Principal Mining Engineer (Australian Mining Experience)

The position holder applies senior technical expertise to lead and undertake mine planning studies, resolve complex operational problems, and provide independent technical advice across a range of commodities and operations.

The role is structured as a full-time employee and requires a high degree of self-direction, reliable availability during agreed working hours, and the ability to collaborate effectively across geographic and time zone boundaries.

All work is delivered digitally; occasional travel to Australia or client sites may be required for specific project engagements.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

* Deliver mine designs, schedules, and life-of-mine plans that meet client requirements for technical rigor, accuracy, and timeliness, working fully remotely.
* Lead and conduct mine planning studies, strategic evaluations, and technical reviews across client operations.
* Apply production forecasting and scenario analysis to support informed client decision-making.
* Identify and assess opportunities to improve mine productivity, performance, and economic value.
* Provide practical, well-reasoned solutions to complex mine planning and operational challenges.
* Present technical findings, study outcomes, and recommendations clearly and confidently to clients and their senior stakeholders via remote communication channels.
* Manage client relationships professionally and independently within the remote context, maintaining responsiveness and clear communication across time zones.
* Provide mentoring and technical guidance to junior engineers within the client's organization as required, using remote collaboration tools.
* Support our client's project delivery across multiple clients and commodity types.
* Maintain thorough digital records and documentation in accordance with the company's standards, ensuring accessibility for the broader team.
* Contribute to the development and continuous improvement of internal technical standards and practices.

Job Qualifications:

Must-Have Requirements

* Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or a closely related field.
* Significant mine planning and scheduling experience in the hard rock mining industry.
* Experience with Australian mining operations or standards.
* Senior-level experience, ideally at Senior or Principal Engineer level or equivalent.
* Strong proficiency in Deswik or similar mine scheduling software.
* Proven experience in mine design, life-of-mine planning, and production scheduling.
* Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
* Ability to work independently and manage deliverables remotely without on-site supervision.
* Excellent written and verbal English communication skills.
* Experience in client management and technical consulting, preferably in a remote environment.
* Reliable WFH setup, including stable internet and capability for video conferencing and digital collaboration.
* Strong commitment to workplace safety and professional standards.

Preferred / Nice-to-Have

* Direct experience in the Australian mining industry.
* Experience with multiple commodities or mining methods.
* Experience in both open-cut and underground mining.
* Knowledge of Surpac, Vulcan, Datamine, or other mine planning software.
* International consulting or remote advisory experience.
* Familiarity with Australian mining regulations and standards.
* AusIMM membership or equivalent professional membership.

Key Competencies

* Technical Expertise: Strong mine planning, design, and scheduling knowledge at a senior/principal level.
* Independent Work: Able to manage workload, deadlines, and deliverables with minimal supervision.
* Communication: Can explain technical information clearly through email, calls, and video meetings.
* Client Management: Builds strong relationships and maintains credibility with clients and stakeholders.
* Problem-Solving: Analyzes complex mining challenges and develops practical solutions.
* Collaboration: Works effectively with geographically dispersed teams.
* Safety: Integrates safety considerations into technical planning and decision-making.
* Professionalism: Consistently delivers accurate, high-quality, and technically rigorous work.