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Tailings Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ASARCO is seeking a Responsible Tailings and Water Operations Engineer (RTWOE) to oversee mine tailings storage facilities (TSFs) and related water management systems at the Ray and Hayden operations.

Relocation assistance available, with additional funds provided to cover tax liabilities POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES The Tailings & Water Engineer works closely with the Sr. Tailings and Water Engineer ...

Senior Engineer, Tailings and Closure

Spokane, WA

$105.70K - $145.10K/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 ...

9.5. R&D Engineer

Woburn, MA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

About Phoenix Tailings Phoenix Tailings is a rapidly growing clean mining and metals production ... Phoenix Tailings is looking for an R&D Engineer to support the development and optimization of ...

About Phoenix Tailings Phoenix Tailings is a rapidly-growing clean mining and metals production ... This engineer will lead the design, testing, and deployment of electrical power and instrumentation ...

4.4. Senior Production Engineer

Exeter, NH · On-site

$106.30K - $146K/yr

About Phoenix Tailings Phoenix Tailings is a rapidly-growing clean mining and metals production ... You'll work directly on the floor with operators, engineers, and plant leadership to turn ...

9.5. R&D Engineer

Woburn, MA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

About Phoenix Tailings Phoenix Tailings is a rapidly growing clean mining and metals production ... Phoenix Tailings is looking for an R&D Engineer to support the development and optimization of ...

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Tailings Engineer information

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$33K

$89.2K

$142K

How much do tailings engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for tailings engineer in the United States is $89,183.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,500.00 and $109,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Tailings Engineer job?

A Tailings Engineer is responsible for the design, management, and monitoring of tailings storage facilities (TSFs) to ensure safety, environmental compliance, and operational efficiency. They assess geotechnical stability, water balance, and potential environmental impacts while working closely with mine operations, geologists, and environmental teams. Their role includes developing tailings management plans, conducting risk assessments, and implementing best practices for sustainable waste disposal.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Tailings Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tailings Engineer, you need a strong background in civil, geotechnical, or mining engineering, typically with a relevant degree and experience in mine waste management. Familiarity with engineering design software (such as AutoCAD, GeoStudio, or FLAC), knowledge of regulatory guidelines, and, in some regions, professional engineering certification are highly valued. Exceptional problem-solving, project management, and effective communication skills are essential for overseeing projects and engaging with multidisciplinary teams. These abilities are crucial to ensure the safe, environmentally responsible management of tailings facilities and regulatory compliance.

What are some common challenges faced by Tailings Engineers in their day-to-day work?

Tailings Engineers frequently deal with the complexities of designing and maintaining safe tailings storage facilities while ensuring compliance with evolving environmental and safety regulations. They often need to address unexpected issues such as changes in weather, geotechnical instability, or rapid operational expansions, requiring quick problem-solving and adaptive thinking. Coordinating with mining operations, environmental specialists, and regulators adds another layer of complexity to project management. Despite these challenges, the role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on environmental stewardship and workplace safety in the mining industry.
What cities are hiring for Tailings Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Tailings Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Tailings Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Tailings Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Tailings Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Tailings Engineer jobs include:
Tailings Water Engineer

Tailings Water Engineer

ASARCO LLC

Kearny, AZ • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


ASARCO rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

20th of 29 rated mining


Job description

Job Description:
ASARCO is seeking a Responsible Tailings and Water Operations Engineer (RTWOE) to oversee mine tailings storage facilities (TSFs) and related water management systems at the Ray and Hayden operations. This role is accountable for the integrity of all active, inactive, and closed facilities; while ensuring safety, compliance, and long-term risk management. The position will oversee the design, construction, operation, and monitoring of TSFs and water systems to meet ICMM, GISTM, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001 standards. This is a field-intensive role requiring significant on-site presence to support safe operations.
The RTWOE will report to the corporate technical services group with direct communication to the Accountable Executive (AE), ensuring governance, independent risk management, and adherence to ASARCO's tailings policies and commitments. Close working relationships will be maintained with the Engineer-of-Record (EoR), Regional Geotechnical Manager, Tailings Superintendent, and the Corporate Water Management Team.
Key Responsibilities:
  1. Tailings and Water Management
  • Serve as the Responsible Tailings Facility Engineer for Ray and Hayden operations, ensuring the stability and integrity of TSFs.
  • Oversee tailings deposition and water management plans, including strategies for water removal, storage, and reclamation.
  • Conduct risk assessments and ensure proper hazard identification, mitigation strategies, and safety controls for TSFs and water systems.
  • Challenge and review recommendations from the Engineer of Record (EoR) and ensure alignment with GISTM and ICMM governance best practices.
  • Develop and maintain Emergency Response Plans and Operations, Maintenance, and Surveillance (OMS) Manuals and ensure site adherence.
  • Oversee the monitoring, instrumentation planning, data interpretation, QA/QC procedures for tailings and water management.

  1. Compliance and Governance
  • Ensure strict compliance with ICMM, ISO 14001, ISO 45001, and ADEQ BADCT regulations.
  • Maintain direct reporting to ASARCO's technical governance group while ensuring close collaboration with site management.
  • Coordinate and participate in inspections and meetings by third parties such as Independent Tailings Review Board (ITRB), Engineer-of-Record, State agencies, and water regulatory bodies and provide technical leadership and ensuring third-party recommendations are implemented.
  • Oversee crisis response planning and emergency preparedness for tailings and water-related risks.
  • Track and report Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) related to both tailings and water management. Collaborate with the Tailings Superintendents and the corporate Water Management Team to develop and implement action plans for resolving issues.
  1. Technical Oversight and Review
  • Provide technical review and oversight on TSF and water system projects conducted internally or by external consultants and contractors.
  • Ensure long-term risk management strategies are in place, extending beyond day-to-day operations to include climate change resilience and closure planning.
  • Use advanced water modeling tools to analyze current and future water storage conditions, optimizing TSF performance.
  1. Training and Capacity Building
  • Develop and implement structured training programs for TSF operators and engineers, ensuring alignment with GISTM training requirements.
  • Contribute to succession planning by mentoring junior engineers and ensuring long-term technical capability in tailings and water management.
  • Maintain a strong presence in industry forums and internal workshops, continuously improving best practices.

Qualifications & Experience:
  • Minimum of five years of experience in tailings and/or water management engineering in a mining environment.
  • Technical expertise in TSF stability analysis, soil/rock mechanics, hydrology, and geotechnical engineering.
  • Strong leadership and governance understanding, with experience in regulatory compliance and third-party audits.

Computer Software Skills:
  • Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
  • AutoCAD Civil3D
  • Water modeling software (e.g., GoldSim, HEC-RAS) preferred
  • Minebridge Muk3D preferred

Education & Certifications:
  • B.S. Degree in Mining, Civil, Geotechnical, or Environmental Engineering (or a related field).
  • EIT required, with PE certification, to be obtained within a 5 year period.