Chief Engineer

Job Summary

Lead the open‑pit mine engineering function by executing strategy, driving technical excellence, and ensuring alignment with Kinross’ overall business objectives. Provide leadership that strengthens engineering capability, optimizes operational performance, and enhances stakeholder and employee satisfaction. Ensure all engineering activities reflect Kinross’ values and support safe, efficient, and profitable open‑pit operations.
 

Essential Functions

1.    Strategic & Technical Leadership
•    Develop and establish standards for open‑pit mine design and mine planning aligning with corporate standards.
•    Lead the execution of short‑, medium‑, and long‑range mine plans, ensuring technical accuracy and operational feasibility.
•    Interface with Operations, Geology, Geotechnical, Projects, and external consultants to ensure engineering deliverables support site strategy. 
•    Provide expert technical support to operations, technical services, and project teams.
2.    Team & Capability Development
•    Build and develop a high‑performing mine engineering team; identify succession needs and develop high‑potential talent. 
•    Establish systems and KPIs to measure team performance and ensure achievement of targets.
•    Coach, mentor, and guide engineers in mine planning, design, and technical analysis.
•    Promote a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and professional growth.
3.    Operational & Resource Management
•    Manage human, financial, and operational resources for the engineering function.
•    Prepare and manage annual operating and capital budgets for the engineering team.
•    Ensure engineering governance, QA/QC, and compliance with design standards.
•    Act as project sponsor or change agent for key initiatives that enhance operational performance.
4.    Cross‑Functional Collaboration
•    Work closely with Operations to ensure mine plans are executable and aligned with production goals.
•    Collaborate with Geotechnical teams on slope design, pit wall monitoring, and geotechnical controls.
•    Support Drill & Blast engineering to optimize fragmentation, cost, and safety.
•    Ensure integration of mine planning with milling, maintenance, and business planning functions.
5.    Compliance, Safety & Values
•    Ensure compliance with all company policies, including safety, environmental, and code of conduct.
•    Model Kinross values and leadership practices; set the cultural tone for the engineering team.
•    Promote safe work practices and ensure engineering designs incorporate safety and environmental considerations.
•    Identify, report, and correct unsafe conditions or behaviors.

Qualifications and Skill Requirements

1.  Bachelor’s degree in engineering; Mine Engineering preferred.
2.  Formal professional designation is preferred in appropriate area of expertise.
3.  Minimum 10 years of relevant experience in open‑pit mine engineering, including study phases, design, planning, and operations. 
4.  Knowledge and experience in coordinating the mine engineering functions for study phases, basic and detailed engineering through site development and operations.
5.  Proficiency with industry‑standard mine planning software (e.g., Deswik, Vulcan, Minesight).
6.  Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently.
7.  Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
8.  Demonstrated leadership ability with experience managing technical teams.
9.  Strong organizational, administrative, and technical writing skills.
10.  General understanding of milling and maintenance operations and how they integrate with mining.
11.  Valid driver’s license; must be 18 years or older and authorized to work in the U.S.

Health, Safety & Environmental Requirements

•    Manage the RMGC Environmental Health and Safety Management System within areas of responsibility.
•    Adhere to all safety and environmental regulations and company policies.
•    Wear required PPE in production environments.
•    Maintain a strong commitment to safe work practices and hazard recognition.
•    Ensure engineering designs and plans comply with regulatory and corporate HSE requirements.

Kinross Leadership Practices

•    Prioritize the safety and well‑being of all employees.
•    Treat all individuals with respect and foster an inclusive environment.
•    Develop and empower employees to reach their full potential.
•    Demonstrate leadership in environmental performance and community relations.
•    Hold self and others accountable for commitments and results.
•    Use sound judgment to manage complexity and make timely decisions.
•    Build strong teams and collaborate across functions.
•    Apply commercial discipline to maximize shareholder value.
•    Champion and embed best practices across the organization
 

Legislative Requirements

Language Requirements