Hydrogeologist

About the Role

Reporting to the Water Resources Manager, the Hydrogeologist/Water Specialist provides technical expertise and support related to groundwater and surface water management for mining projects. This role supports study development, project execution, and field investigations through hydrogeologic analysis, water management planning, and regulatory alignment. The specialist contributes to water management strategies, supports hydrogeologic modeling and analysis, and ensures water-related risks, costs, and operational requirements are integrated into project planning and decision-making.

Responsibilities

• Perform hydrogeologic assessments, including groundwater and surface water analysis, to support project studies and design.
• Compile, analyze, and interpret hydrogeologic data, including groundwater levels, flow systems, water quality, and hydrologic conditions.
• Support development and application of hydrogeologic and hydrologic models to evaluate site conditions and project scenarios.
• Support responsible water stewardship practices aligned with regulatory requirements and company commitments.
• Contribute to planning and design analyses, providing recommendations related to dewatering, water management, and closure strategies.
• Support development of site-wide water management plans, including water balance, handling, storage, and reuse strategies.
• Collaborate with mine engineering, geology, geotechnical, environmental, permitting, and operations teams to integrate water management into project design.
• Assist in evaluating impacts of mine design and operational activities on groundwater and surface water systems.
• Support identification of risks and opportunities related to water management, including cost, schedule, and operational impacts.
• Support the development, calibration, and review of hydrogeologic models.
• Prepare technical reports, studies, and documentation related to groundwater basins, water systems, and project water strategies.
• Ensure hydro(geo)logic and water quality data are accurately collected, maintained, and applied to support project decisions.
• Support compliance with applicable water management regulations, permits, and approvals.
• Assist in preparation of regulatory submissions and technical documentation.
• Provide technical input to support engagement with regulators and internal stakeholders.
• Support scope development and technical review of consultant work related to hydrogeology and water management.
• Review technical deliverables to ensure alignment with project requirements, standards, and objectives.
• Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned to meet operational needs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Hydrogeology, Geology, Civil Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in hydrogeology, preferably within mining or heavy industrial environments.
• Experience with groundwater and surface water systems, including water well design, hydraulic flow, and water balance concepts.
• Familiarity with hydrogeologic and hydrologic modeling techniques; experience developing or supporting models is preferred.
• Knowledge of regulatory frameworks related to water management in mining environments.
• Experience in preparing and reviewing technical reports and studies for internal and external stakeholders.
• Professional designation in Minnesota State (e.g., P.G. or P.E.), or ability to acquire, is considered an asset.

Skills and Abilities

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret complex hydrogeologic data.
• Ability to integrate water-related considerations into multidisciplinary project environments.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information clearly.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work collaboratively across technical teams and stakeholders.
• Proficiency with hydrogeologic modeling tools and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic project environment.
• Commitment to safety, environmental responsibility, and continuous improvement.

Physical Job Requirements & Working Conditions

This role requires the ability to work in both office and active project site environments, including occasional travel to meet with regulatory agencies and external stakeholders. Physical requirements may include extended periods of sitting and computer use, walking on uneven terrain, climbing stairs or accessing elevated platforms, and wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, safety glasses, steel-toe boots, respiratory protection, and high-visibility clothing. The position may involve exposure to varying weather conditions, noise, dust, and other typical construction or industrial site environments, while maintaining a strong commitment to safety and compliance with all health, safety, and environmental standards.