Closing Date: 08 December 2025**
If you are looking for an active mining vacancy that is open for applications right now, the Glencore Coal SA Plant Operator opportunity in Emalahleni is one of the most attractive roles currently available. Glencore is one of the world’s largest mining and commodities companies, known for high safety standards, competitive salaries, professional growth and long-term employment stability.
This role is ideal for individuals with experience in coal-processing plants, production environments, or mining operations who want to grow within a world-class organisation. Below is a full breakdown of the vacancy, requirements, responsibilities and how to apply.
About Glencore Coal SA
Glencore is a global mining powerhouse with operations across coal, copper, chrome, ferroalloys, zinc, nickel, and more. In South Africa, the company is one of the biggest employers in the mining sector, operating several coal mines and processing plants in Mpumalanga and surrounding regions.
Working at Glencore means:
- A strong focus on safety, employee development and training
- Access to modern mining technology and world-class systems
- Competitive salaries and benefits
- Opportunities for long-term career growth
For workers in plant operations, Glencore offers structured learning pathways, mentorship and advancement into supervisory or specialist production roles.
Job Title: Plant Operator
Location: Emalahleni, Mpumalanga, South Africa
Department: Coal Processing
Company: Glencore Coal SA
Closing Date: 08 December 2025
This position forms part of the operational team responsible for ensuring smooth, efficient and safe functioning of the coal plant in the iMpunzi and Tweefontein Complex.
Job Overview
As a Plant Operator, your primary responsibility is to ensure stable operation of coal-processing equipment, monitoring production processes and maintaining high safety standards.
This role includes:
- Operating plant equipment
- Monitoring production processes
- Conducting visual and mechanical inspections
- Ensuring smooth out-loading and conveyor processes
- Responding to breakdowns and equipment alarms
- Supporting daily production targets
You will work alongside plant supervisors, control-room operators, fitters, artisans and safety officers in a fast-paced environment where accuracy, discipline and teamwork matter.
Key Responsibilities
Although tasks may shift based on production demands, typical duties include:
1. Operating Processing Equipment
- Running coal-processing plant machinery
- Ensuring equipment is functioning within safe operating parameters
- Adjusting controls to maintain production efficiency
2. Monitoring Production Flow
- Observing material movement on conveyors
- Checking quality of processed coal
- Reporting irregularities to supervisors
3. Out-loading Section Operations
- Managing stockpile feeding
- Ensuring accurate loading onto trucks, conveyors or stockpiles
- Following safety procedures during loading operations
4. Safety & Risk Management
- Conducting routine safety checks
- Reporting hazards and operational risks
- Ensuring compliance with Glencore safety standards
- Using PPE and maintaining clean working areas
5. Equipment Care
- Basic mechanical maintenance support
- Identifying equipment faults
- Assisting artisans during repairs
- Completing daily checklists accurately
6. Record Keeping
- Recording plant performance data
- Logging production issues
- Communicating operational updates during shift handovers
Minimum Requirements
Glencore Coal SA typically requires applicants to meet the following:
Educational Requirements
- Grade 12 / Matric certificate
- Added advantage: N2 Engineering or relevant mining-related certificates
Experience Requirements
- Previous experience in a coal-processing plant or similar industrial environment
- Experience with conveyors, screens, crushers, wash plant equipment or coal-handling systems is beneficial
Additional Requirements
- Medically fit for mining work
- Willing to work shifts, weekends and overtime
- Clear criminal record
- Ability to work in high-pressure, production-driven settings
Competencies and Skills Needed
Successful plant operators usually possess:
- Strong mechanical aptitude
- Good communication and teamwork skills
- High attention to detail
- Ability to follow safety standards
- Willingness to learn and upskill
- Problem-solving ability
- Reliability and punctuality
These qualities help ensure safe, efficient operations while meeting plant targets.
What Glencore Offers
Glencore provides a work environment that focuses on:
1. Competitive Pay
Plant Operator roles often come with solid wages, shift allowances and medical benefits.
2. Training & Development
Employees receive ongoing technical training, meaning you can build a long-term mining career.
3. World-Class Safety Standards
Glencore is known for its strict safety protocols, ensuring employees operate in a controlled and protected environment.
4. Career Growth
Plant Operators can move into:
- Control room operations
- Senior operator roles
- Shift foreman or supervisory positions
- Technical specialist roles
Why Apply for This Opportunity?
This vacancy is currently active and open for applications right now.
For job seekers in Mpumalanga or surrounding areas, the role offers:
- Job security
- Growth opportunities
- Stable work environment
- Exposure to modern mining machinery
Because Glencore is a reputable global company, employees often benefit from long-term career stability and solid employment conditions.
How to Apply
You can submit your application online through the official Glencore careers page. Typical application requirements include:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of ID
- Certified copy of Matric certificate
- Relevant qualifications (N2, mining certificates, etc.)
- Proof of residence may be requested
If you want, I can also prepare:
- A professional CV for this Glencore role
- A motivational letter tailored to the Plant Operator vacancy
- A direct application link (just ask!)
Final Notes
The Glencore Coal SA Plant Operator vacancy closing on 08 December 2025 is one of the best mining jobs available for candidates with plant, production or coal-processing experience. The role offers hands-on involvement with heavy equipment, a stable salary, and a pathway to long-term technical growth within one of the world’s largest mining companies.
If you are ready to apply, I can also generate a complete job application email, subject line, and attachments list to help you submit everything correctly.