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Job Title


Principal Geotechnical Engineer - Dams, Tailings, & Closure


Company : Water Canada


Location : Saskatoon, Division No. 11


Created : 2026-04-23


Job Type : Full Time


Job Description

Principal Geotechnical Engineer Dams, Tailings & Closure Job Description As a Principal Geotechnical Engineer within our Ground Engineering team, youll 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! Youll 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. Youll 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 whats possible in geotechnical engineering. 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, futureready 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 bachelors 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. - 1520+ 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. 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. Safety, Health, and Equality Statement 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 safetysensitive 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr