Senior Geotechnical Engineer (Residential, Waihi Nz Based)

Senior Geotechnical Engineer (Residential, Waihi NZ based)

Oceana Gold

Brisbane, QLD

A$175,000-$195,000 p / a

On-site

Posted 1 day ago

Company Description

OceanaGold is a growing mid-tier gold and copper producer listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX).

With four operating mines—Haile in the USA, Didipio in the Philippines, and Macraes and Waihi in New Zealand—we are committed to safe, responsible mining that generates strong returns and supports sustainable development.

Our purpose is mining gold for a better future.

The gold, copper, and silver we produce power renewable energy, life-saving medical devices, and the technology that connects communities.

Beyond this, our operations drive economic growth and improve health and education outcomes in the regions we serve, supporting over 3,700 direct jobs globally.

Guided by our values—Care, Respect, Integrity, Performance, and Teamwork—we strive to be a trusted company people want to work for, partner with, and invest in, creating lasting value for all our stakeholders.

Job Description

This is a rare opportunity to join a multi-billion dollar, new gold mine project situated in a stunning location near Waihi, New Zealand.

Situated just 6km north of our existing minesite, we have identified a high grade ore body and are currently going through a fast track consenting process.

This role provides expert geotechnical engineering leadership to ensure the safe, efficient, and sustainable development of the new mine.

You will give geotechnical input for early tunnelling works, conducting rigorous stability analysis and ground support design, overseeing the transition to production and stoping phases, with robust risk management, monitoring, and ground control systems.

A key focus will be to champion innovation in geotechnical modelling, monitoring, and design to optimise ore recovery, minimise dilution, and extend mine life, while serving as the principal technical authority on geotechnical risk management, compliance, and stakeholder engagement throughout the entire mine lifecycle.

Key responsibilities

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 Engineering, or Geology.

Full and current driver licence; manual vehicle capability preferred.

Minimum 10 years' geotechnical experience.

Proven team leadership and advanced proficiency in geotechnical software (e.g., SLIDE, UNWEDGE, SWEDGE, DIPS, RS2, MAP3D, FLAQ3D, Abaqus).

What's on offer

Residential role, live and work in the stunning region of Waihi, NZ

Competitive salary + short-term and long-term bonus

Discounts on retail and services

Free Southern Cross Healthcare and Life Insurance

Long service recognition

Living Our Values recognition program

Free transport to work

Study assistance

Access to OceanaGold Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Exceptional working environment where people are valued and respected

OceanaGold is committed to providing equal employment opportunities.

We believe a variety of perspectives are not only welcome – they are essential to our success.

Should you require any assistance applying for this opportunity, please contact us at

Applications close 8 December

Shortlisting will commence immediately.

Please note that a valid New Zealand working Visa will be required for this position.

PLEASE NOTE : APPLICATIONS FROM AGENCIES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.

About Oceana Gold

Melbourne, VIC, Australia

OceanaGold is a global gold mining company with a strong presence in Philippines, New Zealand and United States.

OceanaGold Corporation is a mid-tier, low-cost, multinational gold producer with assets located in the Philippines, New Zealand and the United States.

The Company's assets encompass its flagship operation, the Didipio Gold-Copper Mine located on the island of Luzon in the Philippines.

On the north island of New Zealand, the Company operates the high-grade Waihi Gold Mine.

On the south island of New Zealand, OceanaGold operates the largest gold mine in the country at the Macraes Goldfield, which is made up of a series of open pit mines and the Frasers underground mine.

Source : This is an extract from the company's own website.

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