Senior Engineering Manager - Projects & Operations

We are seeking an experienced Manager - Projects and Engineering to join a well-established global engineering consultancy specializing in mining and mineral processing operations. This head-office based leadership role offers the opportunity to drive day-to-day operations for engineering, design, and project execution teams while building critical client relationships across the mining sector. The position includes travel to client sites and offers strong succession planning opportunities with potential progression to senior executive leadership within our growing Tucson office.

Key Responsibilities

Project Management & Execution

• Lead and oversee multiple engineering projects from inception through completion
• Ensure all projects are executed thoroughly and compliantly to company and engineering standards
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resource allocation
• Close out current projects successfully and ensure smooth launch of new initiatives
• Implement and maintain company standards for project execution excellence

Team Leadership & Management

• Provide day-to-day leadership to engineering, design, and project teams
• Manage and develop direct reports across multiple disciplines
• Foster collaborative team environment and drive performance improvements
• Mentor team members and support their professional development
• Conduct performance reviews and manage staffing requirements

Client Relationship Management

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key client personnel
• Travel to client sites (2-6 days per month) for project oversight and relationship building
• Serve as primary point of contact for major client accounts
• Identify new business opportunities and support business development efforts
• Ensure exceptional client service delivery and satisfaction

Strategic Operations

• Support the President with operational oversight and strategic planning
• Contribute to succession planning and organizational development
• Assist with business growth initiatives and market expansion
• Participate in senior leadership decision-making processes
• Help establish the company as a key player in the regional mining sector

Technical Excellence

• Ensure engineering designs meet industry standards and client specifications
• Review and approve technical deliverables and project documentation
• Stay current with industry trends, regulations, and best practices
• Support continuous improvement initiatives across engineering processes
• Maintain professional engineering credentials and certifications

Requirements

Essential:

• Engineering degree required (Mechanical preferred, other disciplines considered)
• Professional Engineer (PE) status preferred
• Extensive project management experience in similar environments
• Engineering and design office experience
• Mining/mineral/chemical processing plant knowledge and experience
• Strong team leadership, communication and emotional intelligence skills
• Experience managing projects and teams in technical environments
• Ability to obtain Arizona driver's license for company vehicle use
• English proficiency
• Ability to complete MSHA and site access safety training annually
• Ability to pass medical, hearing and respiratory baseline monitoring

Preferred:

• Business qualifications/MBA
• Business development skills
• Direct operations, maintenance or production experience
• International experience
• Spanish language proficiency

Benefits

• Salary: $180,000 - $225,000 (based on experience and qualifications)

• Health Insurance: Company pays 70% of premiums for employee and dependents
• Life Insurance: $50,000 policy (company paid)
• Short/Long Term Disability: 100% company paid
• 401(k) Plan: 3% auto-enrolment with 100% company match on employee 3% contribution
• Paid Time Off: 4 weeks annually from start date
• Sick Leave: 2 weeks annually
• Personal Leave: 2 weeks annually
• Paid Holidays: 8 per year including New Year's Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, 4th of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving (2 days), Christmas Day

Why This Role Exists: The hiring supervisor currently performs this role alongside senior executive responsibilities as a Board member and Director. This position will provide dedicated, consistent leadership to operations while supporting our succession planning strategy - the ideal candidate could progress to the President role.

Growth Opportunity: This role offers a clear pathway to senior executive leadership within a medium-sized global engineering services group, with potential succession to the President position for the right candidate.

Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy 

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status. 

Commitment to Diversity: Keller Executive Search and its clients are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all individuals are valued and respected. 

Reasonable Accommodations: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities and pregnant individuals. We engage in an interactive process to determine effective, reasonable accommodations.  

Compensation Information: For client positions, compensation information is available in the job post. If not provided, it will be shared during the interview process in accordance with applicable laws. When required by law, salary ranges will be included in job postings. Actual salary may depend on skills, experience, and comparison to current employees in similar roles. Salary ranges may vary based on role and location. 

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• Colorado, Nevada, New York City, California, and Washington Residents: Compensation information is available in the job post or will be provided during the interview process if not initially available. 

• Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to pay equity and conduct periodic pay equity analyses in accordance with applicable laws. 

State-Specific Information: 

• Rhode Island: We do not request or require salary history from applicants. 

• Connecticut: We provide wage range information upon request or before discussing compensation. 

• New Jersey: We do not inquire about salary history unless voluntarily disclosed. 

Veteran Status: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients provide equal employment opportunities to veterans and comply with applicable state laws regarding veteran preference in employment. If you are a veteran, please inform us during the application process. 

Genetic Information: In accordance with federal and state laws, both Keller Executive Search and our clients do not discriminate based on genetic information. We do not request or require genetic information from applicants or employees, except as permitted by law. 

Local Laws: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with all applicable local laws and ordinances regarding employment practices in the areas where we operate. 

Note: This job posting may be for a position with Keller Executive Search or one of our clients. The specific employer will be identified during the application and interview process. Employment laws and requirements may vary depending on the employer and location.