Loco Driver – South Deep Gold Mine Full Time Job

Applicants are invited to apply for the Loco Driver – South Deep Gold Mine

This is a powerful opportunity to join one of South Africa’s most advanced mining operations and contribute to a team that is committed to becoming a beacon of pride for employees, communities, stakeholders, and shareholders.

At South Deep Gold Mine, part of the globally respected Gold Fields group, employees are empowered to grow, develop, and contribute meaningfully to a high-performance environment. The organisation places strong emphasis on safety, innovation, teamwork, and continuous improvement, ensuring that every individual’s contribution is valued.

Role Overview

The Loco Driver is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of rail-bound locomotive equipment within the underground mining environment. This includes the transportation of personnel, materials, and ore using battery-operated locomotives.

This role is critical to ensuring smooth mining operations, as it directly supports production flow and operational logistics. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong technical ability, a deep commitment to safety, and the ability to perform under demanding underground conditions.

Purpose of the Role

The primary purpose of this position is to ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient transportation of teams, materials, and ore within the mine, while maintaining strict compliance with safety regulations and operational standards.

The Loco Driver plays a key role in supporting production targets, minimising downtime, and ensuring the integrity of transport systems underground.

Key Responsibilities For Loco Driver – South Deep Gold Mine

Safe Operation of Locomotive Systems

• Operate battery-powered locomotives in accordance with established procedures
• Transport personnel, materials, and ore safely between designated points
• Ensure all movements are conducted in a controlled and safe manner

Health, Safety, and Compliance

• Apply all relevant safety standards, procedures, and legal requirements
• Ensure the safety of self and team members at all times
• Participate actively in safety meetings, campaigns, and initiatives
• Identify and report hazards, incidents, and unsafe conditions

Pre-Operational and Daily Inspections

• Conduct detailed pre-operation inspections of locomotives and equipment
• Ensure all systems are functioning correctly before use
• Identify mechanical or operational faults and report them immediately
• Prevent unsafe operations by ensuring only compliant equipment is used

Operational Planning and Task Execution

• Attend daily morning briefings and receive work instructions
• Ensure full understanding of assigned tasks before execution
• Follow transportation schedules to meet operational deadlines
• Adapt to changing operational requirements when necessary

Equipment Care and Maintenance Awareness

• Monitor locomotive performance during operation
• Ensure equipment remains in good working condition
• Assist with minor troubleshooting and report maintenance needs
• Support efforts to reduce downtime and improve equipment reliability

Transport of Materials and Specialized Loads

• Safely transport ore, equipment, and materials as required
• Apply correct handling procedures for sensitive or hazardous materials
• Demonstrate knowledge of explosive handling and transportation standards where applicable

Emergency and Incident Response

• Respond appropriately to operational emergencies
• Follow established procedures in the event of equipment failure or safety incidents
• Maintain composure and act decisively under pressure

Minimum Requirements

Education

• Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent

Certifications and Assessments

• Valid Loco Driver’s Certificate / License
• Appropriate Dover Assessment – B Level

Experience

• Minimum of 2 years’ experience as a Loco Driver (Battery Operated)
• Experience in underground mining environments is highly advantageous

Medical Fitness

• Must be declared medically fit for underground mining work
• Must pass a Heat Tolerance Screening Test
• Must meet all occupational health requirements as determined by the company

Key Competencies

• Proven commitment to safety leadership and compliance
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to read, interpret, and follow operational procedures
• Knowledge of transportation systems and scheduling
• Intermediate understanding of locomotive operations and re-railing procedures
• Awareness of explosive handling standards (advantageous)

Skills and Abilities

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to work under pressure in a high-risk environment
• Good problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Ability to work independently and within a team
• Effective time management and organisational skills

Work Environment

This role operates within an underground mining environment, which includes:

• Confined working spaces
• Elevated temperatures and physically demanding conditions
• Exposure to heavy machinery and operational hazards

Strict adherence to safety protocols is essential at all times.

Personal Attributes

• Safety-focused with a strong sense of responsibility
• Reliable, disciplined, and accountable
• Physically and mentally resilient
• Calm under pressure and able to act decisively
• Team-oriented with a positive attitude
• Committed to continuous improvement and learning

Why Join Gold Fields – South Deep

• Be part of a globally respected mining organisation
• Work in one of South Africa’s most advanced mining operations
• Access structured training and development opportunities
• Contribute to meaningful work that impacts the economy and communities
• Join a culture built on safety, respect, and performance excellence

Important Application Notes

• All relevant certificates must be attached to your CV
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
• Candidates must meet all health and safety requirements
• Additional screening and assessments may be conducted

You can also check:

Available jobs in Gauteng

How to write a professional CV guide 2026