Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Websites
Certification
Additional Information
Licenses & certifications
Languages
Timeline
Generic
Coenraad Slabbert

Coenraad Slabbert

Somerset West

Summary

Accomplished Mechanical Engineer with +8 years extensive experience in design, MEP systems, construction and project management, civil works, and commissioning across large-scale mining and infrastructure projects in Africa. Demonstrated success in leading multidisciplinary teams and delivering complex projects in challenging expatriate environments. Expertise includes HVAC design, SMPP installations, wet and dry process plants, piping systems, and power generation. Proficient in engineering software, project scheduling, and technical documentation. Recognized for a strong commitment to safety, quality, and compliance, with a proven ability to thrive in multicultural and dynamic settings.

Overview

9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Mechanical Commissioning Specialist

First Quantum Minerals
07.2025 - Current

Promoted form my previous role to assist in the commissioning and optimization of critical mechanical systems across the major mining project. Key responsibilities included:

  • Executed mechanical commissioning procedures for complex systems in line with industry standards.
  • Directed commissioning of mechanical equipment, including conveyors, pumps, blowers, agitators, hoppers, feeders, screens, and bulk handling systems, achieving on-time project milestones with multi cultural team.
  • Installed, commissioned, and tested pneumatic, electric, and manual valve systems, fire deluge systems, and pipelines, ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards.
  • Commissioned a ball slaking lime mill and associated reagent systems (e.g., Lime, NaSH) with zero safety incidents.
  • Conducted system sequencing, E&I fault finding, troubleshooting, and process optimization, improving equipment reliability and reducing downtime.
  • Developed and maintained comprehensive commissioning documentation, operational procedures, and system specifications.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to resolve technical issues, implement improvements, and enhance overall plant performance.

Mechanical Engineer

First Quantum Minerals
05.2025 - 07.2025

Served as SMP QA/QC and Commissioning Mechanical Engineer on the $1.25B Kansanshi Copper Plant Expansion Project.

  • Audited and verified over 250 equipment QA/QC test sheets from construction through to hot commissioning, ensuring compliance with project specifications.
  • Implemented and revised QA plans in collaboration with construction teams.
  • Conducted a multitude of inspections, system walkdown, and compiled new test sheets for equipment/system handover.
  • Supported QA/QC efforts across piping, instrumentation, and electrical systems, ensuring cross-disciplinary compliance.
  • Provided technical mentorship and engineering support to a team of 5 inspectors and 4 graduate engineers.
  • Ensured proper closeout, inspection record-keeping, and handover documentation for mechanical systems.
  • Tracked project milestones and progress using MS Project and Power BI dashboards.
  • Collaborated with multicultural teams in a high-pressure, fast-paced project environment.
  • Reviewed OEM and Design Drawings to ensure proper QA/QC and commissioning allocation.
  • Led safety audits and compliance checks, promoting a culture of safety in engineering practices.
  • Developed and implemented testing protocols to streamline QA processes and improve defect detection rates.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment between quality metrics and production goals.
  • Led quality assurance initiatives to enhance product reliability and compliance with industry standards.

Assistant Site Manager

ORECON MINING INFRASTRUCTURE
10.2024 - 05.2025
  • Appointed to oversee civil works and site operations for a 100 MW solar energy infrastructure project.
  • Delivered earthworks, stormwater drainage, PST foundations, and support buildings in line with project specifications.
  • Managed project scheduling, quality control, and engineering compliance.
  • Coordinated equipment and labour onboarding, subcontractor activities, and daily site operations.
  • Administered claims, resolved non-conformance reports (NCRs), and supported dispute resolution.
  • Maintained daily diaries, compiled weekly progress reports, and communicated updates to stakeholders.
  • Appointed as 2.6.1 Legal Responsible Person under MHSA, ensuring full HSE and regulatory compliance.
  • Created baseline risk assessments and method statements for project tasks.
  • Reviewed IFC Drawings and BOQ Allocation.

Assistant Construction Manager / Snr Site Engineer

Zenio Limited
03.2023 - 08.2024

Promoted during execution, I assumed a dual role managing multidisciplinary construction teams while continuing technical oversight. I led site operations, coordinated high-risk activities, and ensured HSE compliance. I developed and maintained the overall construction schedule using MS Project, conducted weekly planning meetings, and issued two-week look-ahead schedules. I also contributed to monthly dashboards and recovery plans.

