Chief Mine Engineer - FIFO from Western Canada

Reporting to the Technical Services Manager, the purpose of this role is to lead and manage the mine engineering function, overseeing mine planning, infrastructure development, ventilation, and geotechnical activities. The Chief Mine Engineer ensures the development and execution of short-, mid-, and long-term mine plans that align with production targets, safety standards, regulatory requirements, and corporate objectives while providing technical leadership and support to engineering and operations teams.

About Us

The Keno Hill mine, located within the Keno Hill Silver District in Canada’s Yukon Territory, is one of the highest-grade silver districts in the world, situated 350 kilometres north of Whitehorse, and lies within the traditional territory of the First Nation of Na-Cho Nyak Dun.

It comprises 242 square kilometres (km2) with numerous mineral deposits and more than 35 historical past-producing mine sites. Keno Hill is expected to produce ~3.0 million ounces of silver in 2026.

The mine is owned and operated by Hecla Mining Company, headquartered in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Established in 1891, Hecla has a rich history as a distinguished and respected precious metals producer. Winner of numerous safety and environmental awards, Keno Hill is seeking new team members committed to professional growth and success.

Here’s What You Can Expect In This Role

• Oversee, coordinate and address engineering activities including annual budgets, reserves, planning, surface and underground infrastructure, mine ventilation and geotechnical issues
• Develop, optimize and implement an approved 3‑month, 1‑month and weekly mine plan to achieve annual tonnage and ounce objectives in a safe and economic manner
• Coordinate mid‑range and long‑range mine infrastructure planning with mine operations related to dewatering, electrical and ventilation
• Monitor compliance and ensure adherence to applicable engineering codes, regulations, safety and environmental practices, performance standards and specifications
• Provide technical leadership and operational expertise to the engineering and operations team
• Establish, execute, and effectively monitor short‑term and long‑term plans that support corporate growth strategies. Collaborate with corporate technical services on plans and projects
• Participate in daily/weekly planning meetings, with key personnel, to coordinate activities to meet goals
• Plan alternative optimized methods of ore extraction, stope access and mining sequence, detailing the benefits and issues with each while making recommendations to the team
• Preparation of month‑end and year‑end engineering reports and submissions
• Coordinate mine engineering work with geology and mine operations teams
• Develop and maintain engineering policies and procedures
• Enforce accountability of compliance to plans within the mine operations department
• Work cooperatively with the mine operations teams to develop engineered solutions to operational problems. Ensure engineering provides adequate prints to support mine operations
• Recruit, mentor, and retain engineering personnel in coordination with departmental succession planning
• Other duties may be assigned
• You will help to promote a strong environmental culture, promoting and teaching environmentally friendly values and work practices
• You will help to foster a strong safety culture, promoting and exemplifying safe work practices throughout the organization
• You will be part of a team you can rely on, a team that will have your back

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mine Engineering required
• Must be able to register for a P.Eng in the Yukon Territory (preferred)
• 10+ years of experience supporting or managing projects in operating underground mines and/or projects under development/expansion
• 5+ years of underground operational supervisory/management experience required
• Strong background in mine services, design, scheduling, QA/QC, and contractor management
• Ability to utilize mine design software and Microsoft Office required
• Experience in underground narrow vein mining, ground control, and underground/surface water management considered assets
• Ability to communicate effectively (verbal and written) to operational and technical levels
• Must have valid Class 5 driver’s license

Pre-employment Requirements

• Pre-Employment Testing (drug & alcohol, blood lead, and audiogram)
• Valid Class 5 Driver’s License
• Clean Driver’s Abstract

Safety, Health, Environmental Responsibilities And Accountabilities

• Comply with all necessary requirements to prevent safety or environmental incidents, injuries, or losses
• Ensure the safety and health of themselves and others in the workplace by being responsible for their actions and taking due care while performing their work
• Follow all environmental requirements and maintain integrity to ensure environmental compliance
• Ensure all spills are reported in accordance with spill reporting procedures
• Identify, eliminate, and report hazards as soon as practicable
• Report incidents and accidents as soon as practicable
• Disclose all information regarding incidents and cooperate in incident investigations
• Assist in the resolution of health and safety matters in a positive and timely manner
• Use and maintain PPE
• Provide suggestions for improving work processes
• Assist Management by supporting change to achieve desired targets
• Ensure that plant and equipment operate within their safe working limits
• Ensure that correct equipment is used for the job
• Participate in risk assessment methodology
• Participate in safety initiatives
• Receiving training and instruction as required
• Maintain good housekeeping standards

Work Environment

Employees will be regularly exposed to outdoor weather conditions, including snow and ice, as well as extreme temperatures ranging from cold to warm. The work environment may involve contact with potentially hazardous wildlife, moving mechanical parts, elevated work areas, airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, and the use of explosives. There is also a risk of electrical shock and exposure to vibration. Noise levels can occasionally be loud, depending on the task or location on site.

Work Location & Schedule

This is a fly‑in fly‑out position based at a remote mining camp, operating on a rotational schedule of 14 days on and 14 days off. Camp accommodations and meals are provided while on site. All travel to and from the mine site is arranged through a designated travel agency and coordinated from approved flight hubs.

To ensure efficient travel logistics, we are primarily seeking candidates who reside in the Yukon, British Columbia, and Alberta, particularly near major transportation centers within these regions.

Compensation & Benefits

Hecla Keno Hill offers competitive pay based on experience and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance, plus a 6% RRSP matching program. Our remote site features a gym and a welcome center, along with a Health Spending Account, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and an Educational Assistance Program to support your health, well‑being, and professional growth.