Geotechnical Engineer - Underground Mining Stability

Placements24; Willows (CA); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 79,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Comprehensive medical coverage

Retirement fund

Professional development

Culture of safety

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Geotechnical Engineer to join a major underground mining operation in Welkom, Free State. The role focuses on stability and safety of underground mine workings, including stopes, development ends, and shaft infrastructure.

You will conduct geological and geotechnical investigations, analyze rock mass properties, and design ground support systems while managing geotechnical risks and advising on excavation stability.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering, Civil Engineering with a specialization in Geotechnical Engineering, or equivalent.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in geotechnical engineering, with a strong focus on underground mining applications.
• Proficiency in geotechnical analysis software (e.g., Map3D, RS2, FLAC).
• Solid understanding of rock mechanics, geomechanics, and structural geology.
• Experience with ground support design and installation methods.
• Knowledge of geotechnical instrumentation and monitoring techniques.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including report writing.
• Ability to work effectively underground and collaborate with various site personnel.
• Commitment to health, safety, and environmental best practices in Welkom, Free State.

Responsibilities

• Conduct geotechnical assessments of underground excavations, including stability analysis and risk evaluation.
• Design and implement appropriate ground support systems (e.g., rock bolts, mesh, shotcrete) for various mining conditions.
• Plan and supervise geotechnical investigations, including drilling, in-situ testing, and laboratory testing.
• Analyze rock mass characteristics, stress conditions, and failure mechanisms.
• Monitor ground conditions using instrumentation and regular site inspections.
• Provide expert geotechnical advice to mine planning, engineering, and operations teams.
• Develop and implement geotechnical management plans and procedures.
• Investigate geotechnical incidents and recommend corrective actions.
• Contribute to the development of mine design and sequencing from a geotechnical perspective.
• Maintain accurate geotechnical databases and records.

Job description

About the Role Our client, a major underground mining operation , is seeking a highly skilled Geotechnical Engineer to join their technical services team in Welkom, Free State . This role is vital for ensuring the stability and safety of underground mine workings, including stopes, development ends, and shaft infrastructure. The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting geological and geotechnical investigations, analyzing rock mass properties, and designing appropriate ground support systems. You will play a key role in managing geotechnical risks, providing expert advice on excavation stability, and contributing to safe and efficient mining practices. This is an excellent opportunity to work on challenging underground mining projects in a well-established mining district. Our client is committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety and operational integrity, and this role is central to achieving those goals. You will collaborate closely with mine planning, operations, and safety departments to implement best practices in geotechnical engineering within the Welkom mining environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct geotechnical assessments of underground excavations, including stability analysis and risk evaluation.
• Design and implement appropriate ground support systems (e.g., rock bolts, mesh, shotcrete) for various mining conditions.
• Plan and supervise geotechnical investigations, including drilling, in-situ testing, and laboratory testing.
• Analyze rock mass characteristics, stress conditions, and failure mechanisms.
• Monitor ground conditions using instrumentation and regular site inspections.
• Provide expert geotechnical advice to mine planning, engineering, and operations teams.
• Develop and implement geotechnical management plans and procedures.
• Investigate geotechnical incidents and recommend corrective actions.
• Contribute to the development of mine design and sequencing from a geotechnical perspective.
• Maintain accurate geotechnical databases and records.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering, Civil Engineering with a specialization in Geotechnical Engineering, or equivalent.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in geotechnical engineering, with a strong focus on underground mining applications.
• Proficiency in geotechnical analysis software (e.g., Map3D, RS2, FLAC).
• Solid understanding of rock mechanics, geomechanics, and structural geology.
• Experience with ground support design and installation methods.
• Knowledge of geotechnical instrumentation and monitoring techniques.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including report writing.
• Ability to work effectively underground and collaborate with various site personnel.
• Commitment to health, safety, and environmental best practices in Welkom, Free State .

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package, including performance incentives.
• Comprehensive medical coverage and retirement fund.
• Opportunities for professional development and further specialization.
• Exposure to diverse geological conditions and mining methods.
• A key role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of underground operations.
• Supportive team environment with experienced professionals.
• Potential for career growth within a reputable mining group.
• Site-based role with regular access to operational challenges.
• Company-provided accommodation and transport options may be available.
• Contribution to a culture of safety excellence in mining.