Senior Open Pit Geotechnical Engineer – Pilbara Iron Ore

45 days left

Senior Open Pit Geotechnical Engineer – Pilbara Iron Ore

Job role insights

  • Date posted

    September 21, 2026

  • Closing date

    November 5, 2026

  • Location

    Pilbara

  • Salary

    $170,000 - $215,000 /year

  • Career level

    Senior Level

  • Qualification

    Bachelor of Geological Engineering or Geotechnical Engineering & AusIMM Member

  • Experience

    5+ Years

Description

Job Overview & Organization Mission

Manage rock mechanics, slope stability radars, and open-pit geotechnical risk on major iron ore operations in the Pilbara.

Rio Tinto is recruiting a Senior Geotechnical Engineer on an attractive FIFO roster (8:6) to our Greater Tom Price iron ore operations in the Pilbara. You will be responsible for real-time slope stability monitoring, wall design optimization, pit radar telemetry interpretation, and ensuring safe working conditions for high-tonnage autonomous haulage fleets.

As a key member of the team at Rio Tinto in Pilbara, WA, you will play a central role in driving excellence, upholding top-tier Australian industry standards, and contributing directly to the strategic milestones of one of the nation’s premier employers.

Position Quick Summary

  • Role Title: Senior Open Pit Geotechnical Engineer – Pilbara Iron Ore
  • Hiring Employer: Rio Tinto
  • Primary Location: Pilbara, WA, Australia
  • Employment Type: Full Time
  • Career Level: Senior Level
  • Target Remuneration: AU$170,000 – AU$215,000 per year + 11.5% Superannuation

Key Duties & Core Responsibilities

In this critical role, your operational duties and key performance responsibilities will encompass:

  • Analyze and: Analyze and interpret real-time geotechnical slope radar data (GroundProbe, IBIS).
  • Perform kinematic: Perform kinematic and limit equilibrium slope stability analyses using Rocscience (Slide, RS2, Dips).
  • Update geotechnical: Update geotechnical block models and structural domains based on diamond core logging.
  • Manage trigger: Manage trigger action response plans (TARPs) and provide geotechnical sign-off for active mining benches.
  • Conduct geotechnical: Conduct geotechnical risk audits and mentor site graduate engineers.

Required Qualifications, Licenses & Experience

To be successful in this position at Rio Tinto, candidates are expected to satisfy the following essential selection criteria:

  • Mandatory Qualification: Bachelor of Geological Engineering or Geotechnical Engineering & AusIMM Member.
  • Relevant Experience: Minimum 5+ Years of verified industry experience in Australia or recognized overseas equivalence.
  • Bachelor of Science or Engineering in Geotechnical Engineering, Mining Geology, or Civil.
  • 5+ years open-pit mining geotechnical experience (iron ore, coal, or hard rock).
  • Proven competence in slope stability monitoring technologies and radar telemetry.
  • Valid manual driver’s licence and ability to obtain a WA dangerous goods security card.

Core Competencies & Key Technical Proficiencies

The successful applicant will possess demonstrated capabilities across the following domain skill sets:

Slope Stability Analysis Rocscience Suite Ground Radar Monitoring Rock Mass Characterization Open Pit Mining

Salary, Compensation & Employee Benefits

At Rio Tinto, we understand that our people drive our achievements. An outstanding remuneration and wellbeing package is provided in line with Australian benchmarks:

  • Competitive Remuneration: AU$170,000 – AU$215,000 per year + standard Australian Superannuation (11.5%).
  • Competitive salary $170,000 – $215,000 + 11.5% super + site FIFO allowances.
  • Balanced 8 days on, 6 days off FIFO roster from Perth.
  • Private ensuite camp accommodation with gym, pool, and full dining facilities.
  • Leave Entitlements: 4 weeks annual leave (with 17.5% annual leave loading where applicable) plus 10 days paid personal/carer’s leave.
  • Flexible Work: Progressive work-life balance options with supportive corporate culture and leadership development pathways.

About the Employer: Rio Tinto

Rio Tinto is a global mining pioneer producing iron ore, aluminium, copper, and critical materials with major operations in the Pilbara.

Rio Tinto is deeply committed to building diverse, equitable, and culturally inclusive work environments. We proudly celebrate diversity and welcome applications from all qualified individuals including First Nations Australians, people with disabilities, and candidates from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Application Process & Next Steps

Applications for this position are currently open and being reviewed on a rolling basis. Suitable candidates are encouraged to apply as early as possible before the published closing date.

Please prepare an updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a tailored Cover Letter highlighting your relevant experience against the key selection criteria outlined above.

To proceed with your application, click the Apply on Employer Site button to access the official Rio Tinto careers gateway.

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