Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Harare
- Category: Trades & Artisanship
- Closing Date: 2026-09-13
Key Responsibilities
- Maintaining refractory for hot gas generator, ladles, tapping and granulation launders and converters
- Maintaining all refractory lined ducts
- Maintaining furnace tapholes and all other refractory work related to the furnace
- Condition monitoring of all Smelter refractory units
- Working closely with Materials Department with respect to refractory related products stock control and refractory testing
- Supervising refractory mason assistants
- Maintaining laboratory fusion furnaces
- Supporting and implementing the Business Management System (BMS)
Requirements
- Possession of a nationally recognized refractory mason trade certificate
- A minimum of 3 years post apprenticeship experience
- Tradesman experience in all aspects of smelter refractory maintenance, including but not limited to maintenance on hot gas generators, furnace, converters, ladles, ducts, tapping and granulation launders
- Experience in furnace relines would be an added advantage
- Familiarity with Zimplats Management System and SAP will be added advantage
- A self-starter with excellent interpersonal, planning and problem-solving skills
- Supervision experience is a must
How to Apply
REF Code: SMC20260704
About the Company
Zimbabwe Platinum Mines (Pvt) Limited (ZIMPLATS) is established as the largest producer of platinum group metals (PGMs) in Zimbabwe. The company's core operations are centered around the ownership and management of the Ngezi Underground Mines. These extensive mining activities underscore ZIMPLATS' significant contribution to Zimbabwe's robust mining sector. Through its focused extraction and processing, ZIMPLATS continues to lead the industry in the country.
ZIMPLATS: Zimbabwe's leading producer of platinum group metals.
Website: https://www.zimplats.com/overseer-miner/
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or certifications are required to apply for the Refractory Mason role at ZIMPLATS?
Applicants typically need a National Certificate in Masonry or Refractory Lining from a recognized Zimbabwean institution like ZIMSEC-accredited technical colleges or the Zimbabwe School of Mines. Relevant artisan apprenticeship completion under the National Apprenticeship Board (NAB) and valid trade test certification from the Vocational Training Council (VTC) are essential. Prior experience with high-temperature linings in mining or metallurgical settings is strongly preferred.
What does a typical day look like for a Refractory Mason at a platinum mine in Zimbabwe?
Daily tasks include inspecting, repairing, and installing refractory linings in furnaces, kilns, and converters, often under strict safety protocols and shift-based rosters common in Zimbabwean mining operations. You’ll work closely with engineers and supervisors, use hand and power tools, and adhere to JSE-compliant health and safety standards enforced by the Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare. Site-specific hazard assessments and daily toolbox talks are standard practice on ZIMPLATS sites.
How does workplace culture and expectations differ for artisans in Zimbabwean mines compared to other countries?
Zimbabwean mining workplaces emphasize hierarchy, punctuality, and respect for supervisory authority, with strong alignment to national labour laws and collective bargaining agreements negotiated by unions like ZIMAWEL. Attendance, adherence to PPE requirements, and participation in mandatory safety inductions — including those aligned with the Mines and Minerals Act and OSH legislation — are non-negotiable. Teamwork and reliability are highly valued, especially given infrastructure and resource constraints common on local sites.
What career progression opportunities exist for a qualified Refractory Mason in Zimbabwe’s mining sector?
With experience and further training, artisans can progress to roles such as Senior Artisan, Artisan Supervisor, or Trade Instructor at company-sponsored training centres like ZIMPLATS’ own Technical Training Institute. Some pursue NQF Level 5/6 qualifications through institutions like the National University of Science and Technology (NUST) or Harare Polytechnic to transition into engineering technician or maintenance planning roles. Internal promotion is common but depends on performance appraisals, safety record, and availability of vacancies.
What benefits — such as leave, medical aid, and pension — are typically offered to artisan staff at ZIMPLATS?
Artisans employed directly by ZIMPLATS generally receive 30 days annual leave, sick leave in line with the Labour Act, and access to company-sponsored medical aid through providers like NSSA-affiliated schemes or private plans such as Fidelity Life. A contributory pension scheme is standard, often administered via the National Social Security Authority (NSSA) and supplemented by an employer-backed retirement fund. Housing allowances or mine-owned accommodation may be available depending on site and tenure.