Dam Safety Engineer

Job Description

At TransAlta, we don’t just generate electricity-we generate opportunity. As one of Canada’s largest publicly traded power generators, we’ve been powering communities for over 100 years across Canada, the U.S., and Australia. Our diverse energy portfolio and passionate team are driving the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable future.

We believe in the power of purpose, the strength of collaboration, and the value of continuous learning. If you’re ready to make a real impact in a dynamic industry, you bring the energy and we’ll provide the platform.

For more information about TransAlta, visit our website at, www.transalta.com.

ABOUT THE ROLE

We have an exciting opportunity for an Intermediate Civil or Geotechnical Engineer to join our Dam Safety team. As the Dam Safety Engineer, you will be part of an engineering team providing technical and operational support to hydro dams across Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario. This role is based out of the Calgary office and requires occasional travel to the dams.

This is full-time salaried position, based out of our Head Office in Downtown Calgary, with the flexibility of a hybrid work schedule.

A DAY IN THE LIFE

Primary Responsibilities

• Support monitoring, interpretation, and troubleshooting of dam safety instrumentation, including slope inclinometers, piezometers, and weirs
• Conduct dam safety engineering inspections of dams and civil structures, including canals, spillways, intakes, weirs, and penstocks
• Carry out annual performance reporting on the dams, including data interpretation, identification of safety deficiencies, non-conformances, public safety issues, and potential failure modes
• Provide project coordination and technical support of the dam safety dive inspection, surveying, and gate testing programs

Secondary Responsibilities

• Provide supervision and project management for field work and for small-to-medium scale construction projects
• Support procurement of consultants and contractors for dam safety projects, including writing request-for-proposals, proposal evaluations, and invoice evaluations
• Support the Public Safety Management Program, including inspection and assessment of existing controls, writing and review of public safety management plans, assessment of public safety risk, and implementation of public safety booms and signage
• Support the development and exercise of emergency preparedness plans, flood action plans, and OM&S manuals
• Ensure dam safety practices are in accordance with standards, policies, and regulatory requirements
• Provide day-to-day technical support and work collaboratively with the extended dam safety team including water management, electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, and plant operators

ABOUT YOU

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Geological, or Geotechnical Engineering from a recognized university
• 5-10 years of relevant work experience
• Professional Engineer in good standing (or eligibility) with engineering regulatory bodies in Canada (APEGA, PEO, EGBC)
• Demonstrated knowledge and strong geotechnical understanding of dams which includes stability and seepage modeling, geotechnical design, geotechnical instrumentation analysis, dam safety reviews, dam condition assessment practices, and risk assessment
• Significant field experience which includes site investigations, site inspections, soil logging and testing, civil and earthworks construction, operations, surveillance, construction drawing production and review
• Skills in one or more of the following areas: concrete design and inspection, penstock design and inspection, seismic hazard analysis, GIS systems, inspection and maintenance of gates, deformation and numerical modeling, hydrology and/or surface drainage processes
• In-depth technical knowledge of CDA guidelines and dam safety practices in Canada
• Awareness and understanding of applicable regulations and legislations that apply to water retaining structures in Canada
• Knowledge of the practices and processes associated with project management, project engineering, and engineering design
• Ability to communicate effectively with internal and external clients which includes communicating complex ideas, cross-functional collaboration, and building relationships
• Ability to work on multiple projects concurrently
• A self-starter who can problem-solve and take ownership of their work
• Excellent attention to detail
• Valid driver’s license

OTHER DETAILS

• This position requires moderate travel (up to 20%) to hydro sites across Canada. Some sites have terrain that may be considered challenging. Field work may include confined spaces, working from heights, and inclement weather.
• The office environment requires working with computers and remaining seated for long periods of time
• This position is safety-sensitive therefore successful completion of required pre-employment testing is a condition of employment

THE PERKS

• Competitive salary
• Annual incentive program
• Pension plan with company-matching options
• Flexible benefits for you and your family
• Vacation and personal days
• Employee Rewards & Recognition Programs
• Annual Wellness Payment

Explore our Employee Experience Booklet on our Careers site to see how we support your growth and wellbeing.

OUR CULTURE

At TransAlta, we’re driven by a Culture of Results, Learning, and Purpose. We prioritize psychological safety, wellbeing, inclusion, and belonging - creating a space where everyone can thrive. We believe that diverse perspectives drive innovation and progress, and we’re committed to building a workplace where you can be your authentic self.

Ready to Power Up With Us? Excited about this role but don’t meet every single requirement? We still encourage you to apply. Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for a job unless they meet every single qualification. You might just be the candidate we are looking for.

WHAT TO EXPECT

The successful candidate may be required to complete background checks appropriate to the role and may include criminal record, education and employment verification or credit checks. ‘Safety sensitive positions’ will be required to complete pre-employment testing.

Due to the high volume of applications we receive, only those progressing will be contacted.