Senior Engineer - Geotechnical (2 year fixed term contract)

Senior Engineer—Geotechnical ( 2 year fixed term contract) OceanaGold operates a global portfolio of gold and copper mines, and our Waihi Operation in the North Island of New Zealand is an underground gold mine. A recent consent for the Waihi North Project— a new mine 6 km north of the existing operation—provides a long‑term extension of mine life. Job Description This is a rare opportunity to provide expert geotechnical engineering leadership for a new underground gold mine situated near Waihi, New Zealand. The role focuses on ensuring safe, efficient, and sustainable development throughout the project lifecycle, from initial tunnelling through to production and stoping phases. Key responsibilities include: Lead geotechnical contributions to mine design and early‑stage tunnelling, ensuring stability and effective risk mitigation throughout development. Oversee the implementation and ongoing enhancement of ground control management plans, ensuring prompt action on identified issues. Establish and maintain advanced ground and slope monitoring systems, ensuring accurate data interpretation and timely reporting. Develop and document integrated geotechnical models encompassing structural, geomechanical, lithological, and rock‑mass properties relevant to underground operations. Ensure all geotechnical analyses and designs comply with industry best practices. Conduct regular inspections and manage fill placement in historic workings to uphold safety standards. Integrate geotechnical models across the mine lifecycle, incorporating production stoping geometries, sequencing, and long‑term pillar and stope stability. Optimise stope design to minimise dilution and maximise ore recovery through geotechnical input. Oversee the design and implementation of backfill strategies (e.g., cemented rock fill, paste fill) to ensure long‑term stability and continuity of production. Develop and implement seismic monitoring protocols, hazard assessments, and response plans during production. Champion the adoption of advanced instrumentation (such as microseismic arrays, LiDAR scanning, and fibre‑optic monitoring) to enhance ground control. Mentor junior engineers in tunnelling and stoping geotechnics, ensuring succession planning for production preparedness. Qualifications Tertiary qualification in Geomechanics, Geotechnical / Mining Engineering, or Geology. Full and current driver licence; manual vehicle capability preferred. Minimum 5 years’ underground geotechnical experience. Contractor management experience. Proven team leadership and advanced proficiency in geotechnical software (e.g., SLIDE, UNWEDGE, SWEDGE, DIPS, RS 2, MAP 3D, FLAQ 3D, Abaqus). Additional Information Residential role, live and work in the stunning region of Waihi, NZ. Living Our Values recognition program. Access to OceanaGold Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Exceptional working environment where people are valued and respected. YOU MATTER: OceanaGold is committed to providing equal employment opportunities. We believe a variety of perspectives is essential to our success. If you require assistance applying for this opportunity, please contact us at [email protected]. A valid New Zealand work visa is required for this position. #J-18808-Ljbffr