Graduate Programme – First Quantum Minerals

About the Company

First Quantum Minerals (FQM) is a global mining company with operations across several countries, including Zambia. In Zambia, FQM operates major mining operations and provides opportunities for graduates and young professionals to develop practical skills within a large-scale mining environment.

FQM is seeking a graduate to join its operations under a structured development programme designed to provide practical exposure, professional development and experience in mining operations.

About the Role

The Graduate Intern will participate in a structured graduate development programme, gaining practical exposure to mining operations while working alongside experienced professionals.

The role is intended to provide opportunities to apply academic knowledge to practical, production-oriented challenges and develop skills required for a career in the mining industry.

The successful candidate will be expected to work collaboratively with different teams, contribute to projects and support operational improvements.

Purpose

The Graduate Participant will undergo a structured development program aimed at equipping them with the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to excel in their chosen field. This role provides hands-on training, mentorship, and exposure to various aspects of the business operations at FQM 'Kansanshi Mining Plc (KMP)

Key Responsibilities

Engineering & Operational Support

Support engineering and operational teams in assigned projects and activities.

Participate in structured graduate development and learning activities.

Conduct research, data analysis and problem-solving activities relevant to mining operations.

Support project planning, execution and reporting.

Collaborate with senior staff and cross-functional teams to improve operational efficiency.

Frame and communicate solutions to practical operational problems.

Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and identify opportunities to improve processes.

Apply academic and technical knowledge to real-world mining challenges.

Qualifications

Applicants must hold a Bachelor's Degree in one of the following relevant fields:

• Mining Engineering

• Metallurgy

• Chemical Engineering

• Civil Engineering

• Control Systems Engineering

• Electrical Engineering

• Electrical/Instrumentation Engineering

• Mechanical Engineering

• Human Resource or related field

• Supply Chain Management or related field

• Environmental and Natural Resource Management

Experience

• No prior experience is required.

• Internship or practical experience in mining operations will be an advantage.

• Ability to multitask and work effectively under pressure and as part of a team.

• Good verbal and written communication skills.

• Computer literacy, particularly Microsoft Office Suite.

• Ability to use and work with Artificial Intelligence tools.

• Skills in managing projects, including planning, execution and reporting.

• Ability to tackle practical, production-oriented problems through mini-projects.

Behavioural Traits

The successful candidate should demonstrate FQM's expected behavioural attributes:

Bolder

Flexible, versatile and prepared to take on challenges as required.

Smarter

Always looking for efficiencies and better ways of working.

Driven

Sets high standards, remains motivated and demonstrates determination.

Together

Communicates effectively with peers and understands and respects different views.

Operational Requirements

Applicants should have:

• Understanding of mining legislation, Standard Operating Procedures and operational procedures.

• Knowledge of and adherence to safety protocols and risk-assessment methodologies.

• Ability to work effectively in a diverse, cross-cultural environment while promoting inclusive and respectful collaboration.

• Ability to work in remote locations and under diverse weather conditions.

• Physical ability to access various areas of mining operations when required.

• Ability to work at a remote mining site in Zambia, demonstrating resilience and adaptability to operational challenges.

• Willingness and ability to travel across First Quantum Minerals sites, both locally and internationally, where required by the business.

Work Environment

The successful candidate should be prepared to work within a large-scale mining environment, including remote mining operations.

The position may involve exposure to different operational areas, field activities and challenging working conditions. Flexibility, resilience, safety awareness and the ability to work effectively with multidisciplinary and multicultural teams are essential.

Important: Applicants should ensure that they meet the stated academic and operational requirements before applying. Qualifications and supporting documents may be required during the recruitment process.

The position is part of the Graduates Job Family Group and is intended for candidates who are looking to develop their careers through practical exposure and structured professional development.

Job Summary

Employer: First Quantum Minerals (FQM)

Position: Graduate Intern Location: Kansanshi Mining Plc, Solwezi, Zambia

Employment Type: Fixed-Term Contract

Requisition number: JR18321

Job Family: Graduates Job Family Group

Grade: I4

Direct reports: None     

Position reports to: Rotation Based

Minimum Qualification: Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field

Experience: No prior experience required

Mining Experience: Internship/practical mining experience is an advantage Industry: Mining

Closing Date: 23 August 2026

Suitable for Mechanical Engineering Graduates

This opportunity is particularly relevant to graduates with backgrounds in Mechanical Engineering, as Mechanical Engineering is explicitly listed among the accepted degree disciplines. It is also suitable for graduates from several other engineering, environmental, mining, metallurgy, HR and supply-chain disciplines.