Operator (Explosives Truck) –
Job Title: Operator (Explosives Truck)
Company: BME (Omnia Group)
Business Unit: BME Southern Africa Operations – Surface
Location: Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Employment Type: Permanent | Full-Time
Workplace: On-site
Job Overview
BME, a division of the Omnia Group and a global leader in blasting solutions for the mining industry, is recruiting a Permanent Operator (Explosives Truck) for its Newcastle operations in KwaZulu-Natal. This position is ideal for experienced Code 14 drivers with dangerous goods qualifications who are looking to build a long-term career in the mining sector.
The successful candidate will be responsible for operating a mixer-placer explosives truck used to safely load blast holes with explosive products according to BME’s strict operational and SHERQ (Safety, Health, Environment, Risk and Quality) standards. The role also involves inspecting equipment, performing calculations, completing documentation, supervising a Truck Assistant, and ensuring product quality throughout the blasting process.
This is a highly specialised position requiring technical knowledge, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to workplace safety. The successful candidate will work closely with Blasters, Foremen, and site personnel to ensure blasting activities are completed safely, efficiently, and according to design specifications.
Key Responsibilities
The Operator (Explosives Truck) will be responsible for:
- Operating the explosives mixer-placer truck safely and efficiently.
- Receiving charging instructions from the Blaster before commencing work.
- Inspecting blast holes and measuring their depth to ensure they meet required specifications.
- Reporting any out-of-specification blast holes to the Blaster.
- Calculating the correct quantity of explosive product required for each blast hole.
- Reporting calculation discrepancies to the Foreman.
- Inspecting pumps, truck systems, and equipment before loading operations begin.
- Sampling explosive products and testing product density before pumping.
- Reporting any product quality concerns before loading commences.
- Ensuring all equipment settings comply with operational standards.
- Loading blast holes according to approved blast designs and safety procedures.
- Taking ongoing product samples during operations to ensure consistent quality.
- Completing loading sheets, pre-use inspections, grease schedules, calibration records, and truck performance reports.
- Conducting routine truck inspections and assisting with basic maintenance.
- Supervising the daily activities of the Truck Assistant.
- Verifying that the correct blast holes are charged according to customer specifications.
- Ensuring compliance with all SHERQ policies and mining regulations.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must have:
- Grade 12 with Mathematics.
- Valid Code EC (Code 14) Driver’s Licence.
- Valid Dangerous Goods Permit (DGP).
- At least 3 years’ truck driving experience, preferably within a mining environment.
- A minimum of 5 years’ experience driving heavy-duty vehicles (Code EC).
Skills and Competencies
Successful candidates should demonstrate:
- Strong numerical and calculation skills.
- Excellent attention to detail.
- Good communication and interpersonal skills.
- Report-writing abilities.
- Ability to follow strict safety procedures.
- Mechanical awareness.
- Problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work independently and within a team.
- Strong organisational and planning skills.
- Leadership ability to supervise support staff.
Working Environment
This role is based on a mining site and involves operating specialised heavy-duty explosives trucks in demanding outdoor conditions. Employees must follow strict safety procedures at all times while handling explosives, operating heavy equipment, and working alongside blasting teams. The position requires physical fitness, concentration, and the ability to work in high-risk environments while maintaining the highest safety standards.
Why Join BME (Omnia Group)?
BME forms part of the globally recognised Omnia Group, operating across 26 countries and serving customers in more than 40 countries worldwide. The company is known for delivering innovative blasting solutions that improve safety, productivity, and sustainability within the mining industry.
Employees benefit from working in an organisation that values innovation, integrity, and continuous professional development. BME invests in employee growth through technical training, exposure to advanced mining technologies, and opportunities to build long-term careers within an international business.
Ideal Candidate
This opportunity is best suited to an experienced Code 14 driver who has a passion for safety, enjoys working in the mining industry, and is comfortable operating specialised heavy vehicles. Candidates should be disciplined, detail-oriented, and committed to maintaining the highest standards of operational excellence. For drivers looking to advance their careers in mining and heavy vehicle operations, this permanent position offers the opportunity to join one of the industry’s leading organisations while contributing to safe and efficient mining operations.