Principal Mining Engineer

OceanaGold is a growing mid-tier gold and copper producer listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX). With four operating mines—Haile in the USA, Didipio in the Philippines, and Macraes and Waihi in New Zealand—we are committed to safe, responsible mining that generates strong returns and supports sustainable development.

Our purpose is mining gold for a better future. The gold, copper, and silver we produce power renewable energy, life-saving medical devices, and the technology that connects communities. Beyond this, our operations drive economic growth and improve health and education outcomes in the regions we serve, supporting over 3,700 direct jobs globally.

Guided by our values—Care, Respect, Integrity, Performance, and Teamwork—we strive to be a trusted company people want to work for, partner with, and invest in, creating lasting value for all our stakeholders.

Our Waihi Operation in the North Island of New Zealand is an underground operation. A recent consent to develop the previous Martha mine has provided our project with an extension of life providing our 350 staff and contractors, and the people of Waihi, an assurance that we plan to be here for the long-term.

Are you tired of FIFO? Missing family, friends and milestone celebrations regularly?
Imagine having a true work-life balance located in the stunning region of Waihi, NZ. No more FIFO! No more extreme heat waves! Experience the unbeatable lifestyle of a stunning residential mining location, just a short distance away from the most incredible beaches and awe-inspiring scenery. Your days off are available for hiking, adventuring, fishing, and skiing in winter.

This is an exciting opportunity to join our Projects team as we progress to the feasibility study stage for a new gold mine at Wharekirauponga, 10km north from the existing minesite in Waihi. A rich gold deposit of over 1.5m ounces of gold has been identified and the project is on the government's list of projects to be fast tracked through the consenting process.

You will be primarily responsible for all aspects related to the project site investigations, mine design, mine infrastructure planning and decline development for the underground mine.  This key role ensures that all aspects of site investigation, mine design and initial development  is carried out as efficiently as possible from a technical perspective. 

Key responsibilities:

• Project manage studies involving a range of disciplines of internal experts and external consultants to produce optimal project outcomes
• Support the Underground Development Manager with mine design, infrastructure planning and production schedules.
• Carry out mine engineering studies on initial to advanced targets to increase Reserves.
• Develop optimised documented Life of Mine plans for future underground operations, including material movements, equipment requirements, staffing levels, capital and operating costs.
• Manage mine infrastructure design such as ventilation and water management.
• Prepare mining schedules for use in life of mine planning, studies, quarterly forecasts and budgets.
• Maintain an activity-based cost budgeting system.
• Complete internal technical audits and prepare site for corporate technical audits
• Prepare annual Reserve manual and Reserve statements.
• Complete stope designs to a high standard ensuring metal recovery maximised as efficiently as possible.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory bodies and consent conditions.

• A recognised degree in Mining Engineering degree or accepted equivalent.
• Full and current driver licence, ability to drive manual vehicles is preferred.                 
• Minimum of 10 years post graduate experience in a mining environment with significant underground mining experience.
• Experience in the use of the following (or recognised equivalent):
  • Deswik Suite (UG mine design, scheduling, MSO, etc.),
  • VentSim
  • PumpSim
  • Microsoft Office Suite
• First-hand experience in underground operations, development projects, and studies including mine design, scheduling, and ventilation. 

WHAT'S ON OFFER:

• Residential role - live and work in Waihi, the gateway to the stunning Coromandel region.
• Mon- Fri 9-day fortnight, enjoy a "long weekend" every other week.
• Career Development Opportunities.
• Competitive salary, car, bonus and benefits.
• Free Gym Membership .
• BP Fuel card discount.
• Living Our Values recognition program.
• Access to OceanaGold Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Exceptional working environment where people are valued and respected.
   

YOU MATTER: OceanaGold is committed to providing equal employment opportunities. We believe a variety of perspectives are not only welcome – they are essential to our success. Should you require any assistance applying for this opportunity, please contact us at [email protected]

**Applications close 14 May 2025. Shortlisting will commence immediately. Please note that a valid New Zealand working Visa will be required for this position. 

PLEASE NOTE: APPLICATIONS FROM AGENCIES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED