Principal Geotechnical Engineer - Dams, Tailings, & Closure

Overview

What if you could redefine what’s possible? With us, you can. You want Purpose. Growth. Opportunity. People who get it. We are the home of ambitious, passionate, and innovative world shapers. With an unmatched breadth and depth of engineering, advisory and science‑based expertise, our global minds unite to power local solutions. We are pathfinders and impact makers. We are Visioneers . We are WSP.

The Opportunity

Your Impact Starts Here

As a Principal Geotechnical Engineer within our Ground Engineering team, you’ll play a defining role in shaping the future of sustainable resource development, dam safety, and land reclamation across Canada. This is a role for someone whose expertise is recognized, whose judgment is trusted, and whose influence extends well beyond a single project.

Based in Calgary, Edmonton, Saskatoon , or Winnipeg - with relocation support available for those looking to make a move! You’ll collaborate with a highly engaged, genuinely fun group of exceptional professionals who are as passionate about technical excellence as they are about working well together. This is a team that challenges each other, supports each other, and delivers outstanding work.

You’ll work alongside multidisciplinary experts on projects that shape communities, protect landscapes, and leave a legacy for future generations. This is your opportunity to set technical direction, innovate boldly, and mentor the next generation of engineering talent, all while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in geotechnical engineering.

If you’re ready to step into a role where your experience truly matters and your impact will be felt nationally, this is that opportunity.

Your Impact

• Lead geotechnical design and analysis for a wide range of mines, tailings storage facilities (TSFs), or water management systems.
• Plan and coordinate site investigations, geotechnical assessments, and feasibility studies.
• Prepare and review technical deliverables including plans, specifications, engineering reports, modeling studies, cost estimates, drawings, and permit documentation.
• Oversee construction, inspections, and rehabilitation activities to ensure compliance with safety, regulatory, and performance standards.
• Collaborate with regulatory bodies and internal technical teams to guide project delivery.
• Manage projects from planning through completion, ensuring quality, budgets, schedules, and client expectations are met.
• Provide mentorship, guidance, and support to junior, intermediate, and senior engineers, contributing to a strong, future‑ready Ground Engineering team.
• Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies related to dam safety and performance.
• Support proposal development and participate in client focused initiatives and business development activities to contribute to growth across our Ground Engineering practice.
• Stay current with emerging industry trends, technologies, and professional standards; represent WSP at conferences and sector events.

The Skills That Set You Apart

• A bachelor’s degree in civil or Geotechnical Engineering (or equivalent education) is a requirement and a postgraduate degree (MSc/PhD) in Geotechnical or Geological Engineering is an asset.
• A Professional Engineer (P. Eng) designation or eligibility for in a Canadian province.
• 15-20+ years of experience in geotechnical engineering, dam design, or tailings engineering.
• Deep expertise in geotechnical analysis for tailings or water dam designs.
• Experience in or understanding of TSF closure planning and design.
• Strong project management capability paired with business acumen and process improvement mindset.
• A leadership style rooted in mentorship, collaboration, and technical excellence.
• High attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and a proactive, resourceful approach to complex challenges.
• Clear, precise technical communication skills and the ability to build consensus across diverse teams.
• Proven commitment to health, safety, and environmental excellence.

Why Choose WSP?

We exist to shape communities to advance humanity. The brightest engineers, advisors, and scientists from across the globe call WSP home.

• Proudly Canadian – we are a Top 100 Employer in Canada for 2026.
• A global community of brilliant minds – your next idea, mentor, or opportunity is always within reach.
• Limitless opportunities start here. Whether it’s across the country or around the globe, we’ll help you tailor your role to match your ambition — because your growth drives ours.
• Flexible work, real balance – we recognize the importance of balance in our lives and encourage you to prioritize the balance in yours.

Compensation

AB, BC, NT, NU, SK & YT: $147,500 – $195,400

MB & ON: $134,600 – $184,600

NB, NL, NS, PEI & QC: $133,200 – $176,900

Disclosure

The final salary awarded for this role may vary from the above range based on several factors including, but not limited to, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, and business or organizational needs. The wage range provided in this job posting may be subject to change for business purposes.

Make Your Mark with WSP

If you\'re driven by purpose and impact, we’d love to hear from you. Apply now and take the next step toward a rewarding career shaping the future of communities across the Canadian Prairies.

About Us

At WSP , we exist to shape communities to advance humanity. It’s why we bring people together who are wired to solve complex challenges - engineers, scientists, advisors, and technical experts who are driven by a common passion - to redefine what’s possible and shape what comes next. We are Visioneers. As one of the world’s leading professional services firms, we partner with clients across transportation, infrastructure, environment, buildings, energy, water, mining and metals. We pair deep local knowledge with global insights to pioneer solutions designed to leave a lasting, positive impact. At WSP , you’ll join a community of brilliant minds that push boundaries every day - applying deep expertise and fuelling innovation to help create a more connected and resilient future. Here, your ideas are valued, your growth is supported, and you are encouraged to bring your authentic self to work. We empower our people to collaborate across disciplines, challenge the status quo, and shape a career with purpose. Join us.

Please Note - Health and Safety is a core paramount value of WSP. Given the importance of keeping one another safe it is expected that you comply with our Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) policy at all times as well as client HSE policies when working at client locations. Full details here. Some safety-sensitive positions involve fieldwork and may include work in a variety of environmental conditions, such as remote or isolated areas, working alone, and in inclement weather (within safe and reasonable limits).

WSP welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. WSP is committed to the principles of employment equity. Only the candidates selected will be contacted. WSP does not accept unsolicited resumes from agencies. Full details here.