Geotechnical Engineer - Construction Projects

Placements24; Queenstown; Hybrid; NZD 75,000 - 107,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Career progression

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Queenstown is seeking a Geotechnical Engineer to lead investigations, analyze subsurface data and advise on foundation design and earthworks for construction projects.

You will collaborate with structural and civil engineers to ensure long-term stability and safety, with travel to various sites within the region and beyond as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor degree in Civil Engineering with geotechnical specialization.
• Master's degree preferred.
• Min 4 years of geotechnical experience in construction.
• Proficient in PLAXIS and GeoStudio.
• Solid understanding of soil and rock mechanics.
• Excellent report writing and communication skills.
• Willingness to travel to project sites.

Responsibilities

• Plan and supervise geotechnical site investigations (bores, trial pits, in-situ tests).
• Interpret geotechnical data from site investigations and lab tests.
• Perform geotechnical analyses (foundation design, slope stability, settlement).
• Prepare geotechnical investigation reports and design recommendations.
• Collaborate with structural and civil engineers to integrate findings.
• Advise on earthworks, pavement design and ground improvement.
• Review contractor proposals related to earthworks and foundations.
• Ensure compliance with geotechnical standards and environmental regs.
• Provide on-site technical support during construction phases.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of geotechnical advances.

Skills

Soil mechanics

Rock mechanics

Geotechnical analysis

Site investigations

Report writing

Communication

Education

Bachelors in Civil Engineering (Geotechnical)

Master's degree preferred

Tools

PLAXIS

GeoStudio

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a reputable engineering consultancy deeply involved in major construction projects, is seeking a skilled Geotechnical Engineer to join their team serving the Queenstown, Eastern Cape region. This role is essential for assessing ground conditions and providing expert advice on foundation design, slope stability, and earthworks for a variety of construction initiatives. The ideal candidate will possess a strong theoretical foundation in soil mechanics and rock mechanics, coupled with practical experience in site investigations and laboratory testing. You will be responsible for interpreting subsurface data, developing geotechnical recommendations, and collaborating with structural and civil engineers to ensure the long-term stability and safety of structures. This position requires analytical prowess and a commitment to rigorous engineering practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and supervise geotechnical site investigations, including boreholes, trial pits, and in-situ testing.
• Interpret geotechnical data from site investigations and laboratory tests.
• Perform geotechnical analyses, including foundation design (shallow and deep), slope stability analysis, and settlement predictions.
• Prepare comprehensive geotechnical investigation reports and provide design recommendations.
• Collaborate with structural and civil engineers to integrate geotechnical findings into project designs.
• Advise on earthworks, pavement design, and ground improvement techniques.
• Review contractor proposals related to earthworks and foundation construction.
• Ensure compliance with relevant geotechnical standards, codes of practice, and environmental regulations.
• Provide on-site technical support during construction phases related to geotechnical aspects.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of geotechnical engineering advancements and best practices.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering with a specialization in Geotechnical Engineering.
• A Master's degree is highly preferred.
• A minimum of 4 years of relevant experience in geotechnical engineering, particularly within the construction sector.
• Proficiency in geotechnical software for analysis and modeling (e.g., PLAXIS, GeoStudio suite).
• Solid understanding of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and foundation engineering principles.
• Experience with site investigation techniques and laboratory testing interpretation.
• Excellent report writing and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Professional registration with ECSA as a Pr.Eng or TechniEng is advantageous.
• Must be willing to travel to various project sites within the Queenstown, Eastern Cape region and occasionally beyond.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and retirement fund, and opportunities for professional development and career progression.

You will work on challenging and diverse projects, contributing to the development of critical infrastructure. Join a highly respected engineering firm that values technical expertise and provides a supportive work environment.