Dam Safety Engineer

Want to work for an Organization that is committed to ensuring the safe, efficient, orderly, and environmentally responsible development of Alberta’s energy sector?

The AER is responsible for regulating all dams in the energy sector. This includes ensuring a full life-cycle approach  (from the design, construction, operation, decommissioning phases through to the closure phase) for these dams, in a safe manner while protecting the public, the environment, and resources.

The role of a Dam Safety Engineer is to work within a matrix with geotechnical engineers to oversee and regulate energy dams according to the Water (Ministerial) Regulation, Part 6 Dam and Canal Safety, and the Dam and Canal Safety Directive.

The successful applicant should have a strong geotechnical background with dam safety engineering experience.

Responsibilities: 

  • Support the AER’s Dam Safety Program in accordance with the applicable government policies, regulations and AER strategic priorities.
  • Build relationships and engage with team members within the Environment and Operational Performance branch and the mining sector including Authorizations branch, and Closure and Liability branch.
  • Promote a collaborative and enterprise-first approach and effectively regulate the full life cycle of energy dams.
  • Build rapport with dam owners to ensure they safely manage their dams.
  • Conduct technical reviews of dam safety regulatory submissions, e.g., design reports, dam safety performance reports, dam safety reviews, risk assessments, etc.
  • Conduct inspections and record and publish results on an annual basis.
  • Conduct assessments of the dam structures and their dam safety management systems.
  • Maintain a reliable AER Dam Safety Registry through suitable quality assurance controls.
  • Address safety incidents and non-compliances within the Integrated Compliance Assurance Framework.
  • Develop, maintain and publish internal manuals for the AER Dam Safety Program.
  • Act as a dam safety subject matter expert at hearings, as required.
  • Participate in the training, development and mentorship of self and other staff as needed.
  • Support collaborative efforts with AER, Government of Alberta and industry initiatives intended to increase the knowledge base and input on objectives, guidelines and standards, and regulatory decision making.
  • Work independently on nonstandard and complex tasks.

Qualifications:
Minimum Qualifications

  • University Bachelor’s Degree in Geotechnical or related Engineering discipline and 7+ years of engineering experience as a geotechnical engineer with a focus on dam safety.
  • Environmental and regulatory experience would be an asset.
  • Thorough knowledge of the Water (Ministerial) Regulation - Part 6 Dam and Canal Safety, and the Dam Safety Directive.
  • Strong knowledge and understanding of the AER application process and mandate, including the Water Act, Water Ministerial Regulation, Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act, Coal Conservation Act, Oil Sands Conservation Act, and Public Lands Act as they pertain to dam safety would be an asset.
  • Experience with risk-informed decision making.
  • Proven ability to multitask and manage multiple deadlines and priorities.
  • Team player with the ability to work cooperatively.
  • Comfortable with change and working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
  • Registered with or eligible for registration with APEGA.
  • Strong analytical skills and the ability to make sound recommendations based on expertise.
  • Strong written and verbal communication and presentation skills with special attention to detail and technical accuracy.
  • Working knowledge of databases and industry software packages for seepage, stress-strain, slope stability, flood routing (inundation mapping) are desirable.
  • Familiar with the Canadian Dam Association (CDA) Dam Safety Guidelines and Bulletins, and Mining Association of Canada (MAC) tailings management guidelines is required.

Preferred Qualifications

  • MSc. in Geotechnical Engineering or related field.
  • 10+ years of engineering experience as a geotechnical engineer with a focus on dam safety.

Additional requirements/information for candidates:

  • Additional training provided if required: i.e. First Aid, H2S Alive, Driver Training.
  • This position will require some travel and occasional nights away from home.
  • Pre-placement Medical required and Driver’s Abstract required.
  • Possess a fully valid driver’s license along with a positive driving record. The word "fully" describes the criteria for a class 5 as opposed to a graduated license, and "positive driving record" as defined in the AER driving policy.
  • Eligible locations: Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer, Fort McMurray, Grande Prairie.
  • Please note, this posting will close at midnight on July 21, 2019.