Drill & Blast Engineer

Job Description

Under the direction of the Chief Mine Engineer, the Drill & Blast Engineer shall be responsible for overseeing and optimizing drilling & blasting operations in the open pit at Round Mountain. The successful candidate shall coordinate closely with the Short Range Planners, Drill & Blast Planner and Technical Services department more broadly, as well as the Drill & Blast Operations team, to ensure safe and efficient mining in the open pit.

• Utilize geological data, mine plans and survey information to develop blast designs and shot timing, and release patterns as required for execution.
• Continuously assess and optimize blasting parameters, including pattern design/spacing, hole depth/orientation, shot timing, explosive types, etc. to optimize fragmentation and ensure geotechnical pitwall compliance.
• Collect and interpret technical data such as blast-induced vibration and utilize findings to inform pattern design decisions and improvements, with specific focus on high-risk sectors of the open pit.
• Lead regularly scheduled blasting optimization workshops and all subsequent improvement initiatives.
• Engage with external parties (or internal subject matter experts) for periodic best-practice audits and specific technical consulting as required.
• Develop blasting “mid-range plan” to proactively identify and mitigate risks through pattern design in the 3-month window.
• Develop and assume ownership of blasting sign-off procedure.
• Assist in developing drill & blast budgets and operational cost reviews vs. budgeted, as required.
• Ensure drill & blast planning complies with applicable safety regulations, environmental standards, standard operating procedures and company best practices.
• Work safely at all times and ensure our drill & blast planning supports safe production. Identify, report and work with management to correct any hazards.
• Promote and engage strongly with a pro‑active safety culture.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mining Engineering or similar field is required.
• 3-5 years of planning and/or drill & blast experience in hard-rock, open pit mine operations is strongly preferred.
• Proficiency with mining software packages, other CAD packages and specific drill & blast planning modules is strongly preferred.
• Strong working knowledge of mine operations and drill & blast principles.
• Comfortable working collaboratively in a team environment.
• Strong engagement with technical details, self-motivated to learn and continuously improve our drill & blast practices.
• Must be presently authorized to work in the United States on a full‑time basis.
• Valid driver’s license is required.

Reports to the Chief Mine Engineer

US work permit required