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Senior Tailings Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kinross Gold Corporation

Sr. Tailings Engineer

Republic, WA

$101K - $139K/yr

The Sr. Tailings Engineer works closely with Operations, Environmental, and Project teams to ensure the responsible management of filtered tailings throughout the life of the operation. Essential ...

Capstone Mining

Sr. Tailings Engineer

Miami, AZ · On-site

$101K - $138K/yr

The Senior Tailings Engineer works closely with the Superintendent, Tailings Governance & Engineering to develop deposition strategies, monitor performance against plan, and ensure compliance with ...

P&C Recruiting and HR

ID

$115K - $125K/yr

Senior Tailings Engineer Reports To: Manager, Tailings Management Position Summary: The Senior Tailings Engineer (STE) serves as a technical specialist within the Corporate Tailings Management Team ...

Kinross Gold Corporation

Sr. Tailings Engineer

Republic, WA

$101K - $139K/yr

The Sr. Tailings Engineer works closely with Operations, Environmental, and Project teams to ensure the responsible management of filtered tailings throughout the life of the operation. Essential ...

Kinross Gold Corporation

Sr. Tailings Engineer

Republic, WA · On-site

$101K - $139K/yr

The Sr. Tailings Engineer works closely with Operations, Environmental, and Project teams to ensure the responsible management of filtered tailings throughout the life of the operation. Essential ...

Kinross Gold Corporation

Sr. Tailings Engineer

Republic, WA · On-site

$101K - $139K/yr

The Sr. Tailings Engineer works closely with Operations, Environmental, and Project teams to ensure the responsible management of filtered tailings throughout the life of the operation. Essential ...

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Senior Tailings Engineer information

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$59.5K

$126.6K

$183.5K

How much do senior tailings engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior tailings engineer in the United States is $126,557.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,500.00 and $143,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior Tailings Engineers in the mining and environmental sectors can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and professional certifications. High salaries are often associated with leadership roles, large projects, or working in regions with high cost of living and demand for expertise.

What are some common challenges faced by Senior Tailings Engineers, and how can they be addressed in day-to-day work?

Senior Tailings Engineers often navigate complex challenges such as ensuring regulatory compliance, managing evolving environmental standards, and designing safe, cost-effective tailings storage solutions. They must balance operational efficiency with long-term sustainability, often working closely with multidisciplinary teams including geotechnical engineers, environmental scientists, and site managers. Proactive communication, staying updated on industry best practices, and continuous risk assessment are key strategies to effectively address these challenges. Emphasizing collaboration and ongoing professional development also helps Senior Tailings Engineers adapt to changing project demands and regulatory landscapes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Tailings Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Tailings Engineer, you need a strong background in civil or geotechnical engineering, extensive experience with tailings management, and relevant engineering licensure. Familiarity with design software (such as AutoCAD or GeoStudio), tailings management systems, and regulatory compliance frameworks is essential. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for coordinating multidisciplinary teams and engaging with stakeholders. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible management of tailings facilities, which is critical for operational success and regulatory compliance.

What does a Senior Tailings Engineer do?

A Senior Tailings Engineer is responsible for the design, management, and oversight of tailings storage facilities, which are used to safely contain mining byproducts. They ensure that these facilities comply with safety and environmental regulations, assess risks, and develop monitoring systems to prevent failures. Senior Tailings Engineers also lead teams, supervise construction and maintenance activities, and work closely with other engineers, environmental specialists, and regulatory bodies to ensure the responsible management of tailings. Their expertise is critical to minimizing environmental impact and ensuring the long-term safety of mining operations.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior Tailings Engineers in the mining industry can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often includes bonuses, profit sharing, or other incentives, particularly in large or resource-rich companies.

What is the difference between Senior Tailings Engineer vs Tailings Engineer?

AspectSenior Tailings EngineerTailings Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in mining, geology, or civil engineering; 5+ years experience; professional engineering license often preferredBachelor's degree in related field; 1-3 years experience; licensure may be optional
Work EnvironmentDesign, oversee, and review tailings storage facilities; lead projects; coordinate with multidisciplinary teamsAssist in design and monitoring of tailings facilities; support senior staff; perform site inspections
Industry UsageCommonly employed in mining companies, consulting firms, and environmental agenciesTypically found in mining operations and engineering consulting firms

The main difference between a Senior Tailings Engineer and a Tailings Engineer lies in experience, responsibilities, and leadership. Senior Tailings Engineers have more advanced credentials, oversee complex projects, and lead teams, while Tailings Engineers support these activities with less experience. Both roles are essential in ensuring safe and compliant tailings management in the mining industry.

What does a tailings engineer do?

A tailings engineer designs, monitors, and manages the storage and disposal of mining waste materials known as tailings. They ensure the safety, environmental compliance, and stability of tailings storage facilities using engineering principles, often utilizing tools like geotechnical analysis and environmental assessments. Their work helps prevent failures and environmental hazards associated with tailings impoundments.

Will AI replace mining engineers?

AI can assist mining engineers by improving data analysis, safety monitoring, and process optimization, but it is unlikely to fully replace the need for human expertise in designing, managing, and overseeing complex mining operations. Senior Tailings Engineers, for example, rely on technical judgment, site-specific knowledge, and regulatory understanding that AI cannot replicate. Therefore, AI is expected to augment rather than replace mining engineers in their roles.
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Senior Tailings Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Tailings Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,557 per year, or $60.8 per hour.

Senior Tailings Engineer

KCB Consultant

Phoenix, AZ • On-site

$103K - $142K/yr

Other

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Senior Tailings Engineer
Location United States - Phoenix
Job Code 1762-M22

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