Geotechnical Engineering (UBC Intern/Co-op)

Equilibrium Mining; Vancouver; Hybrid; CAD 39,000 - 44,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance: up to CAD 1,000

Hybrid work arrangements

Job summary

Equilibrium Mining is seeking a Geological Engineering Co‑op Student to join its geotechnical team and assist with rock mass characterization, stability evaluations for open-pit and underground mines, and field investigations in remote locations, gaining hands-on experience with Rocscience and modelling tools.

The role offers exposure to technical reports, client communication, and participation in development initiatives under experienced engineers, with a focus on safety and professional

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled at the University of British Columbia and eligible for co-op or internship.
• 3rd or 4th year student pursuing Geological Engineering, Mining Engineering, Earth Sciences, or a related field.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally for field investigations.
• Safety-conscious, responsible and committed to safe work practices.
• Strong communication, interpersonal and problem-solving skills.
• Experience in engineering consulting or remote mine-site environments is an asset.
• Familiarity with geotechnical modelling software (e.g., Rocscience) is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Support rock mass characterization and stability evaluations for open-pit and underground mines.
• Assist rock mechanics assessments and site investigations to evaluate geological conditions and risks.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and project documentation for clients.
• Contribute to technical papers, research, and development under senior engineers.
• Support geotechnical field investigations in remote locations, including core logging, sampling and mapping.
• Adhere to health and safety guidelines and champion safe work.

Skills

Safety-conscious

Communication skills

Problem solving

MS Word

Excel

PowerPoint

Rocscience

Education

UBC enrolled for co-op/intern

Geological Engineering / Mining Engineering / Earth Sciences

Tools

Rocscience

Job description

As a Geological Engineering Co-op Student, you will have the opportunity to participate in geotechnical studies of prominent mine deposits worldwide. You will collaborate with a global team of professionals, assisting with geotechnical data collection, analysis, and design for both underground and open-pit mines. The role will provide exposure to geotechnical modelling software and hands‑on experience with remote geotechnical field investigations, including core logging.

Equilibrium recognizes the importance of training and professional development. We aim to foster your growth by providing practical experience that will strengthen your skills and knowledge and prepare you for a successful career in geotechnical engineering.

Why Join Equilibrium?

Global reach. Specialist expertise. Real influence.

Equilibrium brings together the global reach and expertise of an established consultancy with the autonomy and agility of a specialist firm.

Here, you’ll work closely with experienced leaders, have a genuine voice in the business and see the impact of your work firsthand. As we grow, you’ll have the opportunity to take ownership, deepen your expertise and play a meaningful role in shaping what comes next.

We want our people to grow with the business, build meaningful relationships and make a lasting contribution - not simply be part of the team, but help build the future of Equilibrium.

The Role:

You will:

• Support projects involving rock mass characterization and stability evaluations for open-pit and underground mines.
• Assist with rock mechanics assessments and site investigations to evaluate geological conditions and identify potential risks.
• Assist in preparing technical reports, presentations, and project documentation to communicate findings and recommendations to clients.
• Contribute to technical papers, research, and development initiatives under the direction of intermediate and senior engineers.
• Support geotechnical field investigations in remote locations, including geotechnical core logging, sampling, and mapping.
• Adhere to health and safety guidelines and be a champion for safe work.

What We’re Looking For:

• Enrolled at the University of British Columbia and eligible for a co‑op or internship work term.
• 3rd or 4th year student pursuing Geological Engineering, Mining Engineering, Earth Sciences, or a related field.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally for remote geotechnical field investigations.
• Safety‑conscious, responsible, and committed to safe work practices.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and problem‑solving skills.
• Highly motivated and eager to learn.
• Experience in engineering consulting or remote mine‑site environments is an asset.
• Familiarity with MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and geotechnical modelling software (e.g., Rocscience) is an asset.
• Familiarity with programming, scripting, or automation is an asset.

About Equilibrium:

Complex challenges. Practical solutions. Technical excellence.

Equilibrium is a specialist technical consultancy serving the global mining and natural resources sectors. We bring together expertise in geotechnical engineering, structural geology, and hydrogeology, to solve complex technical challenges and deliver practical solutions for our clients.

Founded by internationally respected technical leaders, we combine deep technical expertise with a practical, solutions‑focused approach and close client relationships. Our multidisciplinary teams work across regions and disciplines to deliver work that is technically sound, practical and fit for purpose.

Technical excellence is at the heart of what we do. We are committed to continuously improving our expertise, how we work and the value we deliver to our clients.

Our People & Culture:

Different perspectives make us stronger.

We believe bringing together different experiences and ways of thinking makes our teams stronger and our work better. More than half of our team are women, reflecting the inclusive and collaborative culture we are building at Equilibrium.

We look for people who are technically excellent, curious, empathetic and generous with their knowledge. Initiative, collaboration and fresh thinking shape how we work, while respect and transparency guide how we work with one another.

We want people to feel heard, supported and empowered to contribute - whether that’s sharing an idea, challenging an assumption or helping a colleague succeed.

Our values: excellence, transparency, diversity and mindfulness of our impact - guide how we work with each other, serve our clients and contribute to our communities and the planet.

Compensation:

The expected hourly rate for this co‑op position is $28-$32 CAD/hour, based on the candidate's background, experience, and fit for the role.

Transport & Housing:

• Relocation Assistance: We provide up to $1,000 CAD in relocation assistance to help offset the cost of flights and luggage.
  Housing: Students are responsible for arranging and covering their own housing and accommodation costs during the co‑op term.

Location:

Equilibrium operates globally, with offices in South Brisbane, Australia; Vancouver, Canada; and Portland and Phoenix, USA.

This position is based in Vancouver, BC and regular attendance at our office is expected when the employee is not assigned to a field assignment. We welcome applications from candidates currently based in Vancouver, Canada, as well as candidates who are willing to relocate to Vancouver. Flexible hybrid arrangements may be considered for the right individual. Depending on project requirements and the candidate’s location, experience, and qualifications, alternative location arrangements may be considered for the right candidate, including the possibility of being based through our Portland or Phoenix, U.S. offices.

Additional Requirements:

• Must be legally authorized to work in Canada where the position is based.
• Periodic domestic and/or international travel may be required for project assignments, meetings, training, field investigations, and other business purposes, including travel to remote project and mine sites. Field assignments may require extended periods away from home.
• As the Employer operates globally, flexibility in work schedule may be required to support collaboration across different time zones.
• Depending on project or client requirements, the role may require security, background, criminal record, drug and alcohol, or other screening.