Job Openings ROM Bin and Apron Feeder Operator

About the job ROM Bin and Apron Feeder Operator

Gyratory Crusher ROM Bin and Apron Feeder Operator

Department

Processing – Primary Crushing

Job Purpose

To safely operate, inspect, and maintain the ROM bin, apron feeders, and related material-handling equipment supplying the primary gyratory crusher. The operator ensures consistent ore flow, prevents blockages, manages ore blending at the bin area, and supports safe, efficient crushing performance to meet zinc production targets.

Key Responsibilities

  • ROM Bin & Apron Feeder Operation
  • Monitor ore levels in the ROM bin and maintain continuous, steady feed to the primary gyratory crusher.
  • Operate apron feeders locally as required (start, stop, reset).
  • Inspect grizzly, rock breakers (if applicable), and dump pocket for obstructions.
  • Manage oversize handling procedures and communicate with control room for ore flow adjustments.

Equipment Inspection & Field Monitoring

Conduct routine visual inspections of:

  • Apron feeder pans, chains, and rollers
  • Skirting, impact beds, and loading points
  • ROM bin structural condition
  • Ore hang-ups, bridging, or rat-holing in the bin
  • Identify abnormal vibrations, noises, leaks, or misalignment.

Safety & Compliance

Adhere strictly to:

  • Lock-out / Tag-out (LOTO) protocols
  • Permit-to-Work systems
  • Working-at-heights rules
  • Conveyor and feeder guarding standards
  • Prevent unsafe dumping practices by truck operators.
  • Maintain clear access, housekeeping, and spillage control around the ROM and feeder areas.
  • Apply correct procedures for hang-up removal (NO entry inside bin or feeder).

Handling Blockages & Upset Conditions

  • Assist with clearing blockages using safe, approved methods (e.g., water sprays, mechanical tools, or rock breaker support).
  • Communicate real-time conditions to control room during feeder trips, overloads, or bin blockage events.
  • Support safe feeder restart procedures after alarms or mechanical stops.

Coordination & Communication

  • Maintain continuous radio communication with:
  • Control Room Operator
  • Dump truck drivers / mining dispatch
  • Maintenance personnel
  • Report hazards, equipment faults, ore quality issues, or dump pocket congestion immediately.

Ore Blending & Material Quality Awareness

  • Assist in controlling ore flow by guiding truck operators on correct dumping zones (high-grade, low-grade, waste contamination avoidance).
  • Identify changes in ore type and report to control room.

Documentation & Reporting

Complete:

  • Pre-start checklists
  • ROM area inspection sheets
  • Shift handover notes
  • Equipment fault reports
  • Log spillage events, downtime, and operational irregularities.

Required Skills & Competencies

Technical Competencies

Basic understanding of:

  • ROM bin dynamics (bridging, hang-ups, live vs dead capacity)
  • Apron feeder operation and mechanical components
  • Ore flow principles going into a gyratory crusher
  • Ability to operate manual controls and identify abnormal conditions.
  • Basic mechanical appreciation (pans, chains, drives, lubrication points).

Behavioural Competencies

  • Strong safety attitude and situational awareness.
  • Effective communication and radio discipline.
  • Ability to work under pressure during plant breakdowns.
  • Teamwork and reliability.

Qualifications & Experience

  • Minimum Requirements
  • Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent.
  • 1–3 years experience in ROM pad / primary crusher operations or a similar mining environment.
  • Physically fit to perform heavy industrial field work.
  • Able to work shifts, overtime, and standby.

Preferred

  • NQF Level 2–4 qualification in Plant Operations or Mineral Processing.
  • Experience with apron feeders (Metso, FLSmidth, TAKRAF, Sandvik).
  • Experience on a zinc or base metals processing plant.

Physical & Environmental Conditions

  • Exposure to dust, noise, vibration, and heavy vehicle traffic.
  • Frequent climbing of structures and working around moving machinery.
  • Outdoor work in varying weather conditions.
  • Must be able to respond rapidly to feeder or bin upset conditions.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

  • Consistent, reliable ore feed to the crusher (minimal feeder stoppages).
  • Safety compliance (zero incidents).
  • Accuracy and reliability of inspections and reporting.
  • Housekeeping standards in ROM and feeder area.
  • Coordination with control room and truck operators.

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