Geotechnical Engineer - Mining Support

Placements24; Willows (CA); Hybrid; USD 54,000 - 84,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Medical aid & retirement fund

Professional development and training

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Geotechnical Engineer in Welkom, Free State to support mining operations with soil and rock mechanics, slope stability and ground support design. You will collaborate with mine planning and operations teams, assess geotechnical risks, and develop mitigation strategies in a hybrid work model.

The role requires a BEng/BSc in Geotechnical, Civil, or Mining Engineering, 6+ years of experience, and preferably ECSA registration.

Qualifications

• Bachelor degree in Geotechnical, Civil or Mining Engineering from a recognized university.
• 6+ years of geotechnical engineering experience, preferably in mining.
• Professional registration with ECSA (Pr. Eng. or Pr. Sci. Nat.) is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Conduct geotechnical investigations and analyses for mine infrastructure.
• Develop and implement geotechnical monitoring programs for ground stability.
• Provide technical recommendations for slope stability, excavation design, and ground support.
• Perform risk assessments related to geotechnical hazards and mitigation plans.
• Collaborate with geologists, mining engineers and other specialists to integrate data into mine planning.
• Prepare detailed geotechnical reports, design documents and specifications.
• Oversee geotechnical aspects of on-site activities in Welkom.
• Stay updated with new geotechnical methods and technologies for mining.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations and environmental standards in the Free State.

Skills

Geotechnical engineering

Soil mechanics

Rock mechanics

Hydrogeology

Rocscience software

GeoStudio

Project management

Technical reporting

Communication

Teamwork

Education

BEng or BSc in Geotechnical/Civil/Mining Engineering

Tools

Rocscience suite

GeoStudio

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the mining sector, is seeking an experienced Geotechnical Engineer to join their team in **Welkom**, **Free State**. This role is crucial for ensuring the stability and safety of mining operations, focusing on soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and foundation engineering within the demanding mining environment of the **Free State** province. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of the unique geotechnical challenges faced in mining and be adept at providing practical, innovative solutions. You will work closely with mine planning and operations teams to assess risks and implement mitigation strategies. Our client prides itself on its commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and technological advancement in all its operations, making this a challenging and rewarding opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct geotechnical investigations and analyses for mine infrastructure, including open pits, underground workings, and tailings facilities.
• Develop and implement geotechnical monitoring programs to assess ground stability.
• Provide technical recommendations for slope stability, excavation design, and ground support systems.
• Perform risk assessments related to geotechnical hazards and develop mitigation plans.
• Collaborate with geologists, mining engineers, and other specialists to integrate geotechnical data into mine planning.
• Prepare detailed geotechnical reports, design documents, and technical specifications.
• Oversee geotechnical aspects of construction and operational activities on-site in **Welkom**.
• Stay abreast of new technologies and methodologies in geotechnical engineering relevant to mining.
• Ensure compliance with all safety regulations and environmental standards in the **Free State**.

Requirements

• BEng or BSc in Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or Mining Engineering from a recognized university.
• Professional registration with ECSA (as Pr. Eng. or Pr. Sci. Nat.) is highly advantageous.
• Minimum of 6 years of relevant experience in geotechnical engineering, preferably within the mining industry.
• Strong knowledge of soil and rock mechanics, hydrogeology, and geological principles.
• Experience with geotechnical software (e.g., Rocscience suite, GeoStudio) is essential.
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects and provide sound technical advice.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and report-writing skills.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities.
• Must be able to work effectively in a hybrid model, potentially spending time on-site in **Welkom** and remotely.
• Willingness to travel to mine sites within the Free State as needed.

Benefits

• This position offers a competitive salary and benefits package designed to attract top talent.
• Benefits include a performance bonus, comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions, and extensive opportunities for professional development and training.
• Our client fosters a culture of safety and innovation, providing a stable and progressive career path.
• This role in **Welkom** allows you to make a significant impact on critical mining operations in the **Free State**.