Mine Safety Officer Job Vacancy in Mekelle, Ethiopia – Mining & Metals

Job Description

Position: Mine Safety Officer

Company: Rio Tinto

Location: Mekelle, Ethiopia

Experience: 5+ years in mine safety, occupational health, or related field

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Health and Safety, Mining Engineering, or related discipline

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Mining & Metals

Department: Safety & Compliance

Salary: SSP 150,000 – 250,000 per month

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Rio Tinto is a leading global mining group that discovers, extracts and processes the Earth’s mineral resources. With a strong commitment to sustainable development, the company operates across continents, delivering value to shareholders while investing in local communities. In Ethiopia, Rio Tinto is expanding its portfolio to include strategic mineral projects that support national economic growth and job creation. This expansion creates a vibrant environment for professionals seeking Ethiopia Jobs that offer both challenge and impact. As a responsible employer, Rio Tinto prioritizes safety, diversity, and continuous improvement, making it an ideal place for career advancement.

Job Overview

The Mine Safety Officer will be responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring safety protocols at Rio Tinto’s emerging mining site in Mekelle. This role ensures compliance with local regulations, international best practices, and company standards to protect workers, equipment, and the environment. The successful candidate will collaborate with engineering, operations, and environmental teams to embed a safety‑first culture throughout the project lifecycle. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a high‑visibility project while advancing your career in a dynamic, fast‑growing sector. For more information about Rio Tinto’s presence in Ethiopia, visit https://ethiopiajobssearch.com/.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, review, and enforce comprehensive safety policies and procedures specific to mining operations.
• Conduct regular site inspections, hazard assessments, and risk analyses to identify potential safety issues.
• Lead incident investigations, root‑cause analyses, and corrective action implementation.
• Provide safety training and orientation for all site personnel, including contractors and subcontractors.
• Maintain accurate safety records, reports, and documentation in compliance with Ethiopian regulations and corporate standards.
• Collaborate with engineering and operations teams to integrate safety considerations into project planning and execution.
• Monitor and ensure the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and emergency response equipment.
• Participate in emergency drills and coordinate with local emergency services.

Required Skills

• In‑depth knowledge of mining safety regulations, standards (e.g., MSHA, ISO 45001) and best practices.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities with a proactive approach to risk mitigation.
• Excellent communication skills for delivering training and reporting to senior management.
• Ability to work effectively in multicultural teams and adapt to remote field conditions.
• Proficiency in safety management software and data analysis tools.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Health and Safety, Mining Engineering, Environmental Science, or a related field is required. Professional certifications such as CSP (Certified Safety Professional) or NEBOSH are highly desirable and will be considered an advantage.

Experience

Applicants must have a minimum of five years of hands‑on experience in mine safety or occupational health within a mining or heavy‑industry environment. Experience with large‑scale projects, contractor management, and regulatory compliance in Ethiopia or similar jurisdictions is preferred.

Salary

The position offers a competitive salary range of SSP 150,000 to 250,000 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Additional performance‑based incentives may be provided.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health and dental insurance.
• Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
• Paid annual leave and sick leave.
• Relocation assistance for candidates moving to Mekelle.
• Professional development and certification support.

Training

• On‑boarding safety induction program tailored to Rio Tinto’s operational standards.
• Continuous safety leadership workshops and seminars.
• Access to online learning platforms for advanced safety certifications.

Working Environment

The role is based at a developing mine site in Mekelle, offering a blend of field work and office‑based planning. Candidates will experience a collaborative culture that values safety, innovation, and respect for local communities. The site operates in a high‑altitude environment with modern facilities, and the company provides necessary accommodations and transport.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining relevant experience through the Rio Tinto careers portal. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted applicants will be contacted for interviews. Please ensure all documents are in PDF format.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Rio Tinto is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, or background. We encourage applications from qualified individuals who are passionate about safety and sustainability in the mining sector.