Foran Mining Corporation (TSX:FOM) is a modern mining company that wants to change what mining means to people. We are currently seeking a Ground Control/Backfill Engineer to join our expanding McIlvenna Bay project team. This is a full-time position based at the McIlvenna Bay project site with a 14/14 roster.
As part of the Technical Services Team, the Ground Control/ Backfill Engineer will be responsible for ensuring the stability and safety of underground mining operations. This position is responsible for designing ground support systems, monitoring ground conditions, and overseeing backfilling operations to minimize the risk of ground instability and ensure safe and efficient mining processes.
Job Responsibilities:
• Develop and implement ground control plans and designs for underground mining areas to prevent rockfalls, ground collapses, and other geotechnical hazards.
• Utilize geotechnical data and monitoring information to assess rock mass behavior and design appropriate ground support systems.
• Develop backfilling strategies to efficiently utilize mining voids and maintain ground stability.
• Oversee the placement of underground backfill and surface tailings material, ensuring it meets engineering specifications and environmental standards.
• Conduct regular geotechnical inspections and monitoring to assess ground conditions and identify potential risks.
• Interpret monitoring data and implement necessary ground control measures in response to changing conditions.
• Analyze rock mechanics data and conduct numerical modeling to assess the stability of underground openings and design appropriate support systems.
• Provide training and guidance to mining personnel on ground control practices, safe work procedures, and the proper installation of ground support.
• Identify potential geotechnical hazards and conduct risk assessments to develop mitigation plans and improve ground control practices.
• Work closely with mining engineers, geologists and operations, to optimize mining sequences and ensure ground control measures align with mining plans.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements related to ground control and backfilling operations.
• Maintain detailed records of ground control activities, geotechnical assessments, and backfilling activities.
• Stay updated with advancements in ground control and backfilling technologies, and contribute to the development of best practices and innovative solutions.
Job Qualifications and Skills:
• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, or a related field.
• Masters degree in geomechanics.
• +3 yrs experience in underground mining with a focus on ground control and backfilling.
• Strong knowledge of rock mechanics, ground support systems, and backfill materials.
• Familiarity with geotechnical monitoring techniques and data interpretation.
• Proficiency in geotechnical software for numerical modeling and analysis.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills to address geotechnical challenges.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Ability to work in a dynamic mining environment and adapt to changing conditions.
• Understanding of safety regulations and the importance of promoting a safety-first culture in underground mining operations.
Physical Demands & Job Hazards:
Physical Demands:
• Underground Work: Ground control/backfill engineers may need to work underground for inspections, monitoring, and assessments, requiring physical mobility in confined spaces and uneven terrain.
• Climbing and Accessing Work Areas: Engineers may need to climb ladders or access elevated work areas to inspect ground support installations.
• Field Work: The role involves conducting fieldwork in various underground areas, which may require walking, standing, and physical exertion.
• Data Collection: Ground control engineers may need to collect data using instruments or manual measurements, which may involve repetitive actions.
Job Hazards:
• Ground Stability Risks: Working underground exposes ground control engineers to the risk of rockfalls, ground collapses, and other geotechnical hazards.
• Exposure to Geotechnical Hazards: Ground control engineers may face exposure to hazardous gases, dust, and other airborne particles within the mine environment.
• Backfilling Hazards: Involvement in backfill planning and management may expose engineers to potential hazards associated with the handling and placement of backfill materials.
• Confined Spaces: Working in confined underground spaces can pose risks of asphyxiation, chemical exposure, or entrapment if proper safety procedures are not followed.
• Equipment Hazards: The use of ground support installation equipment and instruments can pose risks of pinching, entanglement, or falling objects.
• Underground Transportation: Engineers may use mine vehicles or equipment to move between work areas, increasing the risk of accidents and collisions.
• Weather Conditions: Underground environments may be affected by changes in temperature, humidity, and ventilation, which can impact work conditions.
• Worksite Communication: Communication challenges can arise due to limited signal availability in underground areas, affecting coordination with teams on the surface.
• Backfill Placement Risks: Supervising backfill operations may involve risks associated with material handling, equipment use and ground stability during backfill placement.
• Emergency Situations: Ground control engineers may need to respond to emergency situations, such as rockfalls or ground instability incidents.
Tools & Equipment:
• Ground Support Design Software: Specialized software for designing and modeling ground support systems, analyzing rock mechanics data, and assessing ground stability.
• Geotechnical Instruments: Instruments for measuring ground movement, rock stress, rock mass properties, and other geotechnical parameters. Examples include inclinometers, extensometers, borehole deformation gauges, and rock stress cells.
• Ground Support Materials: Various materials used for ground support, such as rock bolts, mesh, shotcrete, resin, and steel sets.
• Backfill Material Testing Equipment: Equipment for testing the physical properties of backfill materials, such as gradation, density, strength, and permeability.
• Surveying Equipment: Surveying tools, including total stations and GPS receivers, for accurate measurements and mapping of underground mining areas.
• Geotechnical Monitoring Systems: Automated monitoring systems that continuously collect data on ground movement, rock stress, and other geotechnical parameters.
• Communication Devices: Mobile phones or two-way radios for communication with mining personnel and teams at the mine site.
• Safety Equipment: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) including hard hats, safety boots, gloves, and high-visibility vests for protection while working in the mine.
• Geotechnical Drilling Equipment: Drilling rigs and core drilling equipment for collecting rock samples and conducting geotechnical investigations.
• Ground Control Inspection Tools: Tools for inspecting ground support installations, such as mirrors, flashlights, and cameras.
• Computer and Software: Computers equipped with relevant software for data analysis, numerical modeling, and reporting.
• Backfill Placement Equipment: Equipment for placing backfill material, such as conveyor belts, loaders, and trucks.
• Safety Signs and Barriers: Signs and barriers to mark hazardous areas or warn personnel about ground control or backfilling activities.
• Backfill Management Systems: Systems for managing backfill materials, tracking placement, and monitoring compaction
• Foran is committed to building a skilled and diverse workforce as we move into our next phase of growth. Indigenous applicants are encouraged to self-declare when submitting applications and resumes. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, you must be legally able to work in Canada.
Compensation and Benefits:
We offer a competitive starting salary range of $90,000 - $105,000 year based on experience and qualifications.
Our comprehensive benefits package includes:
• Employer paid health, dental, and vision insurance
• Life and disability insurance
• RSP with company match