Principal Headframe Engineer

Headframe Engineer (Principal) – Role Overview

Lead the design and delivery of mine headframes and hoisting infrastructure across Europe and Africa, from concept through detailed design and construction support.

Responsibilities

Project Delivery & Design Leadership

• Lead structural design for headframes, back legs, and collar-level structures from concept through detailed design and construction phases.
• Apply advanced structural engineering principles to develop safe, efficient, and innovative solutions addressing static, dynamic, fatigue, wind, seismic, and operational hoisting loads.
• Ensure compliance with international and local standards, mining regulations, and industry guidance for hoisting and shaft infrastructure.
• Undertake and review analyses, including load assessments, hoist/rope‑sheave layouts, skip dump arrangements, ground‑structure interaction, and temporary/permanent works design.
• Integrate interfaces across the hoisting system, producing clear GA drawings, 3D models, clearance diagrams, and installation sections.

Build & Grow the Practice

• Recruit, mentor and develop a high‑performing headframe/hoisting team; establish skills matrices, training plans, and technical governance.
• Define and own the workstream strategy for Europe and Africa, including capability roadmaps, preferred suppliers/fabricators, and delivery models.
• Implement quality assurance and design review processes; champion innovation and knowledge sharing.

Client, Market & Commercial

• Support and lead business development: identify opportunities, shape pursuit strategies, write proposals, and present to clients.
• Build enduring relationships with owners, EPC/EPCM partners, hoist OEMs, steel fabricators, and regional delivery partners.
• Manage scope, programme, risk, and budgets, working closely with project managers to achieve commercial targets.

Site & Construction Support

• Conduct site inspections; supervise headframe erection and commissioning; provide technical input during shaft sinking and conversion to production.
• Promote health, safety, equality, and sustainability in all aspects of work, adhering to company policies and values.

Qualifications and Success Criteria

• Degree in Civil, Structural or Mechanical Engineering (postgraduate qualification desirable).
• 10–15 years of experience in the structural design of mine headframes/hoisting infrastructure.
• Strong understanding of structural behaviour under complex loading: dynamic hoist loads, fatigue, wind/seismic, impact, vibration; familiarity with ground‑structure interaction for headgear foundations and back legs.
• Proficiency in structural analysis/modelling tools such as STAAD.Pro, SAP2000, MIDAS, Robot or similar, and coordination with geotechnical/numerical models.
• Demonstrated ability to lead multi‑disciplinary teams and grow capability (hiring, coaching, resource planning).
• Excellent communication skills and willingness to travel in the UK and internationally (Europe and Africa).
• Experience engaging with hoist OEMs and regional supply chains; additional languages (e.g., French, Portuguese) are an advantage.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, religion, or belief. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and encourage applicants who require workplace adjustments to let us know.

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