Geotechnical Engineer - Geotechnical Investigations

Placements24; Willows (CA); Hybrid; USD 43,000 - 67,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Hybrid role

Job summary

Our client, a reputable engineering and environmental consultancy, seeks a Geotechnical Engineer to bolster their team in Welkom, Free State. You will conduct geotechnical investigations, analyze soil and rock properties, and develop foundation designs and ground improvement strategies.

The role combines fieldwork and office analysis in a hybrid setup with opportunities for travel within the Free State. A Bachelor's in Civil/Geotechnical Engineering and 5+ years' experience are required, with

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil or Geotechnical Engineering required.
• 5+ years of geotechnical engineering experience focusing on site investigations and foundation design.
• Proficiency with geotechnical analysis software (PLAXIS, GeoStudio, SLOPE/W).
• Pr. Eng. registration with ECSA preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Plan, coordinate, and execute geotechnical investigations (site reconnaissance, pits, boreholes).
• Oversee soil/rock sampling and laboratory testing.
• Interpret data and perform analyses for foundation design, slope stability, and earthworks.

Skills

Geotech investigations

Foundation design

Data analysis

Report writing

Education

Bachelor's in Civil/Geotechnical

Master's degree (advantageous)

Tools

PLAXIS

GeoStudio

SLOPE/W

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a reputable engineering and environmental consultancy, is seeking a skilled Geotechnical Engineer to bolster their team in Welkom, Free State . This role is crucial for undertaking comprehensive geotechnical investigations and providing expert advice for a variety of infrastructure and construction projects. You will be involved in assessing ground conditions, analyzing soil and rock mechanics, and developing foundation designs and ground improvement strategies. The position demands a blend of field experience and analytical expertise. This is an excellent opportunity for a geotechnical professional to contribute to significant developments within the Free State province, working on projects ranging from commercial buildings to civil infrastructure. The hybrid nature of this role allows for focused work both in the office and from a remote location, ensuring flexibility.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, execute, and manage geotechnical investigations, including site reconnaissance, trial pitting, and borehole drilling.
• Oversee the collection and testing of soil and rock samples in the laboratory.
• Interpret subsurface investigation data and perform engineering analyses for foundation design, slope stability, and earthworks.
• Prepare detailed geotechnical reports, including recommendations for foundation types, bearing capacities, and ground improvement techniques.
• Develop engineering designs for shallow and deep foundations, retaining walls, and embankments.
• Liaise with clients, contractors, and regulatory bodies to communicate geotechnical findings and recommendations.
• Ensure all geotechnical work complies with relevant engineering standards and codes of practice.
• Provide technical support during the construction phase, assisting with the implementation of geotechnical designs and resolving site issues.
• Contribute to the development of proposals and cost estimates for geotechnical projects.
• Willingness to travel to project sites within the Free State and surrounding areas for site investigations.
• Valid driver's license.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or Geotechnical Engineering.
• A Master's degree is advantageous.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in geotechnical engineering, with a strong emphasis on site investigations and foundation design.
• Proven experience with geotechnical software for analysis and design (e.g., PLAXIS, GeoStudio, SLOPE/W).
• Familiarity with South African geotechnical standards and guidelines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with meticulous attention to detail.
• Good report writing and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, managing multiple tasks effectively.
• Willingness to travel to project sites within the Free State and surrounding areas for site investigations.
• Valid driver's license.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid and retirement fund options. We are committed to fostering a learning environment with opportunities for professional development and continuing education. This hybrid role provides a balance between on-site collaboration and remote flexibility, supporting work-life integration. Our client values its employees and offers a supportive team culture focused on delivering high-quality engineering solutions in Welkom and beyond. You will have the opportunity to work on diverse and challenging projects that contribute to the region's infrastructure development.