working procedures, participate in health and safety initiatives, and conduct regular audits.Ensure compliance with industry standards in the installation and disposal of electronic network equipment.

3. Technical and Supervisory Support

Provide hands-on technical guidance and troubleshooting to the network team for resolving complex network issues.Supervise and mentor network technicians, ensuring continuous learning and development.Promote a coaching environment, encouraging professional growth and technical excellence.

4. Performance Monitoring and Optimisation

Manage safe, efficient, and cost-effective network operations to support production objectives.Regularly monitor network performance, analysing data to identify inefficiencies and implementing corrective actions.Proactively manage network component lifecycles, ensuring timely replacements to prevent failures.Ensure robust inventory management of spare parts and critical network components.

5. Waste and Environmental Management

Oversee waste management and regulatory compliance within the network environment.Ensure adherence to legal disposal processes for electronic and network-related equipment.

6. Reporting and Documentation

Prepare detailed reports on network performance, incidents, and recommended improvements for management review.Maintain comprehensive network diagrams, configurations, and asset inventories.Ensure accurate records of all maintenance activities for audits and future planning.

7. Continuous Improvement and Innovation

Identify and implement network infrastructure improvements to enhance reliability and reduce downtime.Stay updated with new technologies and industry best practices, championing their adoption within Kansanshi Mining Plc.QualificationsBachelor’s degree / Advanced Diploma / National Diploma in Electrical, Electronic, Telecommunications Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field.Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or similar networking certification (advantageous).Certification in Industrial Network Protocols (Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Profibus, Modbus, OPC, DNP3) is preferred.Expert knowledge of OT, Control & Instrumentation Network systems.Experience with Siemens Sinema, SINEC, PCS 7 Maintenance OS (advantageous).Membership in the Engineering Institution of Zambia (EIZ) and Engineering Registration Board (ERB) (preferred).Experience10-15 years of experience in industrial network engineering, with at least 5 years in a C&I / OT department within an industrial or mining environment.Proven track record in network installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting in complex, mission-critical environments.Hands-on experience in industrial automation systems and SCADA architecture (preferably Siemens PCS7 control systems).Extensive experience in field instrumentation networks, fault-finding, and diagnostics.Skilled in diagnostics and testing of network equipment, including Optical Time Domain Reflectometers (OTDRs), light sources, power meters, and cable testers.Experience in industrial cybersecurity measures for control systems and OT networks.Knowledge of network management and diagnostic tools (e.g., PRTG Network Monitor, Wireshark, SolarWinds, Nagios, Siemens Sinema & SINEC).Proven supervisory experience in industrial networking (mining experience preferred).Behavioural TraitsSafety-Focused: Committed to a safe working environment.Strong Leadership: Guides and motivates teams to achieve high standards.Collaborative: Works effectively with cross-functional teams.Quality-Driven: Ensures technical excellence in all network operations.Technical Expertise: Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.Reliable: Dependable and accountable for team performance.Resilient: Performs effectively under pressure and tight deadlines.Proactive: Identifies network issues and implements preventive measures.Excellent Communication: Able to engage both technical and non-technical stakeholders.Operational RequirementsSupervise and support network technicians in daily tasks, including planned maintenance and corrective actions.Oversee spare parts management for maintenance and projects.Work independently with minimal supervision, managing multiple tasks effectively.Ensure compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory standards.Strong verbal and written communication skills.Proficiency in Computerised Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS).Ability to work extended hours, including standby and overtime, as required.Capable of working in challenging environmental conditions with exposure to noise, dust, and varying temperatures.Ability to handle the physical demands of the role, including standing, walking, and lifting network equipment when necessary.Conduct frequent site visits to monitor and troubleshoot network infrastructure.

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