Role Title:Mine Development Planner
Reports to:Mine Planning Superintendent
Job Type:Full-time Regular
Location:Tucson, AZ
Purpose of Role:The Mine Development Planner (MDP) acts as the primary link between long-term strategic planning and physical site execution. The role is responsible for leading the "pioneering" planning phase, which involves overseeing the critical transition of raw terrain into a functional, large-scale open-pit mining operation.
ROLE ACCOUNTABILITIES:- Pioneering & Infrastructure: Oversee early-stage site preparation, including clearing, grubbing, topsoil management, and the strategic sequencing of haul roads, drainage systems, and waste rock dumps.
- Strategic Alignment: Develop 0-2 year schedules to ensure immediate "boots-on-the-ground" work aligns with Life of Mine (LOM) goals and does not interfere with future pit expansions.
- Water & Risk Management: Design essential diversion systems and drainage for year-round stability and ensure all initial ramps and catch benches meet strict geotechnical safety requirements.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all early development and earthworks comply with environmental permits and safety standards, such as MSHA or OSHA.
- Contractor Oversight: Manage specialized earthmoving contractors who are typically utilized during the early stages of mine development.
- Operational Liaison: Serve as a "translator" between the mine planning office and the field operations team to navigate unexpected geological or hydrological conditions.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION:- Education: Bachelor's Degree in Mining Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
- Experience: 5-8+ years of experience in large-scale open-pit mining.
- Technical Proficiency: Expertise in industry-standard mine planning software, specifically Deswik or Hexagon, and Civil 3D.
- Regulatory Knowledge: A deep understanding of environmental permitting and safety regulations (MSHA/OSHA).
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:- Greenfield Specialization: A proven track record specifically in pioneering, greenfield development, or the start-up and expansion phases of a mine.
- Advanced Modeling: Proficiency in 4D modeling (integrating 3D space with time evolution).
- Heavy Earthworks: Specific experience managing heavy earthworks and the contractors associated with these activities.
- Complex Problem Solving: Demonstrated ability to visualize spatial evolution and quickly adjust designs to meet field conditions.
NOTE: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employees may perform other related duties as needed to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.
Other Requirements:Physical - The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to stand, walk; sit; use hands and fingers, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms.
Work Environment - The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The work environment will necessitate work near moving mechanical parts and outside weather conditions such as hot and/or dry conditions. Work will be conducted in locations where noise, fumes, dust, toxic or caustic chemicals, and vibration may exist.
Employees may be expected to drive a company vehicle while performing the job. Employees must be able to perform the physical functions of operating a motor vehicle, including use of eyes, ears, arms, hands, legs, and feet. Employee must be able to prove that he/she has a current and valid driver's license.
