Lead Autonomous Haulage Systems Engineer

About Mesabi Metallics

When you join the team at Mesabi Metallics you become part of a pioneering group advancing sustainable mining practices and driving innovation in the iron ore industry. Our commitment extends to providing a safe work environment supporting environmental stewardship and generatingvaluefor all stakeholders. You will be joining us at a pivotal moment in Minnesotas mining history: Mesabi Metallics cutting-edge iron ore mining and pelletization project is currently under construction. Once completed it will mark the first new mine and pellet plant in Minnesota in nearly 50 years.

More importantly youll be immersed in a positive supportive work environment that values your contributions and fosters your professional growth. Our culture is shaped by our core values which are sustainability integrity inclusivity innovation teamwork determination and performance and our employees are empowered to make a difference every day.

At Mesabi Metallics you are part of a legacy of excellence playing a key role in shaping the future of global infrastructure and industry.

Position Summary

We are seeking a Lead Autonomous Haulage Systems Engineer to spearhead the design implementation and commissioning of an Autonomous Haulage System (AHS) for our Taconite Mine Operation in Minnesotas Mesabi Iron Range. The system will utilize 400-ton haul trucks (e.g. Komatsu 980E-4AT) in coordination with the Komatsu PC7000 shovel. This is a hands on strategic leadership role focused on developing a reliable technical and operational framework tailored to the abrasive taconite ore and the regions extreme environmental conditions including sup-zero temperatures. Working closely with teams across mine planning IT operations maintenance and OEM partners like Komatsu the engineer will ensure seamless AHS integration full MSHA compliance and secure IT/OT infrastructure to manage cybersecurity risks. Additionally the engineer will lead workforce training initiatives and support sustainability goals through improved fuel efficiency and system optimization.

Job Responsibilities

Reporting to the Chief Operating Officer the Lead Autonomous Haulage Systems Engineer will be responsible for the following:

• Design and integrate AHS platformfor taconite mining cybersecurity for AHS andintegration with fleet management systems (FMS).
• Oversee AHS deployment ensuring compatibility with fleet management systems.
• Ensure MSHA compliance and implement safety features (e.g. obstacle detection).
• Develop secure IT/OT networks to mitigate cybersecurity risks.
• Monitor KPIs (e.g. equipment utilization productivity safety) using analytics.
• Collaborate with Komatsu and internal teams to establish site layout traffic rules and interaction protocols.
• Optimize routes for fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
• Create operational safety and emergency response frameworks specific to autonomous haulage.
• Manage vendor relationships site integration and testing/commissioning milestones.
• Ensure system performance meets safety productivity and reliability standards through commissioning and ramp-up.
• Develop training materials SOPs and change management processes for autonomous operations.
• Serve as liaison between operations maintenance IT and OEM support for ongoing system performance.

Skills and Qualifications

• 7 years of mining or heavy industrial experience(experience with AHS platforms taconite mining IT/OT systems and cybersecurity preferred).
• Knowledge of MSHA regulations and safety protocols.
• Experience building teams in a start-up or brownfield mine environment.
• Familiarity with fleet management systems (FMS) SCADA or mine automation platforms.
• Project management certification (PMP or equivalent) preferred.
• Excellent problem-solving communication and leadership skills.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced high-risk environment.

Education

• Bachelors degree in Mine Engineering Systems Engineering Electrical Engineering Mechanical Engineering Computer Systems or a related field.

Physical Requirements

• This position is a mixture of field work and office duties. Exposure to the elements (rain snow cold heat etc.) is to be expected. Office duties will require work in front of a laptop desk and phone.

Salary

• $130000 - $170000 annually depending on experience and qualifications.

Benefits

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage with an HSA option.
• Retirement Plan: 401(k) with 6% company match.
• Lincoln STD LTD & Life Insurance: Coverage provided by Mesabi Metallics.
• Paid Time Off (PTO):
  • 0-5 Years: 120 hours per year.
  • 5-10 Years: 160 hours per year.
  • 10 Years: 200 hours per year.
  • Plus 9 paid holiday and 2 floating holidays.

Mesabi Metallics Company LLC is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where all employees feel valued respected and empowered to contribute to our success.