Senior Geotechnical Engineer

Job Description

The Geotechnical Engineer is responsible for providing leadership and geotechnical engineering technical support to the Mining and Technical Services departments to ensure that the mine functions safely and effectively.  To maintain and support procedures and work practices aimed to create a safe working environment.  

Job Responsibilities

1.    Develop geotechnical design criteria to support safe & optimal mine operations.
2.    Plan and manage the installation of the mine-wide geotechnical monitoring systems. 
3.    Facilitate the collection, analysis, and interpretation of geotechnical data.  This includes back analysis of instabilities noted in highwalls. 
4.    Assist with continuous improvements in drilling and blast designs while ensuring they comply with mining regulations and site standards as they relate to Geotechnical Wall Control blasting.
5.    Advise planning & operations personnel on geotechnical issues in the pit.
6.    Coordinate with the geotechnical consultants to ensure maximum production from the deposit as it relates to Geotechnical Wall Control. 
7.    Ensure that all reporting requirements and licensing conditions by regulatory bodies are met.
8.    Maintain and update the Ground Control Management plan.
9.    Performs pit inspections and develops a relationship with mine ops supervisors to complete work in the production environment. 
10.    Maintain Hazard Maps.
11.    Perform Highwall mapping, cell mapping, and mining compliance with design. 
12.    Effectively communicate geotechnical outcomes.
13.    Provide comprehensive and timely contributions to the daily and weekly production meetings.
14.    Must be able to handle physical demands of installing instrumentation.  This may include packing 50 pounds across uneven surfaces. 
15.    Facilitating Critical Risk Management and analysis of CRM data to improve site safety.
16.    Train and mentor staff in all aspects of geotechnical engineering.
17.    Compliance with all company policies and procedures including, but not limited to safety, environmental, confidentiality, and code of conduct.
18.    Perform on call functions in off hours in rotation with rest of geotechnical group. 
19.    Perform other related functions as assigned by supervisor
 

Education and Experience

1.    Bachelor’s degree in geological engineering, geology, mining or civil engineering is required.
2.    A post graduate Degree in Engineering or Geology is preferred
3.    3-5 years Geotechnical Engineering experience is required.
4.    Mining experience which includes familiarity with geotechnical design and rock characterization.
5.    Working knowledge of Vulcan preferable and Rocscience software is required.
6.    Understanding of rock mass strength, structural characterization and slope stability controls.
7.    Capable of identifying and proactively predicting high wall failure mechanisms. 
8.    General understanding of mining operations.
9.    Working knowledge and skill with computers utilizing word processing, spreadsheet, database, and presentation software. 
10.    Strong verbal, written, and analytical skills and the ability to interact effectively with all levels of employees and management.
11.    Effective decision making and problem solving skills.
12.    Ability to work independently and also as a member of the Technical Services team. 
13.    Demonstrates strong administrative, organizational, and technical writing skills.
14.    Hydrology experience is desirable but not mandatory.
15.    Must be presently authorized to work in the United States on a full time basis. 
16.    Requires valid driver’s license.
 

Skills

• Strong Knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, database and AutoCAD software

Reporting Relationships

• May direct the work of project teams and/or task forces and provide training and guidance to entry level professionals
• Typically reports to a Chief Engineer / Engineering Manager

Career Framework and Level

Legislative Requirements