Specialist Mining Engineer (Design)
riotinto · Canga East ·
- Category
- Design
- Visa sponsorship
- Yes
Designs safe, efficient open-pit mine layouts and infrastructure using mining software and engineering principles to support large-scale iron ore operations.
An inclusive environment for all
We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where employees feel comfortable being themselves. We also want everyone to feel that their voices matter, that all cultures are respected, and that perspectives, as diverse as they are, are not only welcome, but essential to our success. We treat each other fairly and with dignity, regardless of race, gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, age, sexual orientation or any other distinguishing aspect.
At Rio Tinto, we welcome and encourage applications from women, older workers, persons with disabilities and representatives from diverse backgrounds.
Everyone is different, and we believe that these differences are our strength. The diversity of skills, life experiences, and perspectives within our team enhances the way we work and our ability to succeed together.
About the role
We are looking for a Specialist Mining Engineer (Designs) who will be responsible for the development, implementation, and optimization of mine designs across all stages of the mining lifecycle. The role will also be accountable for creating safe, efficient, and cost-effective mine layouts, infrastructure plans, and operational strategies, utilizing advanced software, engineering principles, industry best practices, and RT Standards to deliver innovative and practical design solutions. It’s an exciting opportunity to collaborate closely with other engineering disciplines, operations teams, and management to ensure designs meet production targets, safety standards, and regulatory requirements. It’s an exciting time to be joining our Mine Technical Services team, with the acceleration of mine progress towards realizing value from our world-class Simandou iron ore deposit.
We are an open, connected international team of technical specialists using some of the most exciting data and tools on the planet. We are the world leader in automation and smart mining.
We have technical development programmes that are industry-leading and recognize the unique nature of your role. These provide opportunities to grow your career through a dedicated technical path while being rewarded for your unique skills.
Reporting to the Superintendent Mine Planning and working in the Mine Technical Services team on site, the incumbent will be responsible for developing and implementing the site's technical systems/processes for mine design whilst working with the operations, Site MTS team and Life of Mine team to detailed designs and drawings for open-pit stages, waste rock storage facilities (both final and development designs), haul roads, stockpiles, and operational development designs. Opportunities will also exist to work closely and collaboratively with Specialist Short and Medium Term planner to develop mine plans while working through the critical mine development and design strategies for Simandou.
Key Responsibilities
Mine Design Development Develop detailed surface mine designs, including pit layouts, haul road networks, waste rock storage facilities, Ore stockpiles, and other essential infrastructure.
Planning Support Provide design input and support to planning and scheduling teams to optimize operations, considering resources availability, implementation feasibility, and operational constraints.
Geotechnical Considerations Integrate geotechnical data and analysis into mine designs to ensure stability and safety.
Hydrological and Environmental Considerations Incorporate hydrological and environmental factors into mine designs, including water management, dust control, and rehabilitation plans.
Regulatory Compliance Ensure all mine designs comply with relevant safety regulations, environmental permits, and industry standards.
Technical Documentation Prepare detailed technical reports, drawings, and specifications for mine designs.
Additionally, you will play a key role in developing and managing mine development, construction, and production schedules, ensuring seamless integration with short and long-term forecasting systems.
Support budgeting, forecasting, and capital planning through accurate design inputs and cost estimates.
Collaboration and Communication Effectively communicate design concepts and findings to internal and external stakeholders, including operations teams, management, and regulatory authorities.
Qualifications & Experience
Bachelor’s degree in mining engineering or related discipline
Minimum 10 years of open-pit mining experience, ideally in large-scale mine operations
Proficiency in mine planning tools (Alastri, Vulcan, or similar)
Strong understanding of geotechnical, hydrology, and drill & blast fundamentals
Experience working in remote, multicultural environments is highly desirable
Fluent in English: French & Chinese is an advantage
What we offer
Get recognition for your contributions, your ability to think, your hard work, and the satisfaction of knowing that you have helped the world move forward.
- Work environment where safety is always the top priority
- Competitive base salary based on your skills and experience
- Annual cash incentives for eligible employees
- Career development opportunities and training assistance to achieve your aspirations • Access to family-friendly health programs, top-notch retirement and savings plans
- Wellness benefits
- Rio Tinto's generous employee stock ownership plan
- Employee Assistance Program
- One-on-one wellness support (personal and professional matters) for you and your family
- Comprehensive leave policy covering all important life moments (vacation/annual, paid parental leave, etc.)
About the Simandou Project
The Simandou Iron Ore Project is located in the Republic of Guinea, West Africa. It is Africa’s largest infrastructure and mining project and represents one of the largest known reserves of high-grade iron ore in the world.
Rio Tinto holds rights to Simandou Blocks 3 and 4 through SimFer, a joint venture between the Government of the Republic of Guinea, Rio Tinto and Chalco Iron Ore Holdings (CIOH). Construction of the mine, together with the associated rail and port infrastructure, is well underway with first production from the SimFer mine expected in 2025.
About Rio Tinto
Rio Tinto is a global leader in the mining and materials companies. We are established in 35 countries where we produce iron ore, copper, aluminum, critical minerals, and other materials needed for the global energy transition and the prosperity of people, communities, and nations. We have been in business for 150 years, drawing on knowledge accumulated over generations and on different continents. Our mission – to find better ways to provide the materials the world needs – guides us in our quest for innovation and continuous improvement, with the goal of making products that are low in emissions and meet the right environmental, social and governance standards. But because we can't do it alone, we focus on creating partnerships that allow us to solve problems, create mutually beneficial situations and seize opportunities.