Major Equipment & Scope Summary:

SMPP Installations:
• 1 x Citic 7.2m SAG Mill
• 2 x Classification Screens
• 1 x Citic Gyratory Crusher
• 1 x Citic Vertical Regrind Mill
• 4 x FLSmidth Apron Feeders
• 1.4km Nepean Overland Conveyors

Power Plant Installations:
• 8 x 1.2MW Gensets
• 8 x Air Coolers
• 3 x Bulk Fuel Tanks

• Led site teams including supervisors, QA/QC, planning, safety, contracts, and surveyors
• Oversaw execution of Earthworks, Civil, SMPP, and E&I scopes with full QA/QC compliance
• Managed logistics and material deliveries in a remote setting
• Supported commissioning readiness, system walkdowns, and turnover documentation
• Maintained strong client/contractor relationships and resolved interface issues

  • Led site operations, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and quality standards.
  • Supervised construction teams, fostering collaboration and enhancing productivity on-site.
  • Conducted site inspections, identifying issues and recommending solutions for timely resolutions.
  • Mentored junior engineers, providing guidance on best practices and technical skills development.
  • Evaluated subcontractor performance, ensuring adherence to contractual obligations and quality requirements.
  • Facilitated smooth handovers by thoroughly documenting all relevant information related to completed projects.
  • Coordinated project schedules, ensuring timely completion of construction milestones.
  • Assisted in managing subcontractor performance and compliance with safety standards.
  • Facilitated team meetings, promoting collaboration between project teams and clients.
  • Monitored site activities, identifying potential issues and implementing corrective actions.
  • Implemented quality control processes to ensure adherence to specifications and regulations.
  • Evaluated project progress against timelines, recommending adjustments to optimize efficiency.
  • Mentored junior staff on best practices in construction management and site safety protocols.
  • Managed project documentation, maintaining accurate records for audits and future reference.
  • Played an integral role in expediting permit approvals through effective communication with regulatory agencies.
  • Participated in pre-construction meetings with clients, discussing their expectations and addressing concerns proactively.
  • Developed strong relationships with clients by delivering excellent customer service during construction projects.
  • Efficiently managed material procurement processes to prevent delays in the project''s progress.
  • Mitigated risks by developing comprehensive contingency plans for potential obstacles encountered during construction projects.
  • Assisted in budget management for projects, resulting in cost savings and timely completion.

Senior Site Engineer

Zenio Limited
08.2022 - 03.2023
  • Appointed as Senior Site Engineer for the fast-tracked M3.75 iron ore plant expansion, I was responsible for technical supervision and execution of engineering works across Earthworks, Civil, SMPP, and E&I disciplines. Operating in a remote region with limited infrastructure, I ensured compliance with international standards (BS, ISO, SABS), resolved design queries, and supported commissioning. I worked closely with the construction management team to maintain quality, safety, and schedule adherence.
    Key Responsibilities:

    Supervised construction of major civil structures:

    • SAG Mill Foundation (980m³), 11m High Plinths
    • Vertical Mill Foundation (430m³), Crusher Raft (370m³), 20m High Support Platform
    • 25m High Reinforced Earth Wall, 65m Reclaim Tunnel, 1200m³ Roof Slab
    • 1500m Conveyor Plinths, Transfer Towers, High-Rise Trestles
    • Transformer Bays, Diesel Tank Foundations, 300m Cable Trenches, Earthing Mats

    Oversaw installation of:

    • 1 x Citic SAG Mill, 2 x Classification Screens
    • 1 x Citic Gyratory Crusher, 1 x Regrind Mill
    • 4 x FLSmidth Apron Feeders, 1.4km Nepean Overland Conveyors

