The Underground Concrete Spray Specialist is responsible for the safe, accurate, and high-quality application of sprayed concrete (shotcrete) in underground mining environments only. The role supports ground stability and worker safety by applying shotcrete in accordance with approved mine designs, ground support standards, and operational procedures using mechanised concrete spray equipment.

Underground Operational Duties

• Operate underground concrete spray (shotcrete) equipment to apply sprayed concrete to roofs, sidewalls, and excavations in accordance with mine support standards.
• Prepare work areas underground, including barricading, ventilation checks, and ensuring safe access prior to spraying.
• Inspect and set up spraying equipment, hoses, pumps, and nozzles before underground operations commence.
• Control spray thickness, coverage, and rebound to meet engineering and geotechnical specifications.
• Identify unsafe ground conditions and stop work where necessary, escalating concerns to the Shift Boss or Supervisor.

Safety, Health & Environmental Compliance

• Strictly comply with all underground mine safety rules, statutory regulations, and site-specific procedures.
• Conduct workplace hazard identification and risk assessments prior to each spraying task.
• Ensure compliance with underground ventilation, dust suppression, and silica exposure controls.
• Wear and enforce prescribed PPE at all times.
• Report incidents, near misses, unsafe acts, and hazardous conditions immediately.

Quality & Reporting

• Ensure sprayed concrete meets required thickness, adhesion, curing, and finish standards.
• Record sprayed areas, volumes, locations, and shift activities accurately.
• Assist supervisors and engineers during underground inspections and quality checks.

Equipment Care & Housekeeping

• Perform daily underground equipment inspections and basic operational maintenance.
• Clean spraying equipment and work areas after completion of tasks.
• Report mechanical faults promptly to avoid downtime and safety risks.

Job Requirements

·                              Qualifications

·         Trade Test - Millwright

·         Certified Shotcrete / Concrete Spray Operator qualification (advantageous).

·         Valid underground mining induction and medical fitness certificate.

·         Blasting certificate (advantageous but not mandatory).

        Experience

·         Minimum 2–5 years’ underground shotcrete or concrete spraying experience.

·         Proven experience working in confined, mechanised underground mining environments.

·         Familiarity with ground support standards and underground geotechnical requirements.

        Technical Competence

·         Strong understanding of underground shotcrete application techniques.

·         Knowledge of concrete mix properties and curing behaviour underground.

·         Ability to identify hazardous ground conditions and react appropriately.

·         Basic mechanical skills for equipment inspection and fault identification.

        Competencies & Attributes

·         High safety awareness and compliance discipline.

·         Physically fit for underground work conditions.

·         Able to work effectively in confined spaces and low-light environments.

·         Strong teamwork and communication skills.

·         Willingness to work shifts, weekends, and extended underground hours.

        Working Conditions

·         Underground mining environment only.

·         Exposure to dust, noise, confined spaces, and variable temperatures.

·         Shift work and extended hours as dictated by underground production schedules.