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Senior Tailings Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Engineer, Tailings and Closure

Spokane, WA ยท On-site

$105K - $145K/yr

Hybrid Role Overview Reporting to TAI's Manager, Dormant Properties, the Senior Engineer, Tailings & Closure is responsible for acting as the Responsible Tailings Facility Engineer (RTFE) for ...

4.2. Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Exeter, NH ยท On-site

$92K - $126K/yr

About Phoenix Tailings Phoenix Tailings is a rapidly-growing clean mining and metals production ... Phoenix Tailings is looking for a Senior Manufacturing Engineer to take technical ownership of ...

5.1. Senior Electrical Engineer

Exeter, NH ยท On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

About Phoenix Tailings Phoenix Tailings is a rapidly-growing clean mining and metals production ... Phoenix Tailings is looking for a Senior Electrical Engineer who will play a critical role in ...

5.1. Senior Electrical Engineer

Exeter, NH ยท On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

About Phoenix Tailings Phoenix Tailings is a rapidly-growing clean mining and metals production ... Phoenix Tailings is looking for a Senior Electrical Engineer who will play a critical role in ...

4.2. Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Exeter, NH ยท On-site

$92K - $126K/yr

About Phoenix Tailings Phoenix Tailings is a rapidly-growing clean mining and metals production ... Phoenix Tailings is looking for a Senior Manufacturing Engineer to take technical ownership of ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Sep 5, 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 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 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 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.

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Infographic showing various Senior Tailings Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,557 per year, or $60.8 per hour.

Principal Geotechnical Engineer - Tailings Engineer of Record

BGC Engineering

Reno, NV โ€ข On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 26 days ago


Job description

About Us


BGC Engineering Inc. (BGC) is an international applied earth sciences professional services firm. We are proud of our talented team of over 800 employees, spanning the fields of Engineering, Geoscience, Software, Geomatics, Data Science, Accounting, Administration, Health & Safety and Human Resources. Alongside our clients and industry partners, BGC works collaboratively as 'One Team', dedicated to solving the world's most critical applied earth science challenges.BGC hasoffices locatedacross Canada, the United States, Chile, the Dominican Republic, and Australia.

Our flat management structure creates a culture of innovation, excellence and transparency and a casual, dynamic and inclusive work environment. BGC prides itself on offering training and mentoring opportunities to further our employees' professional growth as well as social and wellness activities that contribute to the connection and wellbeing of our team.

We believe in One Team, Excellence, Curiosity, Common Sense and Clarity.


The Role

BGC is seeking a Principal Geotechnical or Geological Engineer with deep expertise in tailings and mine waste management, including acting as Engineer of Record for tailings dams. This role will join our growing U.S. team and collaborate with a multi-disciplinary group of geotechnical and geological engineers, hydrotechnical engineers, geoscientists, hydrologists, hydrogeologists and more.


The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in tailings dam consulting, a passion for client service, and familiarity with U.S. regulatory frameworks and industry standards. This position will provide technical leadership, drive innovation, and advance the state of practice while embracing BGC's core values.


Join a company recognised for employee ownership, an R&D-driven culture, and commitment to excellence. This position can be based out of an existing BGC office (Golden, CO or Reno, NV) or can be remotely located from a U.S. mining hub (e.g. Elko, NV, Tucson, AZ, Phoenix, AZ, Salt Lake City, UT). Depending on location, BGC may consider the establishment of a new office.


Responsibilities


  • Participate in business development, including identifying new opportunities, promoting BGC's capacity for undertaking innovative and advanced technical projects, and proposal writing.
  • Work with client and partner representatives.
  • Travel to other BGC offices on occasion to foster team connectivity and participate in business development and planning initiatives in support of BGC's strategic direction.
  • Train, mentor, and supervise the work of junior through senior staff.
  • Act as a project director and technical lead/reviewer for tailings and mine waste projects.
  • Author, co-author, and review reports.
  • Present technical content to various stakeholders including clients, regulators, and independent technical review boards.
  • Travel as required to support project work.
  • Organize and supervise field programs, including: site investigation, construction, and dam safety inspections.
  • Help promote BGC's vision, values, and culture amongst BGC staff and clients.

Required Education, Experience & Competencies


  • Undergraduate degree in Civil, Geotechnical, or Geological Engineering.
  • Greater than 20 years of relevant work experience.
  • Registered as a Professional Engineer in the United States.
  • Leadership, analytical, and project management skills.
  • A commitment to technical excellence.
  • Excellent communication skills (verbal and written).
  • Experience in all phases of large tailings and mine waste projects: investigation, design, construction, operations, and closure.


Position Requirements


Drug & Alcohol Testing

To ensure we meet our client's compliance requirements and our workplace health and safety commitments, BGC has a drug and alcohol policy that applies to this position. The policy states that an employee may be required to take a drug and alcohol test prior to engaging in field work. This testing could be requested within an employee's first week or in the future, as required. It is important to note that some clients also require random drug and alcohol testing, and/or testing in the event of a health and safety accident or incident.


Driver's License

BGC requires that employees have a valid driver's license, and that employees can drive a field pickup truck. Upon hiring, BGC will require a motor vehicle record to allow for a safety review of your driving history.


Travel and Vaccination

BGC is committed to maintaining a safe work environment to ensure the health and safety of employees while on business travel and during field assignments. To meet travel and client requirements, employees may be required to receive vaccinations such as yellow fever, COVID-19, malaria, etc. If you require an accommodation or wish to discuss your situation, please contactHuman Resources. BGC requiresthat you have a current passport for this position.


Company Benefits


BGC offersour employees the following:

  • Our 'One Team' culture supporting health, wellness, safety and diversity
  • Comprehensive benefits package
    • Health, Dental and Vision coverage
    • STD, LTD, Life, AD&D and Business Travel Insurance
    • Employee Assistance Program
    • Paid Time Off: Vacation, Sick, Holidays
  • Parental leave top ups
  • Professional development and mentoring opportunities
  • Flat management structure
  • Flexible workplace with office and home arrangements
  • Social and wellness activities
  • Casual and professional work environment


Wage Range


The estimated base salary range for this position is $175,000 - $250,000 USD per annum, however base pay will be commensurate with job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. BGC's compensation package also includes a discretionary bonus plan, training allowance, and comprehensive medical and dental plan.


Disclosures


(1) At BGC, we use Artificial Intelligence to streamline parts of the recruitment process, however all decisions about candidate selection and advancement continue to be made by our hiring team.


(2) This posting reflects expertise that we are open to considering on an ongoing basis, as part of our commitment to growth and expanding our capabilities.


(3) This posting will remain open on a continuous basis and may close without notice.


(4) Privacy Notice: By submitting an application you are consenting to BGC Engineering Inc. using and storing provided information about you for monitoring purposes relating to your application or future employment.


BGC is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. If you need assistance or an accommodation with you application, please contact our HR Team at humanresources@bgcengineering.ca