Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Palapye
- Category: Occupational Health & Safety
- Closing Date: 2026-05-08
Key Responsibilities
- Monitor and evaluate performance against established safety strategies, frameworks, systems, and programmes, identifying and advising on opportunities for improvement to provide assurance.
- Interpret operational requirements and integrate these with discipline-based financial needs to ensure the availability of resources required to meet business objectives.
- Execute Stay-in-Business and capital projects related to safety and health.
- Manage the development and execution of the overall Safety and Health functional strategy aligned to the Morupule Coal Mine Strategic Business Plan, providing visible and effective leadership.
- Contribute to the formulation and implementation of Safety and Health policies and strategies for the mine in alignment with organisational strategic goals.
- Provide strategic orientation, vision, and direction to pursue opportunities that support business objectives.
- Manage the mine’s Safety and Health agenda and set parameters for the development, implementation, and monitoring of programmes related to occupational safety and health, mine safety, legal compliance, operational risk assurance, and emergency planning.
- Analyse safety and health developments, trends, and industry best practices, assess their impact on the mine’s strategy, and recommend adaptations where necessary in consultation with executive leadership.
- Ensure a coordinated and integrated approach to Safety and Health activities by managing linkages with internal and external partners.
- Provide direction on planning requirements for sustainability-focused safety and health programmes, strategies, risks, and opportunities.
- Manage Safety and Health reporting systems and issue regular management reports to inform leadership of key performance areas and obtain approvals for any required changes.
- Maintain and enhance management tools, systems, and practices to ensure robust safety and health implementation and sustainable compliance outcomes.
- Manage processes related to safety and health sustainability assurance and statutory compliance, leading interventions to improve legal and compliance systems.
- Initiate and manage safety-related projects in accordance with recognised best-practice principles.
- Oversee the safety and health programmes in line with operational strategy and objectives.
- Establish and integrate the safety component of the organisational 3-5-year plan across all functions.
- Interface externally with regulators, industry bodies, and community stakeholders on emerging safety issues, trends, and legislative developments (e.g. Botswana Chamber of Mines forums).
- Lead the Operational Risk Management Process (ORMP), including analysis of safety data, standards, and work execution, to improve risk control strategies, issue registers, and management-of-change processes.
- Drive continuous improvement of the Safety Management System by providing technical input into initiatives that build line management capability and capacity.
- Manage subordinate performance through setting objectives, monitoring results, conducting reviews, and implementing corrective actions where necessary.
- Develop, build, and sustain team capability through structured training, succession planning, localisation initiatives, and targeted recruitment.
- Establish and maintain effective working relationships with key stakeholders to support achievement of business objectives.
- Undertake additional duties as assigned in support of operational requirements.
Requirements
- ISO standardisation principles
- Operational risk management and mitigation
- Emergency preparedness and response
- Ecosystem management and sustainability
- Occupational Safety, Health, Hygiene, and Environmental Management
- Knowledge of occupational hazards and risks
- Incident and accident investigation techniques
- Safety, Health, and Environment (SHE) software systems
- Degree in Safety Management, Environmental Health/ Environmental Management sciences, Occupational Hygiene or equivalent
- 10 years + experience with 3 years at managerial level
- Understanding of Occupational Health & Safety Management Systems i.e. ISO 45001 and Environmental Management System ISO 14001
- Valid Class B Driver’s license
- Management/Supervisory Development Programme will be an added advantage
- Prospective candidates must be medically and physically fit, willing to work in an underground coal mining environment, and able to meet demanding schedules.
Salary
competitive salary package
How to Apply
About the Company
Morupule Coal Mine, established in Botswana in 1973, operates as a key player in the nation's energy and mining sectors. This significant enterprise is wholly owned by the Minerals Development Company Botswana (MDCB). The mine focuses on the extraction and provision of coal, contributing essential resources to the country. Morupule Coal Mine is committed to maintaining its position as a globally competitive entity within the coal industry, bolstering Botswana's economic development.
Delivering globally competitive coal from Botswana.
Website: https://mcm.co.bw/
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical qualifications and certifications required for a Safety Manager role in a mining environment in Botswana?
You'll typically need a relevant degree or diploma in Occupational Health & Safety, Environmental Health, or Engineering. Essential certifications often include SAMTRAC, NEBOSH, or similar internationally recognized safety qualifications, alongside practical experience in a heavy industrial or mining setting.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of a Safety Manager at a coal mine in Botswana?
Daily tasks involve conducting safety audits, investigating incidents, developing and implementing safety policies, and ensuring compliance with national mining regulations. You'll also be responsible for safety training for staff and fostering a proactive safety culture across all mine operations.
What is the typical work culture and expectation for a Safety Manager in the Botswana mining sector?
The culture emphasizes strict adherence to safety protocols and a strong commitment to local content development and community engagement. You will be expected to demonstrate leadership, adaptability, and a collaborative approach with a diverse workforce, often operating in remote locations.
What are the realistic career progression opportunities for a Safety Manager in the Botswana mining industry?
Career paths can lead to senior management roles such as Head of Health, Safety, Environment, and Quality (HSEQ), or even site general management positions within the mining sector. Further specialization or moving into consultancy roles are also viable options after gaining significant experience.
What kind of benefits package (e.g., leave, medical aid, pension) can a Safety Manager expect in Botswana's mining sector?
Standard benefits generally include comprehensive medical aid, a provident or pension fund, and annual leave entitlement that often increases with tenure. Many mining companies also offer housing allowances, transport assistance, or relocation support, especially for roles in remote areas.
How should one apply for a Safety Manager position in Botswana, and what do employers typically look for in candidates?
Applications are usually submitted online through company portals or professional recruitment agencies, requiring a detailed CV and cover letter. Employers seek candidates with proven experience in safety management, strong knowledge of local mining legislation, and excellent communication and leadership skills.