Senior Mine Planning Engineer

USA Rare EarthWe are on a mission to become a leading supplier of critical materials that enable the green energy and technology revolution. Our materials and technologies are required for the electric vehicle, green energy, consumer electronics, and defense industries, and our battery grade lithium and tech metals are needed for chipsets, semiconductors, and 5G.We have a substantial interest in the Round Top, Heavy Rare Earth, Lithium and Critical Minerals deposit in West Texas. We have also developed the United States' first rare earth and critical minerals processing facility and we own the only scalable, sintered neo-magnet manufacturing system in the Western Hemisphere. By developing this fully integrated, US-based "mine-to-magnet" critical mineral supply chain, we are poised to become the leading domestic supplier to these industries.At USA Rare Earth, we are pioneers and problem solvers, technologists and team players. Together, we:Build Solutions: If our task was a simple one, it would already be done. We are creative and solution-oriented, and we think outside the box to solve important problems. We know that a range of expertise and technologies is needed for success, and we work across sectors and alongside customers to deliver world-class solutions in sustainable ways.Deliver Quality: When we do things, we do them well. We believe that top-tier quality leads to industry competitiveness and we hold ourselves to the highest quality standards. We move fast when executing, but safety, quality, and excellence always come first.Lead Responsibly: We have a responsibility to the planet, our consumers, our country, and each other. We put safety at the center of all we do, take accountability for our actions, incorporate sustainable practices in our processes and act with the financial best interest of our investors and consumers in mind.Win Together: Establishing a rare earth magnet supply chain is a big undertaking – and getting there is a team effort. We communicate openly, work together and challenge each other in pursuit of our goals. With every step we take we learn and get better.Key ResponsibilitiesSupervise, train and mentor the team of graduates and internsDevelop and support the execution of mine designs and plans for the Mining operationsLead by example – Seek opportunities to systematically support efforts in leading and improving safety in all areas of the operationMonitor, track and report operational execution against mine plans. Highlight deviations to the plan and identify opportunities to catch up or exceed the planManage and oversee all contractors' activities related to the Mine EngineeringDesign and optimize open pit and mine layouts, including haul roads, ramps, stopes, and sequencingEnsure all mine plans comply with safety standards, regulatory requirements, and environmental guidelinesCollaborate closely with exploration, operations/mining contractors, permitting, and other site teams to align plans and ensure successful executionSupport and manage engineering consultants on studies as requiredMonitor mine performance and reconcile actual results against plan; identify variances and implement improvementsConduct economic evaluations, cost analysis, and productivity assessmentsMentor and supervise junior mine engineers and technical staffSupport budgeting, forecasting, and life-of-mine planning activities and capital projectsImplement and maintain mine planning software and systemsDevelop mine planning processes and proceduresContribute to continuous improvement initiatives and operational excellence programsPerform other duties and projects as assignedRequired QualificationsBachelor's degree in Mining Engineering or a related discipline required; Master's degree preferred.Minimum of 8 years of open pit mining experience with expertise in mine planning, optimization, and operations.Proficiency with mine planning software such as Deswik and Vulcan, with a strong understanding of drill and blast, geotechnical engineering, and mine economics.Working knowledge of U.S. mining regulations, including MSHA standards, and a demonstrated commitment to safe mining practices.Strong analytical, problem-solving, and strategic planning skills with the ability to evaluate both short- and long-term impacts of mine planning decisions.Proven leadership, communication, and cross-functional collaboration skills, with the ability to build credibility, mentor teams, and support organizational priorities.Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, remote site environment while maintaining a high level of attention to detail, operational awareness, and efficiency.This is a full-time, permanent position based on-site at Round Top Mountain, Sierra Blanca, TX, in an outdoor desert environment with exposure to heat, dust, and remote conditions.

The role grows with the project through construction and into full mining operations, with occasional travel required.USA Rare Earth proudly supports Equal Employment OpportunitiesUSA Rare Earth's policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and will provide reasonable accommodations according to applicable federal, state, and/or local laws.