The Emergency Response Officer is required to complete work instructions relating to site emergency readiness and preparedness, emergency intervention activities at Motheo Mine. The ERO is a member of the site Emergency Response Team (ERT) and assure first response to site emergency incidents, while also supporting site emergency-related training and simulations, awareness, and communication.
Job Summary
- Employer: Sandfire Motheo
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Ghanzi, Botswana
- Category: HSES
- Closing Date: 2026-10-12
Key Responsibilities
- Participate in the development and maintenance of emergency management plans and related procedures.
- Ensure that emergency response team members are selected, inducted, and assigned duties in relation to emergency procedures.
- Conduct inductions on the Emergency Response Plans, procedures, and checklists for ERT members and employees.
- Organize external specialized training for ERT members.
- Coordinate weekly in-house trainings and mine pit tours for ERT.
- Attend specialized ER training courses recommended by the employer.
- Establish emergency assembly points and first aid stations on site.
- Facilitate periodic service and maintenance of emergency response vehicles, equipment, and materials.
- Conduct regular inspections of emergency response equipment and materials and keep an up-to-date inventory.
- In case of emergency, intervene as directed by the ER Superintendent.
- Advise personnel on potential threats and initiate and coordinate local and general evacuation procedures.
- Restrict access to the incident scene and surrounding area as the situation demands.
- Coordinate/complete additional internal and external notifications in liaison with the Emergency Response Superintendent and HSES Manager.
- Ensure proper emergency communication and provide constructive feedback during and after emergency interventions.
- Prepare briefing reports on lessons learned during emergency response and simulations and participate in updating the ER Plans accordingly.
- Implement annual emergency simulation plan and submit reports to Emergency Response Superintendent.
- Work closely with external stakeholders, such as the local fire brigade and medical services providers.
Requirements
- Diploma of Paramedical Science or related discipline with a professional qualification
- 5+ years’ post qualification experience within a paramedic emergency response role or equivalent
- At a minimum, 2 years of experience in working with emergencies in mining or other heavy industries environment.
- Valid driver’s license and valid professional driver’s (PrDP) permit for transporting patients
- Must be medically fit for the position and environment.
How to Apply
REF Code: Ref 341
About the Company
Sandfire Motheo is a copper mining company operating in Botswana, specifically developing the Motheo Copper Project in the Kalahari Copper Belt near Ghanzi. The company is a subsidiary of Sandfire Resources, an Australian-listed mining group, and focuses on bringing the Motheo mine into production as a significant new copper operation in the country. The project represents a major investment in Botswana's mining sector, with the potential to become a substantial employer and contributor to the national economy through copper concentrate exports. Sandfire Motheo's operations in Botswana include open-pit mining and processing facilities designed to extract copper and silver from the region's sediment-hosted mineral deposits.
Developing Botswana's next generation of copper production
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications do I need to become an Emergency Response Officer at a mining operation in Botswana?
You typically need a minimum of a Diploma in Emergency Medical Care, Fire Technology, or Occupational Health and Safety from a recognized institution like BIUST or ABM University College. Essential certifications include First Aid Level 3, Fire Fighting Level 2, and Hazardous Materials Handling. A valid Botswana driver's license and registration with relevant professional bodies such as the Botswana Health Professions Council strengthen your application.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of an Emergency Response Officer in Botswana's mining sector?
Daily duties include conducting safety inspections, maintaining emergency equipment, and coordinating drills for fire, medical, and evacuation scenarios. You will respond to on-site incidents, provide immediate medical care, and document all safety events for HSES reporting. Shift work is common, including night rotations and being on standby for emergencies.
How does workplace culture and employer expectations differ for Emergency Response Officers in Botswana compared to other countries?
Botswana employers emphasize respect for hierarchy and clear communication protocols, with strong expectations for punctuality and reliability due to remote mine locations. Community engagement is valued, as mining companies often operate near villages and prioritize local employment. You will be expected to adapt to multicultural teams and participate in continuous training mandated by the Department of Mines.
What career progression opportunities exist for Emergency Response Officers in Botswana's mining and resources sector?
With experience, you can advance to Senior Emergency Response Officer, HSES Coordinator, or Site Safety Manager roles. Further studies in Occupational Health and Safety Management or Risk Management from institutions like BQA-registered providers open doors to consultancy or government inspector positions. Some professionals transition into corporate safety roles or establish private emergency response training businesses.
What benefits should I expect when working as an Emergency Response Officer at a major mining operation in Botswana?
Standard benefits typically include medical aid coverage, pension contributions, and annual leave as prescribed by Botswana labour law. Remote site positions often provide accommodation, meals, and transport to and from site. Some employers offer performance bonuses, professional development funding, and hardship allowances for fly-in-fly-out arrangements.
How do I apply for Emergency Response Officer positions in Botswana, and what do employers prioritize in candidates?
Apply through company career portals, recruitment agencies like People & Partners or HRMC, and job boards such as CareerPool Botswana. Employers prioritize candidates with proven emergency response experience, strong physical fitness, and clear criminal records. Highlight any prior mining exposure, teamwork abilities, and your willingness to work in remote locations like the Kalahari or Central District.
