Principal Tailings Project Manager

AECOM; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 180,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global engineering firm is seeking a Principal Tailings Project Manager in Denver to lead large-scale tailings storage facility projects. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in geotechnical engineering with at least 10 years of relevant experience and proven project management abilities. This role involves overseeing multidisciplinary teams and driving project success, with competitive compensation of $180,000 per year.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package

Flexible work options

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of relevant experience with a leadership role.
• 2 years of experience in managing large-scale projects.
• Experience in tailings storage facility projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead large-scale tailings storage facility projects.
• Oversee planning, design, and construction phases.
• Mentor and develop engineering teams.

Skills

Leadership

Project Management

Geotechnical Engineering

Client Relationship Management

Education

BA/BS in relevant field

MA/MS in Civil Engineering

Job description

Overview

AECOM is seeking a highly motivated Principal Tailings Project Manager to support mine tailings storage facility and heavy civil infrastructure design and analysis as part of the Mining group in Denver, CO, Salt Lake City, Utah, or Phoenix, Arizona.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership on large-scale tailings storage facility (TSF) projects, overseeing planning, design, and construction in accordance with international best practices (e.g. GISTM).
• Serve as the primary client interface, building and maintaining strong relationships with mining clients, regulators, and stakeholders while guiding strategic project delivery and providing alignment with business objectives.
• Direct multi-disciplinary teams of geotechnical, civil, structural, and environmental engineers in developing design solutions for tailings storage facilities, underflow sand embankments, cyclone stations, tailings pipelines, seepage control systems, and water management infrastructure.
• Championing a culture of health, safety, and environmental excellence across all project phases, integrate risk management practices into design and construction.
• Navigate and resolve conflicts within the project team and with clients, demonstrating professionalism, diplomacy, and the ability to stand firm on technical and contractual requirements while maintaining positive relationships.
• Lead project financial management, including preparation and negotiation of contracts, project budgets, schedules, and change management to deliver on time and within scope.
• Generate and interpret EVM reports to provide actionable insights for project stakeholders, enabling informed decision-making and continuous performance improvement.
• Mentor and develop engineering leads, deputy project managers, and project control team members, provide technical guidance, career development support, and fostering a culture of innovation, quality, and accountability within the team.
• Support business development efforts by leading proposal preparation, developing capture strategies, and positioning AECOM for future TSF and mining infrastructure projects globally.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

• BA/BS + 10 yrs of relevant experience or combination of demonstrated experience and/or education and 2 years of leadership.

Preferred Qualifications

• MA/MS Civil Engineering with Geotechnical Emphasis
• 20 years of relevant experience
• Professional Engineer (PE) License
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment

Additional Information

• Relocation is available for this position.
• Sponsorship is not available now or in the future for this position.
• Project site travel required (up to 30%)

About AECOM

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan.

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2024. Learn more at aecom.com.

What makes AECOM a great place to work

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community—where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity.

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Compensation: $180,000-$180,000 per year