Technical Advisor

At First Quantum, we free the talent of our people by taking a very different approach which is underpinned by a very different, very definite culture – the “First Quantum Way”.

Working with us is not like working anywhere else, which is why we recruit people who will take a bolder, smarter approach to spot opportunities, solve problems and deliver results.

Our culture is all about encouraging you to think independently and to challenge convention to deliver the best result. That’s how we continue to achieve extraordinary things in extraordinary locations.

Job description:

Overall Job Purpose

• The Technical Advisor is responsible for providing high-level technical expertise, troubleshooting support, maintenance guidance, and reliability improvement across a mixed fleet of heavy mining and earthmoving equipment.
• The successful candidate must have extensive hands-on and technical experience with Komatsu, Volvo, and Caterpillar (CAT) equipment, with a strong background in fault diagnosis, major component systems, planned maintenance, breakdown management, condition monitoring, and equipment reliability.
• The Technical Advisor will work closely with Maintenance Supervisors, Coordinators, Planners, Reliability personnel, OEM representatives, artisans, and Operations to improve equipment availability, reliability, maintenance quality, and cost performance.
• This position requires an individual capable of moving beyond basic fault finding and providing technical leadership on complex and recurring equipment failures.

Specific Job Responsibility

The specific tasks to be performed by the position holder will include;

• Provide advanced technical support for Komatsu, Volvo, and CAT heavy mining equipment.
• Lead troubleshooting and diagnosis of complex mechanical, hydraulic, electrical, electronic, engine, transmission, drivetrain, cooling, steering, braking, and control-system failures.
• Support maintenance teams during major and high-impact equipment breakdowns.
• Interpret OEM fault codes, technical manuals, hydraulic and electrical schematics, service information, and diagnostic data.
• Verify faults before major components or high-value parts are replaced.
• Provide technical direction during major component change-outs and repairs.
• Conduct post-repair inspections and functional testing before equipment is returned to service.
• Liaise with OEM and dealer technical support where specialist intervention is required.
   

Job Specific Competencies

• Tertiary qualification and/or recognized trade certificate.
• A minimum of 5-10 years` experience in heavy mechanical equipment.
• Experience in the maintenance of the following equipment is essential: Dozers D475A & D375A, CAT785C & CAT777D, Volvo A40F, WA600,WD900 and Graders GD825A.
• Strong focus on continuous improvement
• Strong leadership and good skills with ability to delegate and share tasks
• Good understanding of production and maintenance strategies for large-scale continuous operating mineral mining equipment
• Experience with work permit systems and safe work procedures to control maintenance activities and manage hazards associated with mining industry.

Key Job Attributes

• Able to handle work with a great sense of professionalism
• Possesses good organizational skills
• Good oriented person
• Maintain a professional approach to duties and responsibilities with the capability of making timely, rational decisions and an ability to meet deadlines.
• Act with honesty and integrity in all areas: maintain confidentiality in dealings with subordinates, clients and customers.
• Demonstrate accuracy, time management and organizational skills.
• Maintain a professional work ethic through effective, honest communication with supervisors, peers, and subordinates.
• Commitment to reach or exceed maintenance, operational and safety goals.
• Work effectively in a team environment, supporting other team members when needed.
• The ability and drive to manage maintenance work group in a technically challenging and geographically remote maintenance environment.
• Sound planning, analytical, and problem solving skills. 
• Well-developed interpersonal, written and oral communication skills in English. 
• Knowledge and understanding of diverse third world cultures and customs an advantage.
   

Experience required to perform in this job

• Minimum of 5 years' experience in a maintenance role.
• At least 3 years in a senior supervisory role.
• Experience in mining or other heavy duty industry.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 Certificate
• A minimum of Diploma in Mechanical Engineering or heavy mining equipment including Shovels, Drills, Electric trucks, and ancillary equipment.
• Engineering Institute of Zambia EIZ Membership.

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