Geotechnical Engineer (Open Pit)

AI overview

This role involves extensive geotechnical data management and interpretation in a unique residential mining environment, ensuring safety and operational effectiveness.

Are you tired of FIFO? Missing family, friends and milestone celebrations regularly?
Imagine having a true work-life balance located in the stunning region of Otago. No more FIFO! No more extreme heat waves! Experience the unbeatable lifestyle of a stunning residential mining location, just a short distance away from the most incredible mountains and awe-inspiring scenery. Your days off are available for hiking, adventuring, fishing, and skiing in winter.

In this role, you will be responsible for geotechnical data collection, monitoring, management, analysis and interpretation. Then use that data, your experience and judgement to provide relevant and timely advice on geotechnical hazards. 

Key responsibilities:

  • Undertake routine geotechnical data collection activities such as drill core logging, face mapping, test pits, borehole, prism and seepage monitoring, etc. 
  • Collaborate with and support exploration, tailings and environmental staff with data collection and monitoring responsibilities. 
  • Maintain geotechnical databases, including accurate data entry, quality control and security. 
  • Install, maintain and monitor specialist geotechnical equipment including slope radar, prism network monitoring, GNSS, piezometers, extensometers, inclinometers, LiDAR and photogrammetry equipment. 
  • Assist coordination of and execution of geotechnical and hydrogeological investigation and monitoring programs, including specialist activities such as downhole geophysical logging, geotechnical core logging and sampling, hydrogeological packer and slug testing, installation of borehole piezometers, extensometers and inclinometers. 
  • Undertake routine regular inspection of pit walls, excavations, blast performance, waste rock stacks and other infrastructure.   
  • Interpret and analyse geotechnical data including trend identification and analysis.  
  • Predict, identify and closely monitor areas at risk of slope failure. 
  • Delineate, secure, and manage areas of hazard with appropriate signage and restrictions.  Communicate these hazards to appropriate personnel. 
  • Understand and maintain familiarity with the site Ground Control Management Plan (GCMP) and Principal Hazard Management Plan (PHMP) for Ground Instability, ensuring that the plans are followed under the direction of senior geotechnical staff. 
  • Relevant tertiary qualification in either Geomechanics, Geotechnical Engineering, Geology or Engineering Geology.  
  • Full and Current Driver Licence, ability to drive manual vehicles is preferred.                       
  • 2 to 5 years’ relevant experience. 
  • Experience with geotechnical software such as DIPS, ROCSLOPE and UNWEDGE. 

WHAT'S ON OFFER:

  • Residential role, live and work in the stunning region of Otago, NZ.
  • 8/6 roster, days only.
  • 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 recoginition program
  • Free transport to work
  • Flexible work arrangements
  • Study assistance
  • 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 are not only welcome – they are essential to our success. Should you require any assistance applying for this opportunity, please contact us at [email protected]

**Applications close 5 February 2026. Shortlisting will commence immediately. Applicants must be eligible to work in New Zealand.

PLEASE NOTE: APPLICATIONS FROM AGENCIES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED

Perks & Benefits Extracted with AI

  • Education Stipend: Study assistance
  • Flexible Work Hours: Flexible work arrangements
  • Health Insurance: Free Southern Cross Healthcare and Life Insurance
  • Recognizes long service: Long service recognition

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Salary
NZ$110,000 – NZ$120,000 per year
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