Chief Surveyor (mine / survey / spatial data) - South America

Chief Surveyor (mine / survey / spatial data) - South America

Job Description

A growing mining operation is seeking an experienced and highly skilled Chief Surveyor to lead and manage all mine surveying activities supporting active open-pit mining operations.

This senior technical leadership role is responsible for survey control systems, topographic and mine development surveys, production measurements, stockpile and waste volume calculations, survey data management, and reconciliation support. The successful candidate will play a critical role in ensuring the accuracy and integrity of survey information that supports mine planning, production, operational compliance, and strategic decision-making.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate all mine surveying activities across mining operations.
• Establish, maintain, and monitor survey control networks, benchmarks, and survey infrastructure.
• Ensure the accuracy and reliability of survey measurements, calculations, maps, plans, and technical documentation.
• Conduct and supervise:
  • Topographic surveys
  • Pit development surveys
  • Infrastructure surveys
  • Production surveys
  • Operational field surveys
• Pit and bench development
• Haul road construction and alignment
• Ramp construction
• Drainage systems
• Mine infrastructure projects
• Verify compliance with approved mine designs, layouts, elevations, and development plans.
• Conduct stockpile, waste dump, and excavation volume calculations.
• Support mine planning and production teams through the provision of accurate survey data and technical information.
• Assist with reconciliation activities, depletion tracking, dilution assessments, and production measurement reporting.
• Manage survey records, maps, drawings, databases, and technical documentation.
• Oversee the maintenance, calibration, and utilization of survey equipment and technology.
• Lead the implementation and use of modern surveying technologies, including UAV and GIS systems.
• Develop and mentor survey personnel while promoting best practices and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Mine Surveying, Geomatics, Survey Engineering, Mining Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Professional certification in Mine Surveying, Geomatics, or related disciplines is considered an asset.
• Additional training in mine planning software, GIS systems, UAV operations, or advanced surveying technologies is highly desirable.

Experience

• Minimum of 5 years' experience in a senior mine surveying or survey engineering role within the mining industry.
• Demonstrated experience supporting open-pit/open-cut mining operations.
• Strong background in survey control networks, production surveys, volume calculations, and mine development surveys.
• Experience utilizing modern survey technologies including GPS, Total Stations, UAVs, GIS platforms, and digital terrain modelling systems.
• Previous supervisory experience leading survey teams is preferred.
• Experience working within remote or camp-based mining operations is advantageous.