Principal Hydrogeologist

About Us

At Onterris, we build careers grounded in purpose, responsibility and real-world impact. For Planet and Progress is our north star that guides everything we do. We believe environmental responsibility and human progress are interconnected, interwoven and international. Our scientists, engineers, field teams, consultants and professionals collaborate across disciplines and geographies, guiding industries and governments, ensuring that communities and environments thrive. When you join us, you’re not just forging a career, you’re joining a movement. A movement for better thinking, smarter solutions and lasting impact. Together, we will advance our way of life and protect the integrity of our environment every step of the way.

Principal Hydrogeologist

As a Principal Hydrogeologist, you’ll be responsible for assisting multiple projects where you will have increasing interaction with our multi-disciplinary staff, regulatory agencies and clients. You will be part of a strong team of committed professionals.

The compensation range for this role is $135,000 to $185,000, commensurate with experience, skills, and geographic location.

A Day in the Life

To thrive in this role, you’ll be comfortable taking ownership of the following responsibilities:

• Support Market Sector Leads with the strategic growth of Our Mining Hydrogeology services across Canada and globally.
• Support the development and implementation of business development strategies in collaboration with Service Directors, Technical Directors, and Market Sector Leads.
• Identify, pursue, and win new project opportunities in the mining and water sectors through strong client relationships and technical reputation.
• Represent the company in technical and industry forums, professional and industry associations, conferences, and client presentations.

Technical Leadership Across the Mine Lifecycle

Exploration And Feasibility

• Design and interpret hydrogeological site investigations, aquifer testing programs, and baseline water resource assessments.
• Contribute to feasibility studies and environmental impact assessments (EIA/EIS) by evaluating hydrogeological risks and water supply potential.

Development And Operations

• Develop dewatering and depressurization designs and strategies, groundwater flow and contaminant transport models, and integrated water balance models (e.g., FEFLOW, MODFLOW, MIKE SHE, GoldSim). Support permitting and compliance monitoring programs.

Closure And Post-Closure

• Lead studies on long‑term groundwater recovery, pit lake evolution, seepage control, contaminant attenuation, and water quality risk management.
• Develop conceptual and numerical closure models to support mine reclamation and regulatory closure criteria.
• Ensure project quality, technical rigor, and safety are maintained to the highest standard through QA/QC reviews, technical direction, and peer review of deliverables.

Project and Team Management

• Provide senior review and technical oversight of hydrogeological studies and modelling assignments.
• Supervise and mentor junior, intermediate, and senior hydrogeologists, fostering professional growth and technical excellence.
• Collaborate closely with geotechnical, geochemical, surface water, and environmental disciplines to deliver integrated water management solutions.

Client and Regulatory Engagement

• Maintain and strengthen relationships with mining companies, Indigenous communities, regulators, and partner firms.
• Act as senior liaison during regulatory review processes and stakeholder consultations.
• Provide expert input and testimony during permitting hearings or public engagement sessions.

Your Expertise And Skills

• Master’s or PhD in Hydrogeology, Geological Engineering, or a related geoscience discipline.
• Licensed P.Geo. or P.Eng. in Ontario (additional provincial registrations an asset: BC, AB, YT, NT, SK).
• 25+ years of hydrogeological experience, with at least 15 years in mining hydrogeology.
• Proven leadership in all aspects of the mine lifecycle — exploration, baseline, development, operation, closure, and post-closure.
• Proven ability to win and deliver multi‑million‑dollar projects in mining and water management.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills; ability to produce and review high‑quality technical deliverables.
• Commitment to mentoring and developing staff across all levels.
• Knowledge of Canadian federal and provincial/territorial environmental and mining regulations, including permitting, closure, and water management requirements.
• Enthusiasm for technical excellence, innovation, and continuous professional development.
• Willingness to travel within Canada and internationally for short‑to‑medium‑term assignments.
• Valid Class G driver’s license (or equivalent).

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in our employment for individuals with disabilities. We are an equal opportunity employer and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds. We acknowledge that these experiences and perspectives help to enrich our teams and contribute to our ongoing success. We are committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in our employment for all applicants.

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