Reporting to the PIC, the LHD (Load‑Haul‑Dump) Operator operates heavy underground loaders to clear blasted ore and transport material to ore passes or stockpiles. This role is central to maintaining the production cycle in a high-speed mechanized hard‑rock environment, requiring exceptional coordination, spatial awareness, and strict adherence to underground traffic rules. The operator must navigate tight spaces, steep gradients, and low‑visibility areas while ensuring safe loading and hauling at all times.
Job Summary
Key Responsibilities
Requirements
How to Apply
Job Summary
Type: full-time
Location: Gaborone
Category: Mining
Closing Date: 2026-05-05
Key Responsibilities
Primary duties include mucking out blasted headings, controlling bucket loads, transporting ore efficiently, and maintaining smooth material flow to prevent bottlenecks.
The operator performs daily pre‑start inspections, monitors machine performance, identifies mechanical faults, and reports hazards immediately.
Responsibilities also include grading roadway floors, clearing rocks obstructing traffic routes, and maintaining work areas to prevent equipment damage or safety risks.
The operator must communicate effectively via radio, respond to instructions from the PIC, and coordinate movements with other mobile equipment operators underground.
Requirements
A Sandvik Operator Certificate for LH517i & LH621i or a Caterpillar Operator Certificate for R1700G is required, along with at least 8 years of underground loading experience on the above machinery.
Strong spatial awareness, equipment handling skill, and impeccable safety discipline are mandatory.
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: recruit.grouprmining.com
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat qualifications or certifications are typically required to become an LHD Operator in Botswana?You’ll generally need a valid heavy-duty driver’s license (Class C or higher, specific endorsements might be needed), a BGCSE or equivalent, and often a valid LHD operator certificate from a recognized training institution. Most mining companies also require a medical fitness certificate and proof of experience operating similar heavy machinery.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of an LHD Operator in a Botswana mine?LHD Operators are primarily responsible for loading mined material into trucks or onto conveyors and transporting it to designated areas within the mine, following strict safety protocols. This includes conducting pre-shift inspections, operating the machine efficiently, and reporting any mechanical issues or safety hazards immediately.
What is the typical work culture and what are the expectations for LHD Operators in Botswana’s mining industry?The mining culture in Botswana heavily emphasizes strict adherence to safety procedures, punctuality, and teamwork. Operators are expected to be disciplined, follow instructions precisely, and work rotating shifts, often in challenging underground or open-pit environments.
What are the realistic career progression opportunities for an LHD Operator in Botswana?With experience and further training, an LHD Operator can progress to roles like Senior Operator, Trainer, or even Supervisor within the mining operations. Some may cross-train on other heavy equipment or pursue technical roles, enhancing their overall versatility.
What kind of benefits package can an LHD Operator typically expect from a mining company in Botswana?
Standard benefits often include medical aid, pension fund contributions, and paid annual leave, aligning with national labour laws. Specific benefits, such as housing allowances or transport, vary significantly by employer and the terms of employment offered.
How should a job seeker apply for LHD Operator positions in Botswana, and what do employers prioritize?Apply directly through mining company websites, local recruitment agencies specializing in mining, or reputable job portals frequently used in Botswana. Employers prioritize candidates with demonstrable LHD operating experience, a strong safety record, and relevant local certifications.