How to Apply for KKMJV TBM Operator Jobs
Applications must be accompanied by:
- Application letter detailing the position being applied for.
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Certified copies of educational certificates.
- Three work-related referees with contact details.
Candidates should ensure that all required documents are included before sending the application.
Application Format
KKMJV requires applications to be submitted in:
Read-only PDF format
Check your application carefully before emailing it.
Application Email
Send your completed application to:
recruitment@kkm-jv.co.ls
Your application letter must clearly state that you are applying for the:
TBM Operator
A suitable email subject could be:
Application – TBM Operator
This is a suggested subject line for clarity; the supplied vacancy does not prescribe a specific email subject.
Closing Date
Sunday, 20 September 2026 at 16:00 hours
Applications should be submitted before the closing time.
Shortlisting Information
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
KKMJV advises that if you do not receive a response within 14 days after the closing date, you should consider your application unsuccessful.
CV Tips for TBM Operator Applicants
1. Put Your TBM Experience at the Top of Your CV
This vacancy requires a very specific level of experience.
Your professional profile could immediately state:
- Total years as a TBM Operator
- Years operating rock TBMs
- Major tunnel projects
- Types of TBMs operated
This allows recruiters to determine quickly whether you meet the minimum requirements.
2. Clearly Show Your 10 Years as a TBM Operator
Don’t simply state:
“Extensive tunnelling experience.”
KKMJV specifically requires 10 years as a TBM Operator.
Provide employment dates that make this experience verifiable.
3. Clearly Identify Your Rock TBM Experience
The employer specifically requires at least 5 years as a rock TBM Operator.
For example:
Rock TBM Operator – [Company]
Project: [Project Name]
Period: [Month/Year – Month/Year]
Then explain your genuine responsibilities.
4. List Major Tunnel Projects
Consider adding a dedicated section such as:
Major TBM/Tunnelling Projects
For each project, provide information such as:
Project: [Project Name]
Country: [Country]
Employer: [Company]
Position: TBM Operator
TBM Type: [If known]
Period: [Dates]
5. Mention the TBMs You Have Actually Operated
If applicable, identify:
- TBM type
- Manufacturer/model
- Machine diameter
- Ground/rock conditions
- Type of tunnel
Only provide technical information you can genuinely verify.
6. Highlight Safety Experience
TBM operation involves working with large and complex machinery in underground environments.
Where applicable, highlight genuine experience with:
- Pre-start inspections
- Risk assessments
- PPE
- Toolbox talks
- Emergency procedures
- Equipment isolation
- Underground safety requirements
7. Highlight Your Ability to Identify Machine Problems
If you have experience recognising abnormal:
- Noise
- Vibration
- Pressure
- Temperature
- Machine performance
- Operating parameters
mention this where relevant.
Do not claim mechanical or electrical repair experience unless you actually performed those duties.
8. Include Three Strong Referees
KKMJV requires three work-related referees with contact details.
Suitable referees could include former:
- Tunnel Superintendents
- TBM Supervisors
- Shift Supervisors
- Construction Managers
- Project Managers
Choose people who can genuinely verify your TBM operating experience.
Example CV Profile
“Experienced TBM Operator with more than 10 years of practical Tunnel Boring Machine operating experience, including over five years operating rock TBMs on underground tunnel construction projects. Experienced in supporting safe and efficient tunnel excavation, monitoring machine operation and working effectively with tunnelling, maintenance and supervisory teams. Safety-conscious and able to communicate fluently in English.”
Only use or adapt this profile if it accurately reflects your experience.
Possible KKMJV TBM Operator Interview Questions
- Tell us about your experience as a TBM Operator.
- How many years have you worked as a TBM Operator?
- How many years have you worked specifically as a rock TBM Operator?
- Which major tunnel projects have you worked on?
- What types of TBMs have you operated?
- Describe your experience operating TBMs in hard rock conditions.
- What checks do you perform before starting a TBM?
- What operating parameters do you normally monitor?
- How do you recognise that a TBM may be developing a mechanical problem?
- What would you do if you noticed unusual vibration during operation?
- What would you do if TBM operating parameters suddenly changed?
- How do geological conditions affect TBM operation?
- How do you maintain safe and controlled excavation?
- What are the main hazards associated with TBM operation?
- How do you ensure safe operation around underground personnel?
- What information should be communicated during a shift handover?
- How do you work with TBM mechanics?
- How do you work with TBM electricians?
- How do you communicate operational problems to the Tunnel Superintendent?
- What would you do during an unexpected TBM shutdown?
- How do you respond to equipment alarms?
- Tell us about a difficult TBM operating situation you have experienced.
- How did you resolve or manage that situation?
- How do you maintain concentration during long underground shifts?
- How do you balance production targets with safe operating practices?
- What role does teamwork play in successful TBM operations?
- How do you maintain accurate operational records?
- What do you know about the Lesotho Highlands Water Project Phase II?
- What interests you about working on the Polihali Transfer Tunnel?
- Why should KKMJV select you as one of its TBM Operators?
Important Vacancy Summary
Employer: Kopano Ke Matla Joint Venture (KKMJV)
Position: TBM Operator X3
Number of Vacancies: 3
Project: Lesotho Highlands Water Project – Phase II
Works: Construction of the 38 km Polihali Transfer Tunnel
Contract: LHDA C4021
Eligible Applicants: Basotho and South African nationals
Language: Must read, write and speak English fluently
TBM Operator Experience: Minimum 10 years
Rock TBM Operator Experience: At least 5 years
Specific Academic Qualification: Not stated in the supplied advertisement
Application Documents: Application Letter + Detailed CV + Certified Educational Certificates + 3 Work-Related Referees
Application Format: Read-only PDF
Application Email: recruitment@kkm-jv.co.ls
Closing Date: Sunday, 20 September 2026 at 16:00 hours