Rio Tinto is a leading international mining group headquartered in the UK. Rio Tinto's business is finding, mining and processing mineral resources. Major products are aluminum, copper, iron ore, diamonds, energy (coal and uranium), gold, and industrial minerals (borax, titanium dioxide, salt, talc). Activities span the world but are strongly represented in Australia and North America with businesses in South America, Asia, Europe and Southern Africa.

Our people, our most valuable resource… are presented with unparalleled challenges with our transition to underground, unique ice road transport system, and dikes holding back the waters of the pristine Lac de Gras. We strive for business improvement to contribute value to our investors. We are a leader in safety awareness, sustainable development, environmental stewardship, aboriginal relations and community benefits.

On the edge of the Arctic, in the heart of the wilderness, you will find Canada's premier diamond producer, Diavik Diamond Mine. Located 300 kms northeast of Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, Diavik has been an open pit mine since 2003 and received approval for its underground project in 2007. Our underground mine is currently in development, is due to go into production in 2009 and has a mine life extending into 2023. Going forward, the main methods of mining the three kimberlite pipes will be underhand cut and fill and blast hole stope.

Reporting to the Supervisor, Plant, the Control Room Operator will be located at Lac de Gras on a two (2) weeks on/ two (2) weeks off rotational basis. The incumbent is responsible for operating and monitoring the plant via a computer-based control system to ensure maximum production within equipment operational specifications and operational safety requirements.

The Control Room Operator will be responsible for, but not limited to:

• Monitoring the computer-based control system within its design parameters;
• Coordinating operations in a timely and effective manner with underground operations and technical services, paste technical support crews, mine operations and plant maintenance;
• Daily reporting requirements;
• Participating in the crusher and paste plant progression plan by training relief control room operators;
• Mentoring the team in understanding and adhering to policies and procedures;
• Encouraging a strong safety culture within the crusher and processing plant;
• Participating inprojects as directed by the Supervisor.

Above all, the successful candidate will be one whose #1 priority is safety in the workplace. The incumbent will have Certification as a CRO operator at the DDMI processing plant, First Aid, CPR and WHMIS Certification, and a NWT Mine Supervisor Level I Cetification are are preferred. A Diploma in Civil Engineering Technology or Mineral Processing is preferred. Literacy and numeracy skills are required for the position. The incumbent will have a minimum of four (4) years of Plant Operator experienced and two (2) years of Control Room Operator experience in a plant, crushing plant, concrete batch plant or ore processing plant. Other combinations of education/experience may be considered.

Northern residency and experience working in a cross-cultural environment, coupled with knowledge of the unique challenges and opportunities presented to those living in the North, are assets.

If this position interests you and you have the experience and qualifications we are looking for, please submit an on-line application no later than Monday July 20, 2009.