Huakan International Botswana (Pty) Ltd is a mining-services contractor carrying out underground diamond core drilling operations in Botswana. The company invites applications from suitably qualified and experienced candidates for the following position:
Job Summary
- Employer: Huakan International Botswana (Pty) Ltd
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Gaborone, Botswana
- Category: Mining
- Salary: attractive salary and other fringe benefits
- Closing Date: 2026-10-23
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver structured on-the-job training and hands-on coaching in underground diamond (wireline) core drilling to local drilling crews, from offsider / assistant driller level up to driller level.
- Operate, demonstrate and supervise the operation of underground diamond drill rigs, including Boart Longyear LM90 (manual and DCI), LM75 and Swick Gen I / Gen II rigs; familiarity with Epiroc Diamec Smart 8 / U8, Sandvik DU311 / DU431 / DE710 or Newland Erebus rigs is an advantage.
- Set up, dismantle, relocate and level drill rigs at underground drill stations; manage rig water, power and drilling-fluid systems.
- Achieve and sustain contracted drilling metrage, penetration rates and core-recovery targets in hard-rock underground conditions, and train crews to the same standard.
- Train trainees in directional drilling, wireline coring techniques (NQ / HQ / PQ), down-hole tool handling and core retrieval.
- Perform and teach routine servicing, breakdown maintenance and troubleshooting of rig mechanical, hydraulic and electrical systems.
- Supervise core handling: extraction, marking, packing, presentation and delivery of core to the client; maintain drilling logs, shift reports and metrage records.
- Enforce mine safety procedures, pre-start checks and hazard identification; ensure compliance with Botswana mines and minerals legislation, mine SHE standards and company policies.
- Assess trainee competence against agreed standards and maintain individual training and assessment records.
Requirements
- Completion of secondary education; a formal drilling qualification (e.g. Certificate III in Drilling Operations or equivalent vocational certification) is an advantage.
- Minimum eight (8) years’ post-training experience in underground diamond (wireline) core drilling, of which at least three (3) years in a senior driller, drilling supervisor or drilling trainer role.
- Proven, verifiable track record of consistently achieving high drilling metrage and core-recovery performance in hard-rock underground operations; applicants must be able to evidence the metrage achieved per month / per annum.
- Demonstrated hands-on competence on underground wireline rigs: Boart Longyear LM90 (manual and DCI) and LM75, Swick Gen I / Gen II; working knowledge of Epiroc Diamec, Sandvik DU-series or Newland Erebus rigs is an advantage.
- Practical experience in directional drilling, wireline coring and down-hole tools.
- Competence in rig maintenance and fault-finding (mechanical, hydraulic and electrical).
- Demonstrated experience in training, mentoring, supervising and assessing drilling crews.
- Valid safety training certification (hazard identification, first aid); OSHA or equivalent occupational safety training is an advantage.
- Medically fit for underground work and willing to work shift / rotational rosters.
- Working proficiency in English (spoken and written).
Salary
attractive salary and other fringe benefits
How to Apply
Applications, comprising of detailed curriculum vitae, certified copies of academic and trade certificates, a certified copy of the national identity card or passport, and the contact details of at least three (3) traceable referees, should be submitted to: The Human Resources Manager, Huakan International Botswana (Pty) Ltd. P. O. Box 82144, Station, Gaborone, Plot 16616, Riverside Ward, Maun. Email: yangzhijie@huakanbw.com | Tel: +26776049839, linqingxiao@huakanbw.com | Tel: +26776003985 quoting reference DDT/2026/04 on the application. Closing date for applications: [16 days after first publication]. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Huakan International Botswana (Pty) Ltd is an equal-opportunity employer. Botswana citizens are strongly encouraged to apply; where no suitably qualified and experienced citizen is available, the appointment of a non-citizen will be processed in accordance with the Employment of Non-Citizens legislation of Botswana.
REF Code: DDT/2026/04
Original Advert
Source document for this listing, published by Jobs Botswana.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications do I need to become a Diamond Drill Trainer in Botswana?
You typically need a Diploma or Certificate in Mining Engineering or Drilling from institutions like Botswana International University of Science and Technology or recognised technical colleges. A valid Botswana Chamber of Mines certificate and several years of hands-on underground diamond core drilling experience are essential. Additional safety certifications such as First Aid and Hazard Awareness are usually required by employers.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Diamond Drill Trainer?
You will train drill operators on proper underground diamond core drilling techniques, equipment maintenance, and safety protocols. Daily tasks include conducting practical demonstrations, assessing trainee competency, and ensuring compliance with Botswana's Mine Safety Act regulations. You will also document training progress and report to mine management on workforce development.
How does workplace culture in Botswana's mining sector affect this role?
Botswana's mining culture emphasises strict hierarchy, respect for seniority, and strong adherence to safety standards given the country's zero-tolerance approach to mining accidents. You will work in diverse teams including local Batswana and expatriate workers, requiring cultural sensitivity and clear communication. Punctuality and reliability are highly valued, as remote mine sites operate on rigid schedules.
What career progression opportunities exist for Diamond Drill Trainers in Botswana?
Experienced trainers can advance to Senior Training Officer, Drilling Superintendent, or Mine Operations Manager positions within major mines like Jwaneng or Orapa. Some transition into consulting roles or join the Botswana Chamber of Mines as safety inspectors. Further studies through Botswana Open University or international mining institutions can accelerate promotion prospects.
What benefits are typically offered for this position in Botswana?
Employers usually provide medical aid coverage, pension contributions through the Botswana Public Officers Pension Fund or private schemes, and paid annual leave as mandated by Botswana labour law. Remote mine sites often include accommodation, meals, and transport to site. Some companies offer performance bonuses and professional development allowances.
How should I apply for a Diamond Drill Trainer position, and what do Botswana mining employers prioritise?
Submit your CV and certified copies of qualifications directly through company career portals or the Botswana Chamber of Mines job board. Employers prioritise proven underground drilling experience, verifiable training credentials, and a clean safety record. Strong references from previous mine supervisors and demonstrated leadership abilities significantly strengthen your application.
