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Tailings Process Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead Process Engineer

Elko, NV · On-site

$99K - $129K/yr

This Opportunity WSP is currently initiating a search for a Lead Process Engineer for our Elko, NV ... tailings disposal systems, underground or surface mine infrastructure, material handling and ...

4.6. Manufacturing Engineer I

Exeter, NH · On-site

$74K - $95K/yr

Phoenix Tailings is looking for a Manufacturing Engineer I who is excited to turn innovative process technology into reliable, repeatable, and scalable manufacturing operations.In this role, you will ...

Lead Process Engineer

Elko, NV · On-site

$99K - $129K/yr

This Opportunity WSP is currently initiating a search for a Lead Process Engineer for our Elko, NV ... tailings disposal systems, underground or surface mine infrastructure, material handling and ...

Lead Process Engineer

Elko, NV · On-site

$99K - $129K/yr

This Opportunity WSP is currently initiating a search for a Lead Process Engineer for our Elko, NV ... tailings disposal systems, underground or surface mine infrastructure, material handling and ...

4.2. Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Exeter, NH · On-site

$92K - $126K/yr

Phoenix Tailings is looking for a Senior Manufacturing Engineer to take technical ownership of complex manufacturing processes, equipment, and scale-up efforts at our Exeter facility. This role will ...

4.2. Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Exeter, NH · On-site

$92K - $126K/yr

Phoenix Tailings is looking for a Senior Manufacturing Engineer to take technical ownership of complex manufacturing processes, equipment, and scale-up efforts at our Exeter facility. This role will ...

4.2. Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Exeter, NH · On-site

$92K - $126K/yr

Phoenix Tailings is looking for a Senior Manufacturing Engineer to take technical ownership of complex manufacturing processes, equipment, and scale-up efforts at our Exeter facility. This role will ...

4.2. Senior Manufacturing Engineer

Exeter, NH · On-site

$92K - $126K/yr

Phoenix Tailings is looking for a Senior Manufacturing Engineer to take technical ownership of complex manufacturing processes, equipment, and scale-up efforts at our Exeter facility. This role will ...

5.2. Mechanical Engineer II

Exeter, NH · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Phoenix Tailings is looking for a Mechanical Engineer II to help take next-generation processing equipment from concept to deployment. In this role, you will design, build, test, validate, and ...

On-Call Lead Process Engineer

Elko, NV · On-site

$99K - $129K/yr

This Opportunity WSP is currently initiating a search for an On-Call Lead Process Engineer for our ... tailings disposal systems, underground or surface mine infrastructure, material handling and ...

5.2. Mechanical Engineer II

Exeter, NH · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

Phoenix Tailings is looking for a Mechanical Engineer II to help take next-generation processing equipment from concept to deployment. In this role, you will design, build, test, validate, and ...

Showing results 41-60

Tailings Process Engineer information

See salary details

$49.5K

$92K

$142.5K

How much do tailings process engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for tailings process engineer in the United States is $92,018.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,500.00 and $103,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Tailings Process Engineer do?

A Tailings Process Engineer is responsible for designing, managing, and optimizing the processes involved in handling and disposing of mining tailings, which are the materials left over after extracting valuable minerals. Their role includes ensuring the safe storage of tailings, minimizing environmental impact, and maintaining compliance with environmental regulations. They also develop and implement strategies to improve tailings management efficiency and sustainability, often working closely with environmental scientists and site managers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Tailings Process Engineer?

To thrive as a Tailings Process Engineer, you need a solid background in chemical, mining, or metallurgical engineering, often supported by a bachelor's degree and relevant industry experience. Familiarity with tailings management systems, process simulation software, and regulatory compliance frameworks is typically required. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills help you address complex operational challenges and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible management of mining waste materials.

What are some typical challenges faced by a Tailings Process Engineer, and how can they be addressed?

Tailings Process Engineers often encounter challenges related to maintaining the safety and stability of tailings storage facilities while optimizing water recovery and minimizing environmental impact. They must stay current with evolving regulations and best practices, as well as coordinate closely with geotechnical, environmental, and operations teams to ensure compliance and efficiency. Effective communication, rigorous monitoring, and a proactive approach to problem-solving are key strategies for addressing these challenges and ensuring both operational success and environmental stewardship.

What is the difference between Tailings Process Engineer vs Mining Process Engineer?

AspectTailings Process EngineerMining Process Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Mining, Chemical, or Metallurgical Engineering; certifications in process safetyBachelor's in Mining, Chemical, or Metallurgical Engineering; certifications in process safety
Work EnvironmentDesigning and optimizing tailings storage and disposal facilities, often in remote mining sitesDeveloping and improving mineral processing methods at processing plants or sites
Employer & Industry UsageMining companies, environmental agencies, consulting firmsMining companies, mineral processing plants, consulting firms

Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, focusing on process design and safety. The main difference lies in their focus: Tailings Process Engineers specialize in managing waste disposal and tailings facilities, while Mining Process Engineers concentrate on mineral extraction and processing techniques.

More about Tailings Process Engineer jobs

What are popular job titles related to Tailings Process Engineer jobs?

