Principal Underground Geotechnical Engineer

RioTinto; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Rio Tinto is seeking a Principal Underground Geotechnical Engineer for its Resolution Copper project in Superior, AZ. This full-time role involves providing technical support related to mine design and operational processes, alongside developing innovative geotechnical solutions. Suitable candidates must possess extensive experience in geotechnical engineering and a relevant degree. Telecommuting is permitted up to 40% of the time.

Qualifications

• 15 years of related work experience in geotechnical tunneling.
• Must have 5 years of progressive post-baccalaureate work experience.
• Experience in underground excavation support and rock mass characterization.

Responsibilities

• Provides technical support and advice on mine design.
• Develops and implements geotechnical tools and processes.
• Leads and mentors junior engineers.

Skills

Underground excavation support design

Rock mass characterization

Numerical Modelling

Geotechnical instrumentation

Mine backfill

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Geotechnical Engineering

Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering

Tools

Flac3D

Map3D

Job description

Principal Underground Geotechnical Engineer (Resolution Copper Company, Superior, AZ):

Provides technical support and advice to operations and projects in areas of ore body knowledge, mine design, operational process practices, and the identification of potential risks that may lead to catastrophic or reputational risks. Develops and implements tools/processes that identify geotechnical related mining and construction risks/issues and proactively implements solutions that deliver value. Develops innovative solutions through connection and engagement with leading external practitioners including consultants and educational/research institutions. Integrates rock mass parameters, modelling and monitoring data to derive key mine design criteria and geotechnical constraints for mine design and operations. Defines the scope of work / geotechnical requirements for all levels of study (OOM, PFS and FS). Leads and mentors junior engineers. Develops/implements best practise standards and guidelines in geotechnical engineering, mine design and mining operations. Coaching and quality assurance / quality control processes ensure the optimality and quality of the companies mine plans and forecasts. Develops/implements/reviews quality assurance / quality control processes to ensure the optimality and quality of mine design and operations. Preparation and review of technical reports. Meet legislative and regulatory requirements in areas of geotechnical engineering.

Telecommuting permitted up to 40% per week.

Full time employment, Monday – Friday, 40 hours per week.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Must have a Bachelor’s degree or foreign equivalent in Geotechnical Engineering, Mining Engineering, Civil Engineering, or related field, and 15 years of related work experience in geotechnical tunneling and/or underground engineering, of which 5 years are progressive post-baccalaureate related work experience in geotechnical tunneling and/or underground engineering. Alternatively, the employer will accept a Master's degree or foreign equivalent in Geotechnical Engineering, Mining Engineering, Civil Engineering, or related field, and 13 years of related work experience in geotechnical tunneling and/or underground engineering.

Must have 10 years of experience in each of the following:

• Underground excavation support design;
• Rock mass characterization via interpretation of drill core and face mapping.

Must have 5 years of experience in each of the following:

• Numerical Modelling in Flac3D or Map3D;
• Geotechnical instrumentation and monitoring;
• Bulk stopping design experience; and
• Mine backfill.

Telecommuting permitted up to 40% per week.

Domestic and regional travel required up to 10% for internal meetings and development.

TO APPLY: Interested applicants must apply through https://jobs.riotinto.com & search for requisition number R27031. Should you have any difficulty in applying for this position through our website, please contact [e-mail] for assistance in the application process.

About Rio Tinto

Rio Tinto is a leading global mining and materials company. We operate in 35 countries where we produce iron ore, copper, aluminium, critical minerals, and other materials needed for the global energy transition and for people, communities, and nations to thrive.

We have been mining for 150 years and operate with knowledge built up across generations and continents. Our purpose is finding better ways to provide the materials the world needs – striving for innovation and continuous improvement to produce materials with low emissions and to the right environmental, social and governance standards. But we can’t do it on our own, so we’re focused on creating partnerships to solve problems, create win-win situations and meet opportunities.

Every Voice Matters

Rio Tinto is committed to equal employment opportunity. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, disability, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

We are committed to an inclusive environment where people feel safe, respected and valued. We want our people to feel that all voices are heard and that a variety of perspectives are not only welcome but are essential to our success. We treat all our people fairly and with dignity.

Rio Tinto participates in E- Verify to confirm work authorization. Please visit http://www.ucis.gov/ for more information.