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Surface Mining Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

... and other mining facilities. * Design and specify electrical reticulation systems for surface and underground mines, including high-voltage (HV) and low-voltage (LV) distribution networks ...

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Surface Mining information

What is surface mining?

Surface mining is a method of extracting minerals located close to the Earth's surface, as opposed to underground mining. It involves removing soil, rock, and other materials (overburden) to access the desired mineral deposits. Common types of surface mining include open-pit mining, strip mining, and quarrying. This method is widely used for mining coal, iron, copper, and various other minerals. Surface mining is generally more cost-effective and safer than underground mining, but it can have significant environmental impacts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in surface mining, and why are they important?

To thrive in Surface Mining, you need knowledge of mining techniques, equipment operation, and safety protocols, often supported by a high school diploma or technical certification. Familiarity with heavy machinery, GPS surveying systems, and mining-specific software like MineSight or Surpac is typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and strong problem-solving abilities are vital soft skills in this field. These skills ensure efficient, safe extraction of resources while minimizing environmental impact and maintaining regulatory compliance.

What are some common challenges faced by surface mining professionals, and how can they be addressed on the job?

Surface mining professionals often encounter challenges such as managing site safety, adapting to changing weather conditions, and ensuring compliance with environmental regulations. To address these, it's important to follow strict safety protocols, participate in regular training, and maintain clear communication with supervisors and team members. Additionally, staying up-to-date with the latest industry practices and technology helps professionals operate more efficiently and mitigate risks on the job.

What is the difference between Surface Mining vs Underground Mining?

AspectSurface MiningUnderground Mining
Work EnvironmentOpen pits, exposed to weatherUnderground tunnels and shafts
Required CertificationsMining safety training, heavy equipment operationMining safety training, underground safety protocols
Industry UsageCommon in coal, copper, and gold miningUsed for minerals like gold, silver, and zinc
Work ConditionsOutdoor, physically demanding, high visibilityConfined spaces, potentially hazardous

Surface Mining involves extracting minerals from open pits, offering outdoor work with heavy machinery. Underground Mining requires working in tunnels below the surface, with safety protocols for confined spaces. Both roles demand safety certifications and are vital in the mining industry, but differ mainly in environment and method of extraction.

What are popular job titles related to Surface Mining jobs in Alberta?

For Surface Mining jobs in Alberta, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Surface Mining jobs in Alberta look for?

The top searched job categories for Surface Mining jobs in Alberta are:

Infographic showing various Surface Mining job openings in Alberta as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Intermediate Consultant (Mining Engineer)

Okane Consultants

Calgary, AB โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Are you someone passionate about reshaping the mining industry from early-stage planning to relinquishment and making a positive impact through mine planning work? 



If that sounds like you, we’d love to meet you. We are growing and are on the lookout for an ambitious Intermediate or Junior Consultant (Mining Engineer) to join our dynamic team. Come be a part of a visionary journey that is all about making a positive impact. This role is open to our Calgary office.  


At Okane, we believe that integrated mine and closure planning is just the starting point to ‘Help Create a Better Tomorrow’. We work with mining companies to return land responsibly and safely, enabling what comes next to serve both people and the planet. Our work challenges the status quo — we advocate for meaningful partnerships with communities, including Indigenous rightsholders, and design solutions that create lasting financial, environmental, and social value. From early-stage planning through to relinquishment, we’re helping reshape the future of mining — and we’re looking for people who want to be part of that transformation. 


Responsibilities:

In this role, you will work closely with our mining clients and technical teams on projects that span diverse sites with unique challenges to develop practical solutions for mine planning and closure. 


