Geotechnical Lead - Exploration

Role Overview

The Lead Exploration Geotechnical Engineer will oversee the collection, interpretation, and application of geotechnical data across all exploration and early development projects. This role will guide site teams in building robust rock mass models, identifying geotechnical risks, and ensuring that projects transition smoothly from exploration through feasibility and into operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership for geotechnical programs across three operations, ensuring consistent standards and methodologies.
• Develop and implement core logging, field mapping, and structural data collection protocols.
• Collaborate with exploration geologists to design drilling programs that capture geotechnical and structural information critical to mine planning.
• Lead early stability assessments for open pit and underground concepts, including slope design inputs and preliminary ground support recommendations.
• Manage geotechnical databases and generate models for use in resource and mine planning.
• Identify geotechnical hazards and provide mitigation strategies to exploration and project development teams.
• Mentor junior geotechnical staff and provide training across operations to build internal capability.
• Liaise with external consultants, laboratories, and software providers as required.
• Contribute to prefeasibility and feasibility studies with clear, defensible geotechnical inputs.
• Ensure alignment with corporate safety and risk management frameworks.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelors degree in Mining Engineering, Geological Engineering, or Civil Engineering with a focus on geotechnics. A postgraduate qualification in rock mechanics or geotechnical engineering is highly desirable.
• Minimum 10 years of geotechnical experience, with at least 5 years in hard rock mining.
• Demonstrated experience in exploration or early stage project development.
• Strong capability in core logging, structural geology, and field mapping.
• Proficiency in geotechnical and modelling software such as Rocscience, Leapfrog, Datamine, or similar.
• Strong project management and leadership skills, with experience coordinating multi-site teams.
• Excellent communication skills, able to interface with exploration teams, mine planners, and corporate leadership.
• Ability to travel across North America and work in remote field environments.