Senior Geotechnical Engineer

Job description

At First Quantum, we free the talent of our people by taking a very different approach which is underpinned by a very different, very definite culture – the “First Quantum Way”.

Working with us is not like working anywhere else, which is why we recruit people who will take a bolder, smarter approach to spot opportunities, solve problems and deliver results.

Our culture is all about encouraging you to think independently and to challenge convention to deliver the best result. That’s how we continue to achieve extraordinary things in extraordinary locations.

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Job Purpose:

As a key member of the TSF & Dams team, the Senior Geotechnical Engineer is responsible to carry out all work in compliance to relevant procedures and Zambian regulatory requirements. The Senior Geotechnical Engineer reports to the Technical Superintendent, TSF & Dams, and will work closely with the Senior Specialist TSF & Dams to ensure daily activity of the TSF & Dams technical section.

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Specific Job Responsibilities:

The duties for the role will include but are not limited to the following:

Geotechnical and geophysical data interpretation

Review and interpret Site Investigation (SI) data, including CPTu (Cone Penetration Testing) and laboratory results (triaxial, direct simple shear, CSSM tests), to define shear strength parameters for in-house models.
Seismic Evaluation: Evaluate liquefaction potential and shear wave velocity based on in-situ tests (CPTu, SCPTu).
Analyze geophysical data based on ERT profiles and borehole logs.

Advanced Stability Modeling & Validation

Perform in-house Limit Equilibrium (LE) and Finite Element Method (FEM) analyses to verify the stability of the TSF and water dams’ embankments under various loading conditions (Static, dynamic and post-seismic) in compliance with international standards ANCOLD, ICOLD and CDA.
Perform seepage and stability analyses using analytical and numerical modelling to support construction and operation progress, as well as to support TARP development and update for TSF and Dams.

Monitoring and TARP

Pore Pressure Characterization: Analyze piezometric data instruments to develop accurate phreatic surface inputs for stability models.
Real-time Monitoring: Oversight of Standpipe Piezometers, automated piezometers, Inclinometers, Tiltmeters, Fiber optic and Satellite InSAR data.
Ensure TARP for TSF and dams is up to date.
Leading Trigger Action Response Plan (TARP) activations.

Geotechnical Investigations

Supervise geotechnical investigation drilling and ensure quality core is recovered with good quality orientation markings.
Ensure drilling sites are prepared in advance and all requirements for each drill site are in place.
Carry out lithological and structural logging of geotechnical boreholes on the drilling site or in the core shed. Experience with geological/geotechnical logging is an asset.
Assist during sampling and ensure samples are in good condition prior to being sent to laboratory.

Construction & QA/QC Oversight

Ensure that the “As-Built” drawings match the IFC drawings. Otherwise, re-run stability models to approve design changes.
Ensure QAQC documents are well organized and up to date.

Site inspections

Lead dam safety inspections and undertake regular site inspections for TSF and Dams.

Liaise with earthworks team to prepare programs for housekeeping and rehabilitation works, as well as to respond to site observations communicated by EoR, Dam review engineer and Independent Reviewers.

Regulatory & GISTM Compliance

GISTM Alignment: Prepare and update deliverables to support the alignment with Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management, specifically regarding Topics 2&3.

Job Specific Competencies:

Proficiency in slope stability softwares (e.g., GeoStudio Seepw/Slopew, RocScience Slide, Plaxis) required. Familiarity with gINT.
Able to clearly demonstrate the aptitude to drive a light vehicle and hold a current Zambian driver’s license or be able to obtain one.
Be physically fit and be able to pass a pre-employment medical examination.
Must have excellent written and oral communication skills in English.
Proven ability to deliver results and act as a change agent.
Demonstrated application of continuous improvement ideas.
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Key Job Attributes:

Must have problem-solving skills
Must have excellent organization and managerial skills and a methodical approach to work
Must have ability to think methodically and to manage projects
Must have the ability to work to deadlines and within budget
Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills
Must have excellent supervisory and leadership skills
Must be able to work without supervision  Must have a confident decision-making ability
Must be detailed oriented

Experience required to perform in this job:

A minimum of 10 years of experience in designing, constructing, and managing tailing and water dams in the mining industry.

Qualifications:

A Bachelor’s degree in mining engineering, civil engineering, environmental engineering, or a related field.
Master’s degree or equivalent will be an advantage
Qualification in critical state soil mechanics will be an advantage.
Registered member of the Engineering Institute of Zambia (EIZ) or equivalent
Ability to register as a member of the Engineering Registration Board of Zambia
ZAQA accredited certifications is a must.
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