Your work will include: 

  • You will support the mine planning team and other technical disciplines by providing guidance, training, and mentorship. Your role will involve helping the team to develop and follow core processes and uphold technical standards. Also, you'll promote a culture of safety and well-being for yourself and your colleagues through active leadership in safety practices. 
  • You will utilize your understanding of mining engineering principles to aid in the creation of design surfaces, schedules, and cost estimates for the life of mine, tailings management, and closure plans, ensuring alignment with industry best practices. Additionally, you will apply basic mine planning concepts to support the development of closure plans. 
  • You will be responsible for supporting the proposal development process by outlining work scopes and estimating both project schedules and costs. Also, you will prepare, review, and authenticate advanced technical documentation and reports to guarantee their technical quality and assurance. 
  • You will be involved with all aspects of projects, including overseeing the budget, scope, and schedule. You will also facilitate workshops and conduct risk assessments and analyses with various stakeholders and external project support. 
  • You will interact competently with both internal and external stakeholders who possess varying levels of expertise. Developing and maintaining strong relationships with clients is crucial, as it helps foster existing relationships and can lead to generating new leads, opportunities, or referrals. 
  • You will help review mine planning investigations to support tailings and mine projects, including site investigations and monitoring data. Experience with trade-off studies and resource evaluation techniques is advantageous.


Expectations for this Role:

  • You’ll build strong professional relationships with clients and actively engage in business development initiatives, exploring innovative opportunities beyond your project scope. Your insights will be vital as you communicate with our technical leaders. 
  • We take a holistic approach to decision-making, ensuring we consider financial, social, and environmental impacts on Okane. Plus, you will have the opportunity to mentor junior staff and help them grow! 
  • In our fast-paced environment, your adaptability and prioritization skills will shine as you navigate unexpected challenges. Lastly, you'll engage in our critical thinking process, evaluating and recommending clever solutions in your work.  
  • You model Okane’s Core Values in every client interaction and are a trusted voice within the team. 
  • You actively integrate health, safety and environmental considerations into every aspect of your work. This may look like completing hazard assessments and other HSE project requirements, following internal procedures and policies, participating in safety training, and promoting a safety culture. 
  • You are comfortable working flexibly across time zones and travelling from time to time.  


Qualifications:

  • We're on the lookout for an enthusiastic individual with knowledge of mine planning first principles. Experience in mine and/or tailings planning is an asset!   
  • You have experience in the operational or closure phases within the mining industry.   
  • Familiarity with regulatory and legislative frameworks is definitely an asset and will help you thrive here.   
  • We’d love to see strong project management skills and an eagerness to lead interdisciplinary project teams.   
  • If you’re comfortable coordinating with peers and clients across different time zones, that's a plus!  
  • You have skills in mine planning software in either Hexagon MinePlan and/or Deswik. CAD.   
  • We really value critical thinkers who possess leadership skills at both the strategic and tactical levels.   
  • Experience in both operating mines and consulting would make you a valuable asset to the team! 
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential, especially if you have experience with proposals, technical reports, and regulatory submissions.   
  • A willingness to travel for workshops, client meetings, and site visits when needed.  
  • A tertiary qualification in Mining Engineering is essential, You must be registered as a Professional Engineer or Engineer-in-Training with APEGA or can transfer from another jurisdiction.


Why Join Okane?

At Okane, we're committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace, where every individual is valued for their unique contributions. Our dedicated teams span across the globe, connecting people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. 


Our workplace culture is defined by the everyday behaviours of our team and driven by our Core Values: Passionate, Thoughtful & Caring, Smart & Clever, Positive and Humble. We believe in flexibility, work-life balance, and an open-door approach to communication.  


We believe in personal and professional development, offering opportunities for continuous learning and growth. At Okane, we foster the opportunity for everyone to grow and develop their skills that align with their career path. As we continue to expand our global presence, we're looking for individuals who share our values and are dedicated to making a positive impact in the world. 


How to Apply:

If you’re ready to make a meaningful impact in the mining industry and contribute to sustainable land stewardship, we’d love to hear from you. Please submit your resume and a cover letter by August 17th  detailing your experience and why you’re a great fit for this role.  Please note that only those candidates who are selected will be contacted.  


If you require an adjustment during the recruitment/interview process, please let the HR team know, and we will work with you to meet your needs. For more information about Inclusion, Diversity & Equity at Okane, please click here: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion • Okane Consultants.