Refractory Artisan – Smelter Engineering

About the role

We are looking for a skilled Refractory Artisan to join the Smelter Engineering team at Kansanshi Mining Plc. The role involves installing, maintaining and repairing refractory linings, acid‑proof installations and related civil structures within the smelter environment.

Key responsibilities

• Demolish and rebuild refractory‑lined furnaces, vessels, ladles and launders according to design drawings and supplier guidelines.
• Install and repair acid‑resistant linings and cast civil structures.
• Perform bricklaying, casting, ramming, gunning, carpentry, scaffolding and drilling of tuyere holes.
• Operate and maintain tools and equipment such as mixers, gunning machines, cutting machines, brick‑support jacks, forklifts, jack‑hammers and hand tools.
• Carry out basic rigging, slinging, crane hand‑signalling and hoist operations for lifting refractory materials.
• Ensure safe storage, cleaning and regular inspection of all equipment.
• Supervise assigned assistants, report progress and complete job cards on time.
• Adhere to health, safety, environment and quality policies and relevant regulations.

Required profile

• Minimum Grade 12 certificate and a recognised bricklaying apprenticeship (at least 2 years).
• Trade certificate in Bricklaying.
• At least 5 years experience as a refractory artisan in a smelter environment.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings.
• Knowledge of fibre‑glass vessel repair, basic fitting and experience with molten metal or acid plants is desirable.

Required skills

• Refractory bricklaying
• Demolition and reconstruction of refractory linings
• Acid‑resistant lining installation
• Casting, ramming and gunning
• Carpentry and scaffolding
• Drilling (tuyere holes)
• Operation of mixers, gunning machines, cutting machines, forklifts, jack‑hammers
• Rigging, slinging, crane hand‑signalling and hoist operation
• Reading technical drawings