    • Managed installation of 8 x 1.2MW Gensets, 8 x Air Coolers, 3 x Bulk Fuel Tanks
    • Supported cold and hot commissioning, punch listing, and system handover
    • Developed discipline-specific schedules and reports using MS Project
    • Maintained daily site diaries and contributed to weekly progress updates
    • Implemented QA/QC procedures and ensured adherence to project specifications
    • Coordinated lifting operations, confined space work, and high-risk activities
    • Participated in constructability reviews, risk assessments, and engineering walkdowns
    • Ensured readiness for commissioning through system turnover documentation
  • Developed project schedules, coordinating resources to meet critical deadlines effectively.
  • Collaborated with architects and contractors to ensure alignment with project specifications and goals.
  • Implemented process improvements that streamlined workflows and reduced material waste.
  • Monitored project progress closely, identifying potential issues early on and taking corrective action as needed to keep projects on track.
  • Reduced construction costs through diligent evaluation of materials and suppliers, ensuring best value without compromising quality.
  • Resolved conflicts among team members diplomatically, promoting a harmonious work environment conducive to productivity.
  • Delivered high-quality results by enforcing strict adherence to design specifications, building codes, and industry standards.
  • Ensured compliance with environmental regulations by incorporating sustainable practices into daily operations whenever possible.
  • Established strong working relationships with clients, suppliers, and subcontractors to create a reliable network of resources for future projects.
  • Mentored junior engineers to help them grow professionally while enhancing their skills in site engineering practices.

Senior Site Engineer

ORECON MINING INFRASTRUCTURE
01.2021 - 08.2022
  • Site engineer for the development of the R7b Kapstevel South Project for Anglo-American Kumba Iron ore.
  • Managing five supervisors with teams of 15 people that specializes in concrete, earthworks, piping and steel modifications.
  • Quality control and management
  • Design Reviews
  • Production and deadlines
  • Safety according to MHSA
  • Completed baseline risk assessments and high-risk work permits.
  • Project procurement
  • Lifting operations
  • Costing
  • Client Relations with Anglo America and relevant contractors
  • Claims Certification
  • Project management and planning

Mechanical Design Engineer

Quantum Cooling Solutions
08.2017 - 02.2022
  • Worked part time as a mechanical design engineer while I was studying, working on multiple projects. This included function of containerized storage systems to industrial cold storage systems.
  • Assisted end-to-end mechanical design of industrial HVAC systems, including cold storage, food processing, and logistics facilities.
  • Conducted thermal load calculations, duct and pipe sizing, equipment selection, and layout planning.
  • Performed CFD analysis and thermal simulations to optimize airflow, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality.
  • Developed complete engineering packages using SolidWorks, Siemens NX, and AutoCAD, including 3D models, isometric drawings, and fabrication-ready documentation.
  • Integrated complex refrigeration systems with evaporators, condensers, compressors, and electronic control units.
  • Produced detailed technical documentation, including P&IDs, BOMs, installation manuals, and maintenance procedures.
  • Collaborated closely with contractors, fabricators, and clients to deliver cost-effective and performance-optimized HVAC solutions compliant with ASHRAE, SANS, and ISO standards.

Engineering Intern

ORECON CIVIL
11.2018 - 02.2019
  • A special project to design, fabricate, implement and test a new overhead storm water system in a fully functional warehouse for Global Roofing Solutions.
  • Design, fabricate, implement and test a new overhead storm water system in a fully functional warehouse for Global Roofing Solutions.
  • Conduct installation 24/7 while the factory was in full production.
  • Set up an on-site fabrication workshop to ensure the strict deadline was met.

Engineering Intern

ORECON CIVIL
11.2017 - 02.2018
  • Costing analysis and research for tenders for geotechnical laboratory for Assmang
  • Costing analysis and research for tenders for high-voltage substation for Eskom
  • Costing analysis and research for tenders for salt processing plant

Materials Warehouse Supervisor

Karsten UK Limited
12.2016 - 02.2017
  • Managed the materials warehouse for an industrial table grape farm.

Education

Bachelor of Engineering - BE - Mechanical Engineering

North-West University / Noordwes-Universiteit
01.2020

High School Diploma - STEM

Upington High School
12.2012

Post-Baccalaureate Diploma - Construction Management

University Of Cape Town
Cape Town, South Africa
12-2024

Skills

  • Quality Systems
  • Expat
  • Bilingual
  • Engineering Management
  • QAQC
  • Microsoft Power BI
  • HVAC
  • CAD
  • SolidWorks
  • HSE Management Systems
  • Scuba Diving
  • Construction Engineering
  • On Site
  • Project Estimation
  • Claims Management
  • Payments
  • Project Planning
  • Microsoft Project
  • Construction Drawings
  • ISO
  • Site Engineering
  • Drone Surveys
  • Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
  • Design
  • Project Engineering
  • R&D Engineering
  • Construction Management
  • Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC)
  • Construction
  • Project closeout
  • Mechanical systems
  • Client communication
  • Functional testing
  • System troubleshooting
  • Documentation review
  • Scheduling management
  • Piping systems
  • Equipment testing
  • Control systems
  • Reliability engineering
  • Instrumentation calibration
  • HVAC systems
  • Fire protection systems
  • Commissioning procedures
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Problem-solving
  • Critical thinking