For Tailings Process Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Tailings Process Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,018 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Lead Process Engineer

Elko, NV • On-site

WSP
Civil Engineering Construction • 10K+ employees

$99K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 3 days ago


WSP rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 69 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

This Opportunity

WSP is currently initiating a search for a Lead Process Engineer for our Elko, NV office.  The following locations will also be considered: Reno, NV.  Be involved in projects with our Mining Team and be a part of a growing organization that meets our client's objectives and solves their challenges. #GlobalMining

The Lead Process Engineer provides technical leadership and project coordination for underground mining projects with a primary focus on paste backfill systems, mine planning, and mine infrastructure development. This role is responsible for integrating engineering disciplines, coordinating project activities, developing mine plans, optimizing paste backfill operations, and ensuring safe, efficient, and cost-effective project delivery.

The position serves as a key technical resource supporting feasibility studies, detailed engineering, construction, commissioning, and operational improvement initiatives.
 

Your Impact

  • Lead design, optimization, and operation of underground paste backfill systems. 
  • Develop backfill strategies to support mine sequencing and ground control requirements. 
  • Coordinate paste plant design, distribution systems, reticulation networks, and underground placement plans. 
  • Evaluate backfill recipes, binder optimization, rheology, and material performance. 
  • Support geotechnical teams in stope design and extraction sequencing. 
  • Monitor paste fill performance and identify opportunities for operational improvements. 
  • Review and approve paste backfill engineering deliverables and technical reports. 
  • Participate in commissioning and performance testing of paste plants and distribution systems.
  • Integrate paste fill constraints into production schedules. 
  • Support reserve and resource conversion activities. 
  • Conduct scenario analysis and trade-off studies. 
  • Prepare/Perform technical inputs for PEA, PFS, FS, and detailed engineering design work.
  • Coordinate multidisciplinary engineering teams including Mining, Geotechnical, Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Process, Construction and Operations. 
  • Manage technical interfaces between owner, EPCM contractor, consultants, and vendors. 
  • Monitor project progress against scope, schedule, cost, and quality objectives. 
  • Facilitate project meetings and technical workshops. 
  • Support risk assessments and mitigation planning. 
  • Track action items and ensure timely resolution of project issues.
  • Promote a strong safety culture across all projects and operational activities. 
  • Ensure compliance with MSHA regulations, WSP standards, Environmental requirements and Ground control management plans.
  • Participate in hazard identification and risk management activities. 
  • Conduct field inspections and safety audits.
  • Write and review proposals technical memorandum and reports
  • Perform Project Management or Engineering Management duties as required
  • Perform audits and troubleshooting of existing mine infrastructure 
  • May be required to provide on-site support supervision in construction setting
  • Ability to drive plant commissioning activities 
  • Exercise responsible and ethical decision-making regarding company funds, resources and conduct, and adhere to WSP's Code of Conduct and related policies and procedures.
  • Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.

Who You Are

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in mining or metallurgical engineering
  • 10+ years of relevant consulting or operating experience in a mining setting 
  • Demonstrated background in elements of design or operation of backfill plants (hydraulic fill, paste fill, cemented rockfill) plant, surface tailings disposal systems, underground or surface mine infrastructure, material handling and comminution processes
  • Must successfully complete and pass WSP's Motor Vehicle screening. 
  • Highly effective interpersonal and communication skills when interacting with others, expressing ideas effectively and professionally to an engineering and non-engineering audience.
  • Demonstrated high-level of self-leadership with attention to detail, multi-tasking, and prioritization of responsibilities in a dynamic work environment.
  • Works independently with minimal oversight and provides guidance and leadership to junior team or project members, with strict adherence to QA/QC.
  • Highly proficient with technical writing, office automation, discipline-specific design software (i.e. UG Design Tools, Microsoft Office, Microsoft Project and general computer usage)
  • Demonstrates a 'Safety First" focus attitude
  • Strong organizational skills
  • Well-developed critical thinking and problem-solving skills required to apply technical knowledge to reach conclusions from testing results, data collation, computations, statistical analysis and arriving at the most effective, economical, and logical solution.
  • Demonstrated effectiveness at coordinating and assertively directing subcontractors and others to consistently complete tasks safely and efficiently.
  • Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP's health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.
  • Ability to work schedules conducive to project-specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek.
  • Strong people skills and an ability to work in a team environment
  • Travel to project sites as required

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About WSP

WSP USA is the U.S. operating company of WSP, one of the world's leading engineering and professional services firms. Dedicated to serving local communities, we are engineers, planners, technical experts, strategic advisors and construction management professionals. WSP USA designs lasting solutions in the buildings, transportation, energy, water and environment markets. With more than 15,000 employees in over 300 offices across the U.S., we partner with our clients to help communities prosper.

www.wsp.com

WSP provides a flexible and agile workplace model while meeting client needs. Employees are also afforded a comprehensive suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, and retirement savings focused on providing health and financial stability throughout the employee's career.

At WSP, we want to give our employees the challenges they seek to grow their careers and knowledge base. Your daily contributions to your team will be essential in meeting client objectives, goals and challenges. Are you ready to get started?

WSP USA (and all of its U.S. companies) is an Equal Opportunity Employer Race/Age/Color/Religion/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/National Origin/Disability or Protected Veteran Status.

The selected candidate must be authorized to work in the United States.

NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES:

WSP does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or other staffing services. Unsolicited resumes include any resume or hiring document sent to WSP in the absence of a signed Service Agreement where WSP has expressly requested recruitment/staffing services specific to the position at hand.  Any unsolicited resumes, including those submitted to hiring managers or other business leaders, will become the property of WSP and WSP will have the right to hire that candidate without reservation - no fee or other compensation will be owed or paid to the recruiter, employment agency, or other staffing service. 


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