Derick
Junior Quantity Surveyor (Cost Engineer) – Ref: IVP-FIN-2610
Ivanhoe Mines (Ivanplats Project)
Mokopane, Limpopo
Permanent
Posted: 30 April 2026
Closing Date: 14 May 2026
Job Overview
Ivanhoe Mines is seeking a Junior Quantity Surveyor (Cost Engineer) to support the commercial and financial management of its flagship Ivanplats project in Mokopane. This role is ideal for a junior professional with an interest in mining, cost engineering, and contract administration.
The position focuses on cost control, measurement, procurement support, and contract management within a large-scale, modern underground mining development.
Project Context
Ivanplats is a world-class palladium-rhodium-nickel-copper-gold project being developed using advanced mechanised underground mining methods. The operation represents a “mine of the future,” requiring strong commercial discipline and accurate cost tracking across complex mining activities.
Key Responsibilities
Cost Management & Control
- Assist in preparing CAPEX and OPEX cost estimates and budgets
- Monitor actual costs against budget and identify variances
- Support monthly cost reporting and forecasting
- Contribute to cost-saving initiatives and efficiency improvements
Measurement & Valuation
- Measure completed work on site (e.g., drilling, blasting, earthworks, construction)
- Assist with interim payment certificates for contractors
- Verify contractor claims against actual progress and contract terms
- Support final account preparation and project close-out
Contract Administration
- Assist in managing contracts, purchase orders, and service agreements
- Ensure compliance with contract terms, scope, and pricing structures
- Track contract milestones, obligations, and deliverables
- Support variation orders and change management processes
Procurement Support
- Assist in preparing tender documentation and BOQs
- Evaluate supplier and contractor bids from a commercial perspective
- Support negotiations with suppliers and subcontractors
- Ensure procurement aligns with project budgets and strategy
Claims & Variations
- Identify and document claims, delays, and scope changes
- Prepare supporting documentation for contractual claims
- Assist in resolving disputes with senior commercial staff
- Ensure proper cost recovery where applicable
Financial Reporting
- Assist in monthly financial reporting and cost tracking
- Support cash flow forecasting and expenditure monitoring
- Ensure accuracy of financial and project documentation
- Assist with audit preparation and compliance requirements
Site & Operational Support
- Conduct site visits to verify progress and measured quantities
- Align commercial tracking with mining operations such as:
- Drilling and blasting
- Hauling and processing
- Overburden removal
- Support coordination between technical and commercial teams
Minimum Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree or postgraduate diploma in Quantity Surveying
- Candidate QS registration (or working towards registration)
- Exposure to BOQs, measurements, and valuations
- 0–5 years’ experience in mining, infrastructure, or heavy industry environments
- Knowledge of contract law and cost control (advantageous)
Key Skills & Competencies
- Strong numerical and analytical ability
- Advanced Microsoft Excel skills
- Good understanding of contracts (FIDIC/NEC advantageous)
- Strong attention to detail
- Good communication and negotiation skills
- Basic understanding of mining operations and cost drivers
- Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment
Learning & Development Focus
This junior role offers exposure to:
- Mining cost structures (labour, fuel, equipment, production costs)
- Contract types (lump sum, re-measurable, cost-plus)
- Industry systems (SAP, JDE, CAM, Excel modelling tools)
- Commercial risk management in mining environments
Ideal Candidate Profile
- Detail-oriented and numerically strong
- Eager to develop a career in mining cost engineering
- Able to work in a team under senior guidance
- Strong interest in commercial and contract management
- Willing to work in a site-based mining environment
Additional Information
- Preference given to Historically Disadvantaged South Africans (HDSA) and women from local communities
- Only South African citizens or permanent residents may apply
- Applications submitted after the closing date will not be considered
Application Process
Apply via the official Ivanhoe Mines careers platform. If no response is received within 14 days after closing date, consider the application unsuccessful.
