Senior Geotechnical Engineer - Mining & Infrastructure

Placements24; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 98,000 - 163,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid

Life insurance

Retirement provisions

Professional development support

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Geotechnical Engineer to lead geotechnical investigations and design for mining and large infrastructure projects in Queenstown, Eastern Cape. You will manage teams, deliver detailed reports, and liaise with clients to ensure project success.

The ideal candidate has a B.Sc./M.Sc. in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering, ECSA registration, and 8+ years of mining/infrastructure experience with proficiency in PLAXIS and GEOSTUDIO.

Qualifications

• B.Sc. or M.Sc. in Civil Engineering or Geotechnical Engineering from a recognized institution.
• Professional registration with ECSA (or eligibility) is essential.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive geotechnical engineering experience, with mining/infrastructure focus.
• Proficient in geotechnical software such as PLAXIS and GEOSTUDIO.
• Strong knowledge of soil and rock mechanics; project leadership experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead geotechnical investigations, including planning, execution, and interpretation of field and laboratory tests.
• Design foundations (shallow and deep), retaining walls, slopes, tunnels, and other geotechnical structures.
• Perform stability analyses, settlement predictions, and seismic hazard assessments.
• Prepare detailed geotechnical reports, drawings, and specifications.
• Manage project teams, timelines, and budgets for geotechnical projects.
• Mentor and supervise junior geotechnical engineers and technicians.
• Ensure compliance with engineering standards, codes, and safety regulations.
• Assist in business development and client relationship management.

Skills

Geotechnical engineering

Project leadership

Soil mechanics

Rock mechanics

Report writing

Client liaison

Education

BSc/MSc in Geotechnical/Civil Engineering

Tools

PLAXIS

GEOSTUDIO

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a premier engineering consultancy firm providing specialized geotechnical solutions for mining and large-scale infrastructure projects across the region. We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Geotechnical Engineer to join our team in Queenstown, Eastern Cape . This role is vital for providing expert geotechnical advice, conducting complex site investigations, and designing safe and efficient foundations, slopes, and earth structures. You will lead challenging projects, manage project teams, and liaise with clients to ensure successful project delivery. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and foundation engineering, with a proven track record in the mining or heavy civil infrastructure sectors. Join our respected firm and contribute to significant projects in Queenstown, Eastern Cape .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead geotechnical investigations, including planning, execution, and interpretation of field and laboratory tests.
• Design foundations (shallow and deep), retaining walls, slopes, tunnels, and other geotechnical structures.
• Perform stability analyses, settlement predictions, and seismic hazard assessments.
• Prepare detailed geotechnical reports, drawings, and specifications.
• Manage project teams, timelines, and budgets for geotechnical projects.
• Provide expert advice and technical support to clients and project stakeholders.
• Mentor and supervise junior geotechnical engineers and technicians.
• Ensure compliance with relevant engineering standards, codes, and safety regulations.
• Assist in business development and client relationship management.

Requirements

• B.Sc. or M.Sc. in Civil Engineering or Geotechnical Engineering from a recognized institution.
• Professional registration with ECSA (or eligibility for registration) is essential.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in geotechnical engineering, with a significant portion focused on mining or infrastructure projects.
• Proven experience in geotechnical investigation, analysis, and design.
• Proficiency in geotechnical software such as PLAXIS, GEOSTUDIO suite, or similar.
• Strong understanding of soil and rock mechanics principles.
• Experience in managing complex projects and leading technical teams.
• Excellent report writing, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of South African mining practices and regulatory frameworks is an advantage.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, a comprehensive benefits program including medical aid, life insurance, and retirement provisions.
• We provide significant opportunities for professional development and continuing education, including support for advanced training and professional certifications.
• The role is based in Queenstown, Eastern Cape .
• You will be part of a reputable firm with a strong commitment to technical excellence and client satisfaction, working on impactful projects.