Manager Bulk Earthworks
An inclusive environment for all
We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where employees feel comfortable being themselves. We also want everyone to feel that their voices matter, that all cultures are respected, and that perspectives, as diverse as they are, are not only welcome, but essential to our success. We treat each other fairly and with dignity, regardless of race, gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, age, sexual orientation or any other distinguishing aspect.
At Rio Tinto, we welcome and encourage applications from women, older workers, persons with disabilities and representatives from diverse backgrounds.
Everyone is different, and we believe that these differences are our strength. The diversity of skills, life experiences, and perspectives within our team enhances the way we work and our ability to succeed together.
About the role
The BEW Manager is responsible for leading large-scale bulk earthworks operations across the Simandou project, one of the world’s largest integrated mining and infrastructure developments (mine, rail, port). The role ensures safe, efficient, and cost-effective execution of mass earthmoving activities in alignment with Rio Tinto’s operational excellence, safety, and sustainability standards.
Key Responsibilities
Lead execution of high-volume earthworks (cut & fill, haulage, embankments, platforms, rail formation)
Manage millions of BCMs across complex terrain and multiple work fronts
Ensure alignment with engineering designs, specifications, and construction sequencing
Develop and drive short, medium and long-term earthworks plans
Optimize haulage routes, fleet allocation, and cycle times to maximize productivity
Monitor production rates vs targets using fleet management and digital tools
Oversee large fleets of heavy mobile equipment (excavators, dozers, graders, off-highway trucks)
Manage EPC contractors and subcontractors delivering BEW packages
Ensure contractor performance meets Rio Tinto standards (safety, cost, schedule)
Monitor cost per BCM and overall earthworks budget performance
Identify cost-saving opportunities (haul optimization, fuel efficiency, equipment utilization)
Support contract management, claims review, and variation assessments
Champion Rio Tinto’s “Safe Production” culture with zero-harm mindset
Ensure compliance with Guinean regulations and international HSE standards
Manage risks related to:
Heavy mobile equipment
Traffic management
Fatigue and remote site operations
Lead incident prevention, reporting, and investigations
Ensure earthworks meet required compaction, density, and alignment specifications
Collaborate with survey, geotechnical, and engineering teams
Drive quality assurance and control processes across all work areas
Coordinate with a number of internal stakeholders
Manage interfaces across multiple contractors and project zones
Integrate environmental considerations into earthworks execution
Minimize land disturbance and manage erosion, sediment control, and rehabilitation
Qualifications & Experience
10–15+ years in bulk earthworks on large-scale mining or infrastructure projects
Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Mining Engineering, or related discipline
Strong experience in mega-project environments (>$1B)
Proven track record managing high-volume earthmoving (millions of BCMs)
Experience in Africa or remote, logistically complex environments (highly desirable)
Deep understanding of Mass earthworks methodologies and sequencing,Haul road design and optimization,Cut & fill balancing
Proficient with: Fleet management systems (e.g., Modular, Wenco),Planning tools (MS Project, Primavera P6),Earthworks and survey data interpretation
Strong safety-first leadership mindset
Ability to lead multicultural and contractor-heavy teams
High resilience in remote and challenging environments
Collaborative leadership across multiple project interfaces
Results-driven with strong accountability
Earthworks production (BCM moved vs plan)
Cost per BCM vs budget
Equipment utilization and availability
Schedule adherence (critical path activities)
HSE performance (TRIFR, zero fatalities)
Contractor performance and compliance
What we offer
Get recognition for your contributions, your ability to think, your hard work, and the satisfaction of knowing that you have helped the world move forward.
- Work environment where safety is always the top priority
- Competitive base salary based on your skills and experience
- Annual cash incentives for eligible employees
- Career development opportunities and training assistance to achieve your aspirations • Access to family-friendly health programs, top-notch retirement and savings plans
- Wellness benefits
- Rio Tinto's generous employee stock ownership plan
- Employee Assistance Program
- One-on-one wellness support (personal and professional matters) for you and your family
- Comprehensive leave policy covering all important life moments (vacation/annual, paid parental leave, etc.)
About the Simandou Project
The Simandou Iron Ore Project is located in the Republic of Guinea, West Africa. It is Africa’s largest infrastructure and mining project and represents one of the largest known reserves of high-grade iron ore in the world.
Rio Tinto holds rights to Simandou Blocks 3 and 4 through SimFer, a joint venture between the Government of the Republic of Guinea, Rio Tinto and Chalco Iron Ore Holdings (CIOH). Construction of the mine, together with the associated rail and port infrastructure, is well underway with first production from the SimFer mine expected in 2025.
About Rio Tinto
Rio Tinto is a global leader in the mining and materials companies. We are established in 35 countries where we produce iron ore, copper, aluminum, critical minerals, and other materials needed for the global energy transition and the prosperity of people, communities, and nations. We have been in business for 150 years, drawing on knowledge accumulated over generations and on different continents. Our mission – to find better ways to provide the materials the world needs – guides us in our quest for innovation and continuous improvement, with the goal of making products that are low in emissions and meet the right environmental, social and governance standards. But because we can't do it alone, we focus on creating partnerships that allow us to solve problems, create mutually beneficial situations and seize opportunities.