Job Description

I'm working on behalf of a leading global mining organisation seeking an experienced Senior Tailings & Geotechnical Engineer to provide leadership and technical expertise across multiple complex sites. This hybrid role is based in Phoenix, Arizona, with flexible in-person requirements and occasional international travel.

The position plays a vital role in the management of tailings storage facilities (TSFs), crushed leach (CL) pads, and water dams (WD), ensuring the safe, efficient, and sustainable operation of critical geotechnical infrastructure. You will lead cross-functional teams, oversee engineering design and performance, and contribute to strategic planning and risk management.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as Responsible Tailings Facility Engineer (RTFE) for assigned complex TSF(s), accountable for facility integrity, risk management, and regulatory compliance.
• Lead and develop a team of engineers supporting tailings, leach, and water facility management.
• Conduct technical reviews of geotechnical design and construction plans for TSFs, CL pads, WDs, levees, and civil infrastructure.
• Interface with internal stakeholders, including engineering, operations, environmental, and regulatory teams.
• Develop and implement monitoring systems, manage change control processes, and communicate performance results to key stakeholders.
• Manage and oversee engineering projects, ensuring optimisation of current and future facilities.
• Act as technical advisor on complex geotechnical projects across the business.
• Stay abreast of industry best practices, new technologies, and innovations in geotechnical engineering.
• Support strategic planning, budgeting, and governance efforts for assigned project areas.
• Represent the organisation on internal steering committees and cross-functional task forces.

Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• 8-10+ years’ experience in geotechnical engineering, including lead or supervisory responsibilities.
• Registered Professional Engineer (PE or equivalent).
• Strong experience in tailings storage facilities, leach pads, water dams, process water balance, or slurry transport.
• Excellent leadership, mentoring, and communication skills.
• Strong project management capabilities, with proven experience managing budgets, schedules, and consultants.
• Proficient in technical software and MS Office applications.
• Demonstrated ability to work proactively and collaboratively across disciplines.
• Strong understanding of regulatory frameworks and best practices related to geotechnical infrastructure.

Preferred

• Master’s degree in Geotechnical Engineering.
• Advanced expertise in tailings, crushed leach, and/or water dam operations, design, and management.
• Experience with large-scale mining operations (preferably metal mining).
• Fluency in Spanish or Bahasa Indonesian is an asset.
• Experience in geotechnical data analysis, soil characterisation, and modelling.
• Familiarity with software such as AutoCAD, geotechnical analysis programs, and project management tools.
• Willingness and ability to travel internationally (approximately five weeks per quarter).

Location & Work Environment

Hybrid role based in Phoenix, AZ, with flexibility to work both remotely and on-site as required. The company’s collaborative workspace is designed to promote innovation and cross-team collaboration, with modern amenities to support virtual and in-person meetings.

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