Surveyor

Kinross-Gold-Corporation; Alaska; On-site; USD 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Kinross Gold Corporation in Alaska seeks a Mine Surveyor responsible for a full range of surface mine surveying, determining precise locations, elevations, lines and contours to support mining and production planning.

The role involves UAV data collection, mapping, and collaboration with Engineering and Operations teams. Requires FAA Part 107 remote pilot certificate, high school diploma, and strong communication skills.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred; able to read/write instructions and perform basic math.
• Knowledge of computers and programs to plot surveying data (3D and Point cloud modeling software, GIS, Excel).
• Knowledge of survey theory, methods, and instrumentation, with a preference for UAVs and GNSS.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Self-starter who can work in a team environment.
• Proficiency in drone operations including flight planning, data collection, and post-processing.
• Available for shift work, overtime, holidays, and weekends.
• Must hold FAA Part 107 UAS Remote Pilot Certificate.

Responsibilities

• Survey open-pit mines, ore control layout, pit toes/crests, ramps, and other projects.
• Post daily production, ore control reports, and month-end data on maps/plans.
• Set reference lines and establish controls for accuracy and compliance.
• Operate UAS drones to collect high-precision data for mapping and analysis.
• Maintain and calibrate survey equipment, including UAVs, GPS rovers, and total stations.
• Follow guidelines; ensure safety, confidentiality, and environmental policies.
• Collaborate with Engineering and Operations departments.

Skills

UAS drone operations

Drone data collection

GIS & mapping

GNSS technology

Communication

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

UAVs

3D point cloud software

GIS software

Excel

Total stations

Job description

Responsible for carrying out a full range of mine surveying functions at surface mine sites and surrounding areas. Determine precise location and measurement of points, elevations, lines, areas, and contours for mining support, drill patterns, maps, and other survey purposes. Must produce results that accurately define mine operations and can be used for planning and production support. Must accept work and technology upgrades in a gracious manner. Complete survey projects in a timely and efficient manner. Position requires direct involvement with Engineering and Operations departments.

Job Responsibilities

• Responsible for surveying in open-pit mines, ore control layout, pit toes and crests, ramp slopes, construction projects, reconnaissance surveying, and exploration drill hole locations.
• Responsible for accurately posting daily production, ore control reports, and month-end production data on maps and plans.
• Set reference lines and establish controls to ensure accuracy and engineering compliance.
• Operate small Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) drones to collect high-precision data for mapping and survey analysis.
• Maintain and calibrate survey equipment, including UAVs, GPS rovers, total stations, and other measurement tools.
• Follow instructions and pre-established guidelines to perform functions of the job.
• Punctuality and regular attendance is required.
• Meet or exceed established performance expectations set by management.
• Compliance with all company policies and procedures, including, but not limited to, safety, confidentiality, and environmental policies.
• Possession of a valid driver’s license issued by the state.
• Work safely in all areas and identify potential safety hazards and work with management to correct them.
• Work without significant risk of harm to self and others.
• Perform other duties as required.

Qualifications and Skill Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred. Employee must have sufficient education to read and write instructions, perform simple mathematical calculations, and keep records.
• Knowledge of computers and programs to plot surveying data preferred (3D and Point cloud modeling software, GIS, Excel).
• Knowledge of survey theory, methods, and instrumentation, with a preference for those experienced in using UAVs and GNSS technology.
• Must have solid verbal and written communication skills.
• Must be a self-starter with the ability to work with others in a team environment.
• Proficiency in drone operations, including experience with flight planning, data collection, and post-processing of UAS survey data preferred.
• Ability to function within the qualifications outlined in the attached physical demands sheets.
• Must be available for shift work, overtime, holidays, and weekends.
• Progression through wage scale is contingent upon satisfactory completion of attached checklists.
• Must currently possess an FAA Part 107 UAS Remote Pilot Certificate.

Skills

• Complete survey projects in a timely and efficient manner.
• Must produce results that can be utilized in mine planning and production support.
• Must accept work and ever changing technology upgrades in a gracious manner.
• Responsible to manage the RMGC Environmental Health and Safety Management system in his/her areas of responsibility.
• Possesses good communication and interpersonal skills.
• General understanding of mining operations, as well as limited understanding of milling and maintenance operations.
• Working knowledge and skill with P.C. utilizing word processing, spreadsheet, database, and presentation software.
• Strong verbal, written, analytical and persuasive skills and the ability to interact effectively with all levels of employees and management.
• Ability to work independently and also as a member of the management team.
• Demonstrates strong administrative, organizational and technical writing skills
• Must be 18 years old and presently authorized to work in the United States on a full time basis.