Principal Geotechnical Engineer Dams, Tailings, & Closure (Winnipeg)

Overview

Principal Geotechnical Engineer – Ground Engineering

Based in Calgary, Edmonton, Saskatoon, or Winnipeg (relocation support available).

Lead technical direction in sustainable resource development, dam safety, and land reclamation across Canada. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to design, assess, and deliver projects that protect landscapes, shape communities, and leave a legacy.

Responsibilities

• Lead geotechnical design and analysis for mines, tailings storage facilities (TSFs), and 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 documents.
• 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.
• 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.
• Stay current with emerging industry trends, technologies, and professional standards; represent WSP at conferences and sector events.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in civil or geotechnical engineering (required). Postgraduate degree (MSc/PhD) in geotechnical or geological engineering is an asset.
• Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) designation or eligibility 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 or understanding of TSF closure planning and design.
• Strong project‑management capability paired with business acumen and process‑improvement mindset.
• Leadership style rooted in mentorship, collaboration, and technical excellence.
• High attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and a proactive, resource‑ful 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.

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

Final salary awarded may vary based on education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, geographic location, performance, and business needs.

Benefits

Relocation support available. Health and safety commitment: compliance with WSP Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) policy and client HSE policies.

WSP is committed to the principles of employment equity. Only candidates selected will be contacted. WSP welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request.