Lead Geotechnical Engineer - Mining & Energy Infrastructure

Placements24; Riverton (UT); On-site; USD 73,000 - 128,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance bonus

Medical aid

Retirement annuity

Generous leave

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Lead Geotechnical Engineer for challenging energy and mining infrastructure projects in Upington, Northern Cape. You will lead investigations, design, and reporting, advancing safety and engineering integrity across multi-disciplinary teams.

The role requires a Master’s/PhD in geotechnical engineering, Pr. Eng registration, and 10+ years of related experience, with travel to project sites as needed.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Geotechnical/Civil Engineering or closely related field.
• At least 10 years of progressive geotechnical experience in mining/energy infrastructure.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng) registration with ECSA or equivalent.
• Experience leading geotechnical teams and managing complex projects.
• Proficiency in PLAXIS, GeoStudio, SLOPE/W, SEEP/W and related tools.
• Solid knowledge of South African geotechnical standards and regulations.
• Experience in Upington or similar challenging geologies is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead geotechnical aspects of energy and mining infrastructure projects from concept to completion.
• Develop and execute geotechnical investigation plans including site surveys and lab tests.
• Perform advanced analyses: slope stability, foundation design, seismic, ground improvement.
• Prepare detailed reports, specs, and drawings for regulatory approval.
• Provide guidance to a geotechnical team of engineers and technicians.
• Liaise with clients, contractors, regulators, and stakeholders to meet requirements.
• Oversee QA/QC and mitigation of geotechnical hazards.
• Stay updated on latest geotechnical methods and technologies.

Skills

Leadership of geotechnical teams

Report writing & communication

Willingness to travel

Education

Master's or PhD in Geotechnical/Civil Engineering

Tools

PLAXIS

GeoStudio

SLOPE/W

SEEP/W

Job description

About the Role Our client, a major player in the South African energy and mining infrastructure development sector, is seeking a highly experienced Lead Geotechnical Engineer for their operations in Upington, Northern Cape . This senior position is critical for ensuring the stability and safety of large-scale projects, including power generation facilities and associated infrastructure. The Lead Geotechnical Engineer will be responsible for overseeing all geotechnical investigations, analyses, and designs, ensuring that projects are executed to the highest standards of safety and engineering integrity. This role requires a strategic thinker with exceptional leadership skills and a deep understanding of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and foundation engineering in challenging environments. You will play a vital part in the successful delivery of projects that are crucial to the region's energy security and economic development.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all geotechnical aspects of energy and mining infrastructure projects from conception to completion.
• Develop and implement comprehensive geotechnical investigation plans, including site investigations, laboratory testing, and data analysis.
• Perform advanced geotechnical analyses, including slope stability, foundation design, seismic analysis, and ground improvement techniques.
• Prepare detailed geotechnical reports, specifications, and design drawings for regulatory approval and construction.
• Provide expert technical guidance and supervision to a team of geotechnical engineers and technicians.
• Liaise with clients, contractors, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders to ensure project requirements are met.
• Oversee the implementation of geotechnical construction quality control and assurance measures.
• Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies for geotechnical hazards.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in geotechnical engineering and relevant technologies.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in geotechnical engineering, with a significant focus on infrastructure projects in the mining and energy sectors.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng) registration with ECSA or equivalent international registration.
• Proven experience in leading geotechnical teams and managing complex projects.
• Expertise in geotechnical software such as PLAXIS, GeoStudio, SLOPE/W, SEEP/W, etc.
• Comprehensive understanding of South African geotechnical standards and regulations.
• Experience in the Upington, Northern Cape region or similar challenging geological settings is highly desirable.
• Excellent report writing, presentation, and communication skills.
• Ability to travel to project sites as required.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary package commensurate with experience, including performance bonuses and a comprehensive medical aid plan. Professional development is strongly encouraged, with support for further training, professional body memberships, and conference participation. You will have the opportunity to work on landmark projects that define the infrastructure landscape of the Northern Cape. We also provide a retirement annuity and a generous leave policy. The role involves significant technical leadership and the chance to mentor a team of talented engineers, contributing to their growth and development within the organization. Our client fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration, providing a stimulating work environment.