Thabo Khoboko

Experience

• 

  Vaal University of Technology

  Jun 2004 - Jan 2009

  Student

  StudyingTutoring and mentoring

• 

  Bateman Engineering Projects

  Jan 2008 - Jun 2011

  Junior Process Engineer

  Process Plant Equipment Design: Assisted in the design and coordination of equipment (pumps, conveyors, etc.) to meet process requirements and ensure operational efficiency.Conceptual Studies: Contributed to studies for iron ore, diamond, and coal processing, evaluating process alternatives and creating process flow diagrams.Vendor and Supplier Coordination: Worked closely with vendors to ensure equipment specifications aligned with project needs.Project Costing: Assisted in preparing process descriptions, equipment lists, and BOMs/BOQs for project costing and budgeting. Show less

• 

  Great Western Minerals Group Ltd.

  Jul 2011 - Oct 2011

  Plant Metallurgist

  Represented the Employer (GWMG) at the engineering consulting company (DRA) during the detailed engineering phase of a new monazite cracking and solvent extraction plants, collaborating closely with design engineers to provide critical data, specifications, and operational requirements. Ensured alignment of design concepts with client expectations and operational needs, while facilitating effective communication between the client and the design team to ensure clarity and accuracy in process and equipment designs. Show less

• 

  Tenova Bateman

  Jul 2012 - Jul 2014

  Process Engineer

  Contributed to execution, feasibility, and conceptual studies for iron ore, diamond, and coal processing projects, evaluating process alternatives and developing preliminary designs. Supported plant commissioning and liaised with vendors and suppliers to ensure accurate equipment sizing and alignment with project needs. Additionally, assisted in project costing by providing process descriptions, equipment lists, and other necessary data for budgeting and cost estimation.

• 

  Liqhobong Mining Development Company

  Aug 2016 - Jan 2018

  Process Engineer

  Ensured operational readiness by overseeing the installation, calibration, and testing of new equipment, systems, and processes.Focused on ramping up production, minimising downtime, and meeting production targets through efficient plant operation and performance monitoring.Maintained compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations, implemented safety protocols, and conducted risk assessments and emergency drills.Managed and developed plant personnel, fostering a collaborative environment and ensuring alignment with business goals.Ensured plant adherence to legal and regulatory requirements, implemented security measures to protect assets, and optimised diamond recovery.Optimised diamond processing through continuous improvements, enhancing plant performance and reducing losses.Managed the metallurgical department budget, reduced operational costs, and improved profitability by minimising waste and optimising resource use. Show less

• 

  Liqhobong Mining Development Company (Subsidiary of Firestone Diamonds)

  Jan 2018 - Jun 2020

  Plant Manager

  Production Management: Ensures plant meets production targets by optimising operations, reducing downtime, and maintaining quality control in diamond extraction and processing.Safety & Compliance: Oversees safety programs, ensures adherence to health and environmental regulations, and implements risk-minimising protocols.People & Stakeholder Management: Manages staff development, fosters effective communication, and aligns plant goals with business objectives.Security & Legal Compliance: Ensures adherence to all legal and regulatory requirements, including mining, labour, and environmental laws, while implementing security measures.Diamond Processing Efficiency: Drives process improvements to optimise recovery rates, minimise losses, and enhance equipment performance.Cost Control: Manages production budgets, identifies cost-saving opportunities, and maximises profitability while reducing waste and maintaining efficiency. Show less

• 

  Storm Mountain Diamonds - Kao

  Jan 2021 - Jan 2021

  Processing Superintendent

  Drive the processing team to ensure maximum plant utilisation to meet daily production targets.Enhanced team cohesion and improved synergy between mining, process, and engineering teams through formal morning meetings and ad hoc meetings during the day.Identified potential issues that will affect production, being it plant machinery, inclement weather conditions or ore from the mine, facilitating timely interventions.

• 

  Marampa Mines Limited

  Jul 2022 - now

  Technical Oversight & Operations: Ensure smooth operation of equipment and systems, monitor performance, and troubleshoot operational issues.Safety & Compliance: Ensure adherence to safety and environmental regulations, develop safety protocols, and implement risk management strategies.Process Optimisation & Improvement: Lead process improvement initiatives, conduct root cause analysis, and recommend innovations to enhance performance and reduce costs.Project Management: Oversee technical projects, ensuring timely, budget-friendly completion, and coordinate with departments to align with company goals.Reporting & Documentation: Prepare technical reports, maintain project documentation, and ensure records are accurate.Liaison & Coordination: Act as the point of contact for technical issues, manage supplier and contractor relationships, and ensure quality and service standards are met. Show less Production Management: Oversee daily operations to meet production targets, monitor performance metrics (throughput, downtime, yield), and continuously optimise processes to improve efficiency and resolve bottlenecks.Team Leadership: Manage and train production teams (operators, technicians, and supervisors), ensuring effective shift operations, teamwork, and adherence to safety standards. Provide ongoing training to enhance performance and minimize errors.Safety and Compliance: Maintain safety standards, conduct audits, and ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations. Lead incident investigations, implement corrective actions, and ensure staff are trained in safety and emergency procedures.Maintenance Coordination: Collaborate with engineering teams to schedule maintenance and emergency repairs and participate in preventive maintenance planning to ensure equipment reliability and reduce downtime. Show less

  • Technical Superintendent

    Mar 2023 - now

  • Processing Superintendent

    Jul 2022 - Feb 2023