Tristrim Bitler

A highly experienced Mine Survey Engineer with 25+ years of experience within gold and salt mining operations, with deep expertise in underground surveying, planning and dimensional control across both surface and subsurface environments. Well versed in driving the development of long term mine development strategies with a focus on maintaining robust compliance with strict regulations and H&S standards. First rate technical surveying and project management background, overseeing multi-million pound programmes from feasibility through to delivery stages in order to meet all core aims and objectives.

Technical Services Manager at Winsford Rock Salt Mine (2008 – Present)

Leading survey, ventilation, geology, planning and rock engineering activities in compliance with Mines Regulations 2014 and reporting directly to the Mines Manager.

• Managing ventilation planning activities using Ventsim software to ensure operational compliance of underground airflow systems and maintaining surface and stockpile surveys.
• Driving process flow mapping initiatives to support future mine planning strategies and coordinating survey, geology, rock engineering and ventilation layouts to align with production targets and long-term mine development plans.
• Dust and Diesel particulate sampling program management in accordance with UKAS standards and Mine Regulations
• Managing major mine development programmes, integrating cost control, scheduling and cross-functional collaboration to achieve milestones.
• Overseeing a multi-million pound drift project from feasibility through to execution, ensuring delivery within scope, budget and safety parameters.
• Achieving challenging KPIs through continuous monitoring, reporting and implementation of improvement actions.
• Ensuring compliance with H&S regulations through IOSH standards, promoting a strong safety culture across operations.
• Mentoring and developing Graduate Surveyors, providing technical guidance and supporting career progression.

Surveyor at Babcock Design and Engineering Services (2008 – 2008)

• Conducted precision alignment of ship components using advanced surveying techniques to ensure structural accuracy and engineering compliance.
• Performed 3D scanning and integration activities, supporting dimensional verification and digital modelling.
• Surveyed offshore and nuclear facilities accurately and ensured adherence to strict regulatory standards.
• Liaised with clients to resolve contract related issues, ensuring clear communication and alignment on project deliverables and timelines.
• Contributed to a CVF project and the development of dimensional control processes, improving accuracy and consistency in survey outputs.
• Collaborated with multi-disciplinary teams to coordinate survey activities and ensure alignment with project requirements.
• Applied QA procedures to verify survey accuracy, reduce errors and support successful project delivery outcomes.

Project Surveyor at Axmin Mining Ltd (2007 – 2008)

• Supervised all site survey operations across 1,200 sq. km, ensuring accurate data collection and alignment with exploration objectives.
• Recruited, trained and developed survey personnel to build a competent workforce capable of supporting large scale mining operations.
• Provided survey data to support infrastructure development, enabling effective planning and execution of mining tasks.
• Verified GPS datasets and maintained borehole databases with a focus on ensuring data integrity for exploration.
• Monitored survey progress and performance, identified issues and implemented corrective actions to maintain project timelines.
• Prepared reports and datasets to support senior management decisions and long term exploration planning strategies.

Land Surveyor at N.P.S. North East Property Consultants (2004 – 2007)

• Conducted detailed topographical and internal building surveys and produced data for various design, planning and construction projects.
• Processed survey data using AutoCAD LT and Land Development Desktop, ensuring high quality output for client deliverables.
• Investigated drainage systems and underground utilities which supported infrastructure planning and reduced risks.
• Collaborated with Architects, Engineers and Quantity Surveyors to ensure survey data met project requirements and design specifications.
• Delivered survey reports and drawings, enhanced client understanding and supported informed decision making.

Extruder / Warehouse Operator at Prime Polymers & Compounders Ltd (2003 – 2004)

Quality Inspector at Jaguar Motor Company (2002 – 2003)

Senior Surveyor / Section Surveyor at AngloGold Mining Company (1988 – 2002)

Diploma in Mine Surveying – Technicon RSA