The posting
We are seeking a Mining Engineer to support the planning, construction, and transition to operations of a developing surface lithium mine at the Thacker Pass Project in northern Nevada.
This is a long-term opportunity for an early-career mining engineer looking to gain hands-on experience across mine planning, production, surveying, construction, and project engineering. The position works closely with operations personnel, engineering teams, and on-site contractors in a collaborative, safety-focused environment.
The Mining Engineer will support short-range planning and production tracking throughout construction and into the mine production phase. The role will also help plan and coordinate survey activities, monitor project progress and operating efficiencies, support daily reporting, and contribute to engineering and construction projects across the operation.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Develop ore grade-control plans and schedules to help ensure material-quality requirements are achieved.
- Work closely with operations personnel to develop and update short-range plans that support project and production schedules.
- Assist with equipment scheduling and utilization to improve operational efficiency.
- Plan and coordinate site surveys to validate material movement and verify that construction projects are completed according to plan.
- Track construction, mining, and production activities and assist with daily progress and efficiency reporting.
- Assist with engineering studies, including operating budgets, optimization studies, and equipment evaluations.
- Provide engineering and technical support to operations and maintenance teams.
- Plan and track plant waste streams as the operation transitions into production.
- Assist with the design and oversight of construction projects involving buildings, concrete structures, water-management facilities, and related mine infrastructure.
- Coordinate with operations personnel, engineers, survey teams, and contractors to support safe and efficient project execution.
- Provide technical support for environmental engineering projects associated with mine permitting and regulatory compliance, including surface and groundwater management, soils handling, waste management, and blasting.
- Perform responsibilities in accordance with MSHA requirements, established safety procedures, and applicable state and federal regulations.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Science degree in Mining Engineering, Civil Engineering, Geological Engineering, Construction Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
- 1–3 years of mining engineering experience in a surface mining operation.
- Experience with construction and/or project management is desirable.
- Familiarity with large earthmoving equipment and its application in surface mining environments.
- Strong computer skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
- Experience with AutoCAD.
- Experience with geologic modeling and mine-planning software; Vulcan experience is a plus.
- Experience with mine planning or scheduling software such as Vulcan, Micromine, Alastri, or similar is a plus.
- Surveying experience is a plus.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Ability to work effectively with operations personnel, engineers, contractors, and other project stakeholders.
Work Location & Relocation
This position supports the Thacker Pass Project in Orovada, Nevada.
Candidates should currently reside in or be willing to relocate to Winnemucca, Nevada. Relocation assistance is provided.
Physical & Work Environment Requirements
This position combines office-based engineering responsibilities with regular fieldwork in an active surface mining and construction environment.
Occasionally (up to 1/3 of the workday): Kneeling or crouching during inspections and troubleshooting; pushing or pulling light equipment and sampling devices; reaching above or below shoulder level; riding in heavy equipment; entering and exiting equipment using three-point contact; working at elevations or on elevated platforms; bending and stooping; lifting up to approximately 30–40 pounds; carrying PPE, survey equipment, laptops, tools, or sampling gear; climbing stairs, ladders, and equipment access points; and standing during meetings, inspections, and site observations.
Frequently (1/3–2/3 of the workday): Navigating active mining and construction areas; working around haul trucks and other mobile equipment; walking across pit floors, waste dumps, slopes, and uneven or rocky terrain; driving light vehicles throughout the mine site, including distances of 10 or more miles per day; and sitting for engineering design, planning, scheduling, reporting, AutoCAD, mine-planning software, and other computer-based work.
Constantly (2/3 or more of the workday): Using fine motor skills for computers, engineering software, GPS, and survey equipment; visual observation for hazard recognition, surveying, and interpretation of plans and screens; hearing radio communications, alarms, and heavy equipment; communicating with operators, supervisors, engineers, and contractors; maintaining depth perception around haul roads, highwalls, and other mine features; and maintaining situational awareness in an MSHA-regulated environment.
Equal Employment Opportunity
We are an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate on the basis of any status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.
Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future visa sponsorship.
