Process Superintendent

• Responsible for the safety, production, quality and budgets for their area of processing operations
• Work with Senior Managers, other Superintendents and their Process Supervisors to control processing machinery to convert the mined materials into saleable mine products
• Processing activities vary with the mineral being mined, but can include the separation of waste, washing, crushing, grinding, leaching, electrical, chemical or metal processing and packaging
• Responsible for all the people, equipment, tools and materials in their area
• Prepare and approve production plans, allocate work to their teams, oversee progress, solve problems, and take corrective action when required
• Prepare and negotiate budgets, and monitor spending
• Prepare reports and briefs on production, safety, environment, progress on projects, and other matters
• Lead and participate in meetings and briefings, both formal and informal
• Recruit, train and develop their employees, with support from Process Supervisors and Human Resources (HR) specialists
• Oversee the development of supervisors, providing support, encouragement, advice and guidance
• Work with the maintenance team to ensure optimum asset utilization
• Work with trade union(s), supervisors and HR department to avoid and resolve personnel issues and grievances
• Liaise with suppliers and consultants

Process Superintendents are paid on an annual basis. Depending on factors such as the location of the mine and the type of mineral or metal produced, annual salaries range from $81,000 to $164,000 (CostMine, 2014). In addition, Process Superintendents often receive other benefits.

In general, people are drawn to a career in the mining industry for the rewarding work, as well as the opportunity to apply their skills in the workplace. The compensation is attractive as is the structured work schedule which allows for personal pursuits and professional development.

The people who are attracted to working as a Process Superintendent are highly motivated to take on a senior position with increased responsibilities and challenging work, involving a mix of office and operational work. They are ambitious and appreciate the opportunity to work with new technologies and processes, and to develop their teams. They also like working with other senior managers and the broader perspective on the industry that comes with that collaboration.

Each year, MiHR researches the needs of the mining industry to hire Process Superintendents. Based on 2015’s forecast, we are providing the following assessment of the Job Prospects in mining as well as an evaluation applicability of these skills in other sectors. Together, these measures will help future job seekers to make informed decisions about potential careers, based on the opportunities in the mining industry.

Note: conditions vary according to employer and region.

As a Process Superintendent you will be based in an office in (or near) the processing mill and you will spend most of your time in the mill. You will also attend and chair mill or mine management meetings.

Safety is the top priority in the mining industry and employers take every precaution to create a safe workplace. All mine employees observe strict health and safety rules and wear personal protective equipment (e.g. safety glasses, respirator, steel-toed boots, hard hats, ear protection, etc.). This equipment also reduces the risks that come with exposure to various environmental conditions, extreme temperatures and hazards.

Working hours vary considerably from mine to mine. You might have standard weekday working hours or shift work that involves evening and/or weekend work. Unpaid overtime may be required on occasion.

Some mines are located near communities, which would enable you to live at home and commute to work. These mining communities tend to be close-knit, with strong friendships forming among co-workers and their families. Because these communities are often small towns, they provide wonderful opportunities for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, snowmobiling and hiking.

Many mines are situated in remote areas and require most employees to live in a mining camp. In these mines, employees usually work on a “fly-in, fly-out” schedule. When on-site, all of your living expenses would be covered, including meals. Trained chefs and kitchen staff generally prepare meals and some camps provide accommodations for dietary restrictions and preferences.

Some camps are fairly basic, while others are well-equipped with gym, recreation, and internet facilities. Many camps provide a variety of training courses including language, yoga and First Aid. Fishing and hiking may or may not be permitted, depending on local regulations, licence requirements, and environmental considerations. Firearms are not permitted in mining camps.

Common traits that successful Process Superintendents share are:

• Ability to delegate work to achieve results
• Ability to earn and maintain respect by demonstrating credibility and integrity
• Ability to identify issues and solve problems with a positive attitude
• Ability to influence people at all levels
• Ability to make and implement difficult decisions, and communicate the reasons for them
• Cooperative
• Have a deep level of understanding and respect for legislation, regulations and procedures, concerning safety, employment and environmental protection
• Organized and a critical thinker
• Responsible and accountable
• Strong communication skills (verbal and written)
• Strong computer skills
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Team player
• Works well under pressure

Many of these traits can be developed. If you are interested in following this career path, first determine your strengths and weaknesses, and set goals in order to develop the traits you need to succeed.

Many employers want to help job seekers build a successful and fulfilling career. Here are some ways that the mining industry may support you:

• Offer job placements, training and mentoring
• Welcome applicants with experience in other industries and countries
• Have incentives to attract women and Aboriginal peoples to mining education, training and employment
• Offer parental leave, housing incentives, or flexible schedules
• Provide professional development programs to support you and to develop career progression options

Note: this table reflects what is required at the time of hire. The requirements listed below illustrate what it takes to start the career and does not take into account on-the-job training given to new employees.

Fixed Requirements

• Post-secondary degree in engineering, mining or metallurgy
• Minimum of five years of relevant process experience, including several years as a Process Supervisor in mining
• Proficiency with word processing, spreadsheet and email software
• Must be able to pass a medical test
• Must be able to pass a drug test
• Willingness to lead in a diverse environment
• Proficiency in language of operation

Regional Requirements

• Bilingual French and English (Quebec and NB)

Assets

• Willingness to relocate
• Other languages