Mine Manager, Surface Operations

About Mariana Minerals Mariana Minerals is a software-first, vertically integrated minerals company focused on supplying the minerals critical to modern energy, AI, and defense technologies. We are committed to operational excellence, safety, and innovation across all aspects of our business. Position Overview We are seeking a dynamic and results-oriented Mine Manager to lead all aspects of our surface mining operations. This pivotal role is responsible for ensuring safe, efficient, and cost-effective production while driving continuous improvement across drilling, blasting, loading, hauling, maintenance, and support functions. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of delivering measurable cost savings, operational efficiencies, and safety enhancements, while fostering a high-performance, collaborative work culture. This is a hands-on leadership position requiring demonstrated experience in mine expansion, crushing/conveying systems, leach pad stacking, and brownfield & greenfield mine development. The successful candidate will be able to provide specific examples of initiatives that have led to tangible improvements in production, maintenance, operator performance, and personnel development. Key Responsibilities Operational Leadership & Cost Efficiency - Develop and execute mine plans to achieve production targets while optimizing costs. - Lead and document continuous improvement projects (e.g., mine sequencing, haul road design, maintenance strategy changes) with clear ROI and payback periods. - Oversee drilling and blasting operations to maximize fragmentation and minimize costs. - Manage haulage and loading operations to improve cycle times and reduce operating expenses. - Provide specific examples of initiatives that resulted in hard-dollar savings (e.g., improved fleet utilization, reduced downtime, optimized blasting patterns, or fuel efficiency gains). Maintenance & Fleet Performance - Implement preventive and predictive maintenance programs to extend equipment life and reduce repair costs. - Demonstrate past successes in reducing maintenance costs (e.g., extended component life, reduced rebuild frequency, improved parts inventory management). - Possess detailed knowledge of equipment repairs and maintenance program implementation, including experience working with major OEM equipment vendors and support personnel. - Optimize mobile fleet performance through operator training, telematics, and performance benchmarking. Safety & Compliance - Champion a zero-harm culture through visible safety leadership and engagement. - Lead safety initiatives that have demonstrably reduced incidents (e.g., behavioral-based safety programs, near-miss reporting improvements, fatigue management). - Ensure full compliance with MSHA, OSHA, and environmental regulations. Team Leadership & Culture Development - Lead and develop large, multidisciplinary teams (30+ personnel) across drilling, blasting, hauling, maintenance, and support functions. - Build high-performing teams through mentorship, skills development, and incentive structures that drive engagement and results. - Foster a positive workforce culture, reducing turnover, improving cross-shift communication, and encouraging employee-led innovation. - Lead by example supporting and participating in new technology implementation & testing Mine Expansion & Capital Projects - Drive brownfield and greenfield mine development, including permitting, infrastructure, and commissioning. - Lead capital projects (e.g., crusher/conveyor installations, leach pad expansions, fleet upgrades) with a focus on cost control and execution efficiency. Qualifications & Experience - Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in surface mining operations, with at least 5 years in a leadership role managing large teams (30+ employees) at high-production sites. - Demonstrated success in delivering operational improvements, cost savings, and safety enhancements. - Strong knowledge of mine planning,