Certification

  • Construction Management - University of Cape Town
  • Legal Liability MHSA & OHSA - X-FACTOR SAFETY CONSULTANTS
  • Advanced Open Water Scuba Diver - PADI
  • Best Safety Team - Anglo American
  • Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering - North-West University / Noordwes-Universiteit
  • Solidworks - Mechanical Design - DassaultSystems
  • Legal Liability - Bsafc Africa
  • Snake Handler - African Reptiles and Venom
  • Basic Fire Fighting - AAH Skills & Development
  • First Aid - AAH Skills & Development

Additional Information

  • Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification – In Progress
    Enrolled in PMP preparation course; expected completion within 3 months.
    Will enhance project planning, risk management, and cost control expertise for large-scale mining and construction projects.
  • SAP ERP Training – In Progress
    Currently learning SAP modules relevant to project procurement, asset management, and inventory tracking.
    Expected completion within 6 months, to support efficient management of project resources and reporting.
  • ISO Standards Training – In Progress
    Pursuing ISO 9001 (Quality Management) and ISO 14001 (Environmental Management) certifications.
    Expected completion within 4 months, aimed at ensuring adherence to international standards in engineering and construction projects.

Licenses & certifications

  • Construction Management – University of Cape Town (2025) | Credential ID: 98179823
    Applied project planning, scheduling, and monitoring for mining and renewable energy projects, including Kansanshi S3 Expansion and Harmony Gold Solar Projects.
  • Legal Liability (MHSA & OHSA) – X-Factor Safety Consultants (2025–2026) | Credential ID: XFS/MHS/2025/E001
    Appointed 2.6.1 Legal Responsible Person at Harmony Gold Solar Project; ensured full HSE and regulatory compliance on-site.
  • SolidWorks Mechanical Design – Dassault Systèmes (2013) | Credential ID: C-MUK693CH98
    Designed mechanical systems for industrial HVAC and cold storage solutions at Quantum Cooling Solutions; developed 3D models, fabrication-ready drawings, and simulation studies.
  • Legal Liability – Bsafe Africa (2021–2024) | Credential ID: 202100295
    Ensured contractor and subcontractor compliance with MHSA and OHSA during Marampa and Kapstevel Projects.
  • Snake Handler – African Reptiles & Venom (2021–2023) | Credential ID: 7026
    Conducted site risk assessments safely in remote mining areas with venomous wildlife.
  • Fire Fighting & First Aid – AAH Skills Development (2021–2023) | Credential ID: 100137021 / 100136890
    Managed on-site emergency response preparedness, including drills and first aid readiness during construction and commissioning phases.
  • Advanced Open Water Scuba Diver – PADI (2024) | Credential ID: 2412UU9581

Languages

Afrikaans
Native or Bilingual
English
Native or Bilingual
Spanish
Elementary

Timeline

Mechanical Commissioning Specialist

First Quantum Minerals
07.2025 - Current

Mechanical Engineer

First Quantum Minerals
05.2025 - 07.2025

Assistant Site Manager

ORECON MINING INFRASTRUCTURE
10.2024 - 05.2025

Assistant Construction Manager / Snr Site Engineer

Zenio Limited
03.2023 - 08.2024

Senior Site Engineer

Zenio Limited
08.2022 - 03.2023

Senior Site Engineer

ORECON MINING INFRASTRUCTURE
01.2021 - 08.2022

Engineering Intern

ORECON CIVIL
11.2018 - 02.2019

Engineering Intern

ORECON CIVIL
11.2017 - 02.2018

Mechanical Design Engineer

Quantum Cooling Solutions
08.2017 - 02.2022

Materials Warehouse Supervisor

Karsten UK Limited
12.2016 - 02.2017

High School Diploma - STEM

Upington High School

Bachelor of Engineering - BE - Mechanical Engineering

North-West University / Noordwes-Universiteit

Post-Baccalaureate Diploma - Construction Management

University Of Cape Town
Coenraad Slabbert