Rail Siding Manager at Oza Holdings

To manage and optimise all rail siding operations related to coal handling, loading, dispatch, stock control, safety, maintenance coordination, and logistics performance to ensure efficient turnaround times, operational compliance, and achievement of production and export targets.


Rail Siding Operations Management


Manage day-to-day rail siding operations for coal loading and dispatch.
Ensure efficient rail wagon loading, staging, shunting coordination, and dispatch activities.
Monitor operational performance to achieve loading targets and turnaround times.
Coordinate train schedules with logistics providers and operational teams.
Ensure optimal utilisation of rail siding infrastructure and equipment.


Coal Handling & Stock Management


Oversee coal stockpile management and movement within the siding area.
Ensure correct coal grades are loaded according to customer specifications.
Monitor stock levels, reconciliations, and material movements.
Investigate and resolve stock variances and loading discrepancies.
Ensure proper sampling and quality control processes are followed.


Safety, Health & Environmental Compliance


Ensure compliance with all mine health and safety regulations and company safety standards.
Conduct regular safety inspections, toolbox talks, and risk assessments.
Enforce safe work procedures for rail, mobile equipment, and loading operations.
Investigate incidents, near misses, and implement corrective actions.
Ensure environmental compliance regarding dust suppression, spillage control, and housekeeping.


Logistics & Contractor Coordination


Liaise with rail operators, transport contractors, and internal departments.
Coordinate loading schedules and ensure minimal delays or demurrage.
Manage contractor performance and compliance on site.
Maintain effective communication with production, dispatch, and planning teams.


Maintenance Coordination


Coordinate maintenance activities for siding infrastructure and loading equipment.
Report equipment breakdowns and ensure timely repairs.
Minimise operational downtime through preventative maintenance planning.
Monitor equipment availability and operational reliability.


Team Leadership & Supervision


Supervise rail siding operators, loading teams, and contractors.
Manage staffing, shift planning, attendance, and performance.
Train employees on operational procedures and safety requirements.
Foster a high-performance and safety-focused culture.


Reporting & Administration


Prepare daily, weekly, and monthly operational reports.
Monitor KPIs including loading tonnages, turnaround times, delays, safety incidents, and equipment utilisation.
Maintain accurate operational records and documentation.
Analyse operational data and implement continuous improvement initiatives.


Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)


Achievement of daily and monthly loading targets
Rail wagon turnaround times
Minimal train delays and demurrage
Stock accuracy and reconciliation performance
Compliance with safety and environmental standards
Equipment uptime and operational availability
Reduction in operational downtime
Contractor performance management
Incident-free operational performance
Achievement of dispatch schedules


Minimum Requirements
Qualifications:


Diploma or Degree in Logistics, Mining, Engineering, Operations Management, or related field


Experience


Minimum 5 - 8 years' experience in coal logistics, rail siding, mining, or bulk material handling operations
Previous supervisory or management experience essential
Experience working with rail loading operations and export coal logistics preferred


Knowledge & Technical Skills


Coal handling and stockpile management
Rail siding and wagon loading operations
Bulk materials handling systems
Safety and environmental legislation
Operational planning and logistics coordination
Stock reconciliation and reporting
MS Office and ERP systems


Competencies


Strong leadership and people management skills
Operational planning and organisational ability
Problem-solving and decision-making capability
Strong communication and coordination skills
Ability to work under pressure and manage deadlines
High attention to safety and compliance
Analytical and reporting capability


Preferred Experience


Experience in export coal operations
Experience working with Transnet rail operations
Knowledge of wash plant and dispatch operations
Experience in high-volume mining or terminal environments