Are you looking to build a career in the mining and explosives industry? The Omnia Group’s BME Division is offering a great opportunity for motivated individuals to join their team as a General Assistant at their Gamsberg operations in the Northern Cape. This permanent position is ideal for individuals with a passion for hands-on work, teamwork, and safety in an industrial or mining environment.
About BME and the Role
BME (Bulk Mining Explosives), a division of the Omnia Group, is one of Africa’s leading suppliers of explosives, blasting solutions, and related services. The company plays a vital role in supporting mining operations by delivering innovative, safe, and efficient blasting technologies.
The General Assistant position is an essential part of BME’s daily operations. This role supports the Truck Operator and Blaster, ensuring that explosive materials are safely transported, prepared, and delivered to the blasting site according to all regulatory and company standards. The position is not only crucial for operational success but also for maintaining a strong culture of safety and compliance.
Position Overview
- Job Title: General Assistant
- Company: BME, a Division of Omnia
- Reference Number: OMN251002-2
- Location: Gamsberg, Northern Cape, South Africa
- Contract Type: Permanent
- Closing Date: 9 October 2025
- Department: Operations – Explosives / Blasting Support
This role is designed to give the successful candidate exposure to all aspects of field operations, including logistics, loading, safety compliance, and team collaboration. The General Assistant contributes to the effectiveness and efficiency of the blasting process, ensuring all duties are executed safely, accurately, and within deadlines.
Purpose of the Job
The main goal of this position is to assist the Truck Operator in collecting products from silos, transporting them to the blasting area, and ensuring that all operations are carried out safely and in compliance with BME, client, and legal standards.
The General Assistant also performs housekeeping duties, maintains cleanliness in the refilling and working areas, and ensures that all equipment is in good working order. Every task must be done responsibly, with an understanding that shortcuts or non-compliance can compromise safety and operational performance.
Minimum Qualifications and Requirements
To qualify for this exciting opportunity, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Education: Grade 12 (Matric) with Mathematics is essential.
- License: A valid Code B or EC driver’s license will be an added advantage.
- Certificates: Having a Competent A and/or Blasting Assistant Certificate (MQA) is preferable.
- Experience:
- At least 1 year of experience in a blasting or mining environment.
- 1 year of blasting assistant experience is highly advantageous.
BME also encourages candidates who are safety-focused, self-motivated, and willing to learn within a fast-paced industrial setting to apply.
Key Responsibilities
As a General Assistant at BME, you will play a hands-on role in supporting the blasting and delivery team. Your daily duties will include:
- Safety and Risk Assessment
- Conduct risk assessments and safe work declarations with the Blaster before entering any workplace, ensuring full compliance with site and client requirements.
- Follow all safety rules and wear personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times.
- Operational Support
- Assist the MMU (Mobile Manufacturing Unit) with charging up blasting holes and refilling the MMU with products.
- Support the Blaster in preparing the blast area, following all legal and company regulations.
- Participate in inspecting and planning the blasting process with the Blaster to identify the target block.
- Blasting Site Preparation
- Help mark off the working area by erecting barricades according to client prescriptions.
- Map and measure holes to ensure they are correctly drilled within required parameters.
- Report deviations immediately and assist in resolving them through communication with relevant personnel.
- Handling Explosives and Accessories
- Collect and organize the correct accessories for the blast (detonators, boosters, etc.).
- Assist with priming blast holes safely under the supervision of the Blaster.
- Carefully handle and place detonators and boosters as per the approved blast plan.
- Housekeeping and Maintenance
- Maintain cleanliness of vehicles, work areas, and the refilling zone.
- Report any repair or maintenance needs immediately to the supervisor.
- Perform any additional duties as assigned, ensuring all are completed on time and to standard.
Competencies and Skills
To succeed as a General Assistant at BME, you must demonstrate strong technical ability, reliability, and teamwork. Key competencies include:
- Business Acumen – Understands operational goals and aligns daily work accordingly.
- Problem-Solving Skills – Able to assess challenges and propose solutions on the spot.
- Attention to Detail – Accuracy is vital when handling explosives and recording data.
- Team Collaboration – Works effectively under supervision and supports team members.
- Safety Awareness – Maintains strict adherence to safety and risk management procedures.
- Communication Skills – Clearly communicates with supervisors, operators, and clients.
- Numerical Ability – Able to perform accurate measurements and basic calculations.
You’ll also need basic computer literacy, particularly in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), to complete reports and documentation.
Why Work for BME?
BME offers more than just a job—it’s a pathway into South Africa’s thriving mining and explosives sector. Working for BME gives you:
- Hands-On Industry Experience: You’ll gain exposure to real blasting operations and logistics.
- Professional Growth: BME is part of the Omnia Group, a large organisation with diverse career opportunities in mining, chemicals, and agriculture.
- Commitment to Safety: BME prioritises the wellbeing of its employees, with strong safety systems and ongoing training.
- Stable Employment: This is a permanent position, giving long-term job security.
- Performance-Driven Culture: Employees are encouraged to take initiative and grow within the company.
Ideal Candidate Profile
The ideal candidate for this position is someone who:
- Enjoys physical, outdoor work in challenging environments.
- Can work well under pressure and follow precise safety protocols.
- Takes pride in doing the job right the first time.
- Has a strong work ethic and reliability.
- Is committed to learning and growing within the mining industry.
If you are a self-motivated individual who values teamwork and discipline, this opportunity can serve as a gateway to a rewarding and stable career with one of South Africa’s most reputable mining services companies.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply before 9 October 2025 by visiting the Omnia Careers Portal and submitting an online application for reference number OMN251002-2.
APPLY HERE
Final Thoughts
The General Assistant – BME Gamsberg position is an excellent entry-level opportunity for anyone looking to enter the mining and explosives sector. With strong mentorship, structured operations, and exposure to technical work, this role provides a platform to learn, grow, and contribute to one of South Africa’s key industries.
If you’re ready to work hard, follow safety standards, and develop a meaningful career, this opportunity could be the start of something great. Apply today, and take your first step toward a future with BME and the Omnia Group.