Project Manager - Site Operations (2 Year Fixed Term Contract)

JobsCloseBy Editorial Insights

OceanaGold seeks a Project Manager, Site Operations, for the Waihi North Project on a 2 year fixed term contract, based in Waihi, New Zealand, responsible for the Waihi Process Plant sustaining and growth capital works. The role requires a mechanical engineering degree, 10+ years in process engineering and project management, brownfield upgrade experience, and strong MS Project and cost reporting skills with URS, SOW, PEP and AFEs. You will lead multidisciplinary studies, manage RFIs and design reviews, and ensure safe, compliant delivery with operations and external consultants. This residential, Monday to Friday role offers a values-driven culture, EAP support, and clear career development. Applications close 24 February 2026; NZ work eligibility required; agencies not accepted.

Company Description

OceanaGold is a growing mid-tier gold and copper producer listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX). With four operating mines—Haile in the USA, Didipio in the Philippines, and Macraes and Waihi in New Zealand—we are committed to safe, responsible mining that generates strong returns and supports sustainable development.

Our purpose is mining gold for a better future. The gold, copper, and silver we produce power renewable energy, life-saving medical devices, and the technology that connects communities. Beyond this, our operations drive economic growth and improve health and education outcomes in the regions we serve, supporting over 3,700 direct jobs globally.

Guided by our values—Care, Respect, Integrity, Performance, and Teamwork—we strive to be a trusted company people want to work for, partner with, and invest in, creating lasting value for all our stakeholders.

Our Waihi Operation in the North Island of New Zealand is an underground gold mine. A recent consent for the Waihi North Project, a new mine to be developed 6km north of the existing operation has provided a long term extension of mine life providing our 400 staff and contractors, and the people of Waihi, an assurance that we plan to be here for the long-term. 

Job Description

The Project Manager – Site Operations (Waihi North Project - Engineer) is responsible for all aspects related to the Waihi Process Plant & Baxter Road sustaining and growth capital projects. This key role ensures that all aspects of capital project management - process development, process design, and project execution - are carried out as efficiently as possible from a technical perspective. Positive engagement with the Waihi Operations team will be essential for success.

Key Tasks and Responsibilities:

• Manage Waihi Process Plant and surrounding work area capital project studies involving a range of disciplines of internal experts and external consultants to produce optimal project outcomes.
• Coordinate the input of various engineering functions during the development, approval, execution and handover to operations phases of sustaining and growth capital projects in the Process Plant and surrounding work areas. Key projects to include, but not be limited to, Crusher Upgrade, Leach Circuit Upgrade, and replacement of corroded infrastructure (tanks, structural steel). Additional projects will include optimisation of parking and building layout at Baxter Road.
• Liaise with Operations and WNP concerning the development of projects from conceptual design through to detailed design.
• Build and maintain effective relationships to retain a high-performance workforce through engagement, communication and motivation.
• Ensure compliance with NZ engineering standards and legislative conditions.
• Prepare documentation for all phases of capital projects including; Concept Studies, User Requirements Specifications (URS); Project Execution Plans (PEP); AFEs and Close-out Reports.
• Prepare (within discipline) and assist (across disciplines) with documentation for project contracts including; Scopes of Work (SOW); pricing schedules; Material Take Offs (MTOs), tender reviews, tender clarifications and tender recommendations.
• Manage all Requests for Information (RFI) and maintain the RFI register for all contracts in progress, ensure RFIs are responded to within the designated time.
• Lead (within discipline) and participate (across disciplines) in the design review process for capital projects.
• Carry out discipline engineering works for projects being undertaken.
• Maintain daily records of works management, including incidents, progress, delays and the achievement of milestones. Ensure site management is promptly informed of all relevant matters and developments associated with construction activities and site works management.

Qualifications

• A recognised degree in Mechanical Engineering or accepted equivalent.
• Full and current driver licence, ability to drive manual vehicles is preferred.

Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years post graduate experience in process engineering and project management.
• Experience with dealing with brownfield operational upgrades is highly desirable.
• Advanced MS Office and MS Project skills.
• Advanced professional report writing & cost reporting ability.

Additional Information

WHAT'S ON OFFER:

• 2 Year Fixed Term Contract
• Residential role - live and work in Waihi, the gateway to the stunning Coromandel region
• Monday to Friday roster
• Living Our Values recognition program
• Access to OceanaGold Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Exceptional working environment where people are valued and respected

YOU MATTER: OceanaGold is committed to providing equal employment opportunities. We believe a variety of perspectives are not only welcome – they are essential to our success. Should you require any assistance applying for this opportunity, please contact us at [email protected]

**Applications close 24 February 2026. Shortlisting will commence immediately. Applicants must be eligible to work in New Zealand.

PLEASE NOTE: APPLICATIONS FROM AGENCIES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED