Geotechnical Engineer - Mining and Infrastructure

Placements24; Riverton (UT); On-site; USD 42,000 - 67,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Pension fund

Company vehicle

Job summary

Placements24 in Upington, Northern Cape, South Africa, seeks a Geotechnical Engineer with 5+ years of experience to lead investigations, design earthworks, foundations, and slope stability for mining and infrastructure projects. You will perform site investigations, analyze soil and rock data, and provide recommendations, using Plaxis and SLOPE/W.

Travel to project sites and collaboration with clients and teams are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Geotechnical or Civil Engineering.
• Professional Engineer (PrEng) registration with ECSA desirable.
• Minimum 5 years of geotechnical experience.
• Experience in the mining or infrastructure sectors is advantageous.
• Proficiency in geotechnical analysis software.
• Strong soil, rock, and foundation engineering knowledge.
• Excellent report writing and communication skills.
• Willingness to travel to project sites and valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute geotechnical investigations (site reconnaissance, drilling, in-situ testing).
• Analyze soil and rock data to assess ground conditions.
• Perform stability analyses for slopes, foundations, earth structures.
• Design foundations, retaining walls, and other geotechnical structures.
• Prepare investigation reports and design recommendations.
• Liaise with clients and project teams.
• Ensure compliance with geotechnical standards and codes.
• Support construction phase with technical input.
• Use geotechnical software for modeling (Plaxis, SLOPE/W).
• Contribute to proposals and business development.

Skills

Geotechnical analysis

Soil mechanics

Rock mechanics

Report writing

Project coordination

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Geotechnical/Civil Engineering

Tools

Plaxis

SLOPE/W

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a leading geotechnical consultancy firm providing specialized services to the mining and infrastructure sectors. They are seeking a skilled and experienced Geotechnical Engineer to join their team in **Upington, Northern Cape**. This role focuses on the investigation, analysis, and design of earthworks, foundations, and slope stability for complex projects. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, proficiency in geotechnical software, and a thorough understanding of soil and rock mechanics. You will be responsible for conducting site investigations, interpreting data, and providing expert recommendations to clients. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to significant projects in a region known for its mining and infrastructure development, and to advance your career within a respected organization. The position requires a hands‑on approach with both field and office‑based responsibilities. Our client is committed to technical excellence and safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and execute geotechnical investigations, including site reconnaissance, drilling, and in‑situ testing.
• Analyze soil and rock mechanics data to assess ground conditions.
• Perform stability analyses for slopes, foundations, and earth structures.
• Design foundations (shallow and deep), retaining walls, and other geotechnical structures.
• Prepare detailed geotechnical investigation reports and design recommendations.
• Liaise with clients, project managers, and other engineering disciplines.
• Ensure compliance with relevant geotechnical standards and codes of practice.
• Provide technical support during the construction phase of projects.
• Utilize specialized geotechnical software for modeling and analysis (e.g., Plaxis, SLOPE/W).
• Contribute to proposals and business development activities.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
• Professional Engineer (PrEng) registration with ECSA is highly desirable.
• A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in geotechnical engineering.
• Experience in the mining or infrastructure sectors is a significant advantage.
• Proficiency in geotechnical analysis software.
• Strong understanding of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and foundation engineering principles.
• Excellent report writing and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Experience working in the **Upington, Northern Cape** region or similar environments is a plus.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to project sites.

Benefits

• An annual salary of R , dependent on qualifications and experience.
• Performance bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid coverage.
• Pension fund benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
• Involvement in challenging and impactful geotechnical projects.
• Company vehicle or travel allowance.