At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative tailings and mine waste projects, providing technical expertise and guidance.
- Company: Join WSP, a global leader in engineering and consulting with a focus on sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, career growth opportunities, and a supportive team culture.
- Other info: Be part of a close-knit community dedicated to innovation and positive change.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on communities while working on iconic projects with industry experts.
- Qualifications: 15+ years in tailings engineering and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 56700 - 69300 £ per year.
This role will see you enhance your capabilities and the reputation of WSP’s Mine Advisory team.
You will collaborate with talented professionals working on iconic projects to drive future ready outcomes that will benefit clients and communities.
What you’ll do: We are seeking an accomplished Principal Tailings Engineer to provide technical leadership across a portfolio of tailings and mine waste projects.
You’ll serve as a trusted advisor to clients, lead complex technical studies and reviews, contribute to tailings governance initiatives, and play a key role in developing the next generation of tailings professionals while supporting the growth of WSP's Mine Advisory business both nationally and internationally.
Provide technical leadership on tailings storage facility (TSF) and mine waste projects across the full asset lifecycle, from concept and feasibility through operations, closure, and post-closure.
Lead multidisciplinary teams in the planning, design, review, and governance of tailings management facilities in accordance with industry leading practice.
Act as a technical advisor to clients on tailings risk management, dam safety, consequence classification, monitoring programs, surveillance, and operational readiness.
Lead or contribute to Independent Technical Reviews (ITRs), Dam Safety Reviews (DSRs), and Engineer of Record (Eo R) support services.
Provide strategic guidance on implementation of the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM), ANCOLD, CDA, and other applicable regulatory requirements.
Oversight and peer review of geotechnical investigations, design reports, stability assessments, water management studies, and operational monitoring programs.
Support clients in developing tailings governance frameworks, risk management systems, Trigger Action Response Plans (TARPs), and operational management plans.
Build and maintain trusted client relationships while identifying opportunities for future work and contributing to business development activities.
Mentor and develop junior engineers, fostering technical excellence and knowledge sharing across the team.
Represent WSP at industry forums, technical conferences, and client engagements as a recognised tailings subject matter expert.
About You Bachelor's degree in Civil, Geotechnical, Mining or Environmental Engineering, with postgraduate qualifications viewed favourably.15+ years' experience in tailings, mine waste, geotechnical engineering, or related consulting environments.
Demonstrated experience leading the design, operation, governance, and closure planning of Tailings Storage Facilities.
Strong working knowledge of GISTM, ANCOLD Guidelines, CDA Dam Safety Guidelines, and relevant Australian and international regulatory frameworks.
Recognised technical expertise in tailings engineering, including earthworks, embankment design, seepage management, stability assessment, water management, and dam safety.
Proven ability to act as a technical lead, reviewer, or Engineer of Record support on complex tailings projects.
Chartered Engineer status (CPEng/RPEQ/RPEV or equivalent) or eligibility to obtain chartership.
Strong client relationship management and business development experience, including proposal preparation and project pursuit activities.
Demonstrated leadership capability with experience mentoring engineers and leading multidisciplinary teams.
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present technical information to executive stakeholders, regulators, boards, and external review panels.
Willingness and ability to undertake domestic and international travel as required.
Why WSP?Work alongside industry-leading tailings and geotechnical professionals.
Exposure to a diverse range of projects across Australia and internationally.
A supportive team culture that values development, innovation, and technical excellence.
Opportunities for structured career growth and professional accreditation.
Flexible working options.
Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all.
Join our close-knit community of talented individuals who share your passion for making a positive impact.
Our global team includes more than 73,000 employees, working together to make a difference in communities both close to home and around the world.
To find out more about our commitment to the health and wellbeing of our people, and the programs we’ve designed to help you thrive, go to our Employee Benefits page.
With us, you can.
Apply today.
- Full time
- Posting Date: 2026-07-23
Principal Tailings Engineer in Perth employer: WSP Group
WSP is an exceptional employer for a Principal Tailings Engineer, offering a dynamic work environment where you can collaborate with industry-leading professionals on impactful projects. With a strong emphasis on employee development, flexible working options, and a supportive team culture, WSP fosters both personal and professional growth while making a positive difference in communities worldwide.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Tailings Engineer in Perth
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Principal Tailings Engineer role you’re after at WSP Group.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at WSP Group a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at WSP Group.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Principal Tailings Engineer at WSP Group, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Tailings Engineer in Perth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Principal Tailings Engineer, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at WSP Group a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to WSP Group specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at WSP Group
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with WSP Group, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like WSP Group want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
