Principal Geotechnical Engineer - Mining & Civil Applications

Placements24; Willows (CA); On-site; USD 61,000 - 109,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Bonuses

Training & conferences

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Geotechnical Engineer to lead complex mining geotechnical investigations and design high‑risk ground support solutions. Based in Welkom, you will mentor a multidisciplinary team and provide expert advice on mine infrastructure, slope stability, and tailings facilities.

The role requires a Master’s or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering and Pr.Eng. registration, with 15+ years in mining, strong leadership, and familiarity with South African regulations.

Qualifications

• Master's or Doctoral degree in Geotechnical Engineering or related field.
• Professional registration as Pr.Eng. with ECSA or international equivalent.
• 15+ years progressive geotechnical experience in mining projects.
• Expertise in slope stability, tailings, and mine design.

Responsibilities

• Lead large-scale geotechnical investigations for mining operations.
• Design stable slopes, dumps, and tailings facilities.
• Perform seismic and ground movement analyses.
• Provide field supervision and mentor engineers and geologists.
• Review reports, designs, and construction plans; engage with clients.

Skills

Geotechnical Eng

Team leadership

Mining industry experience

Education

Master's or Doctoral in Geotechnical Engineering

Pr.Eng. with ECSA or equivalent

Tools

Slide

RS2

Maptek Vulcan

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly respected engineering firm with extensive operations in the mining sector, is looking for a distinguished Principal Geotechnical Engineer to be based in Welkom . This senior role involves leading complex geotechnical investigations, designing solutions for challenging ground conditions, and providing expert advice on a wide range of mining and civil engineering projects. You will be instrumental in ensuring the safety, stability, and efficiency of mine infrastructure and related civil works throughout the Free State. This is a unique opportunity to apply your specialized knowledge in a critical industry, mentor a team of geologists and engineers, and significantly influence project outcomes in the Welkom area and beyond. The successful candidate will possess a deep understanding of rock mechanics, soil behavior, and slope stability analysis, coupled with extensive experience in the mining industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Leading and managing large-scale geotechnical investigations for open-pit and underground mining operations.
• Designing and overseeing the implementation of stable mine slopes, waste rock dumps, and tailings storage facilities.
• Conducting advanced analyses for seismic hazards, liquefaction potential, and ground-induced settlements.
• Providing expert technical guidance on foundation design for heavy industrial structures and mining infrastructure.
• Developing risk management strategies for geotechnical hazards.
• Mentoring and supervising a team of geotechnical engineers, geologists, and technicians.
• Collaborating with mining engineers, metallurgists, and environmental scientists to ensure integrated project planning.
• Reviewing and approving geotechnical reports, design documents, and construction plans.
• Representing the company in client meetings, technical reviews, and potentially in legal or expert witness capacities.
• Staying abreast of the latest advancements in geotechnical engineering and mining technologies.

Requirements

• A Master's or Doctoral degree in Geotechnical Engineering or a related field.
• Professional registration as a Pr.Eng. with ECSA or equivalent international recognition.
• Over 15 years of progressive experience in geotechnical engineering, with a significant portion dedicated to the mining industry.
• Demonstrated expertise in slope stability analysis, tailings management, and mine design considerations.
• Proficiency in specialized geotechnical software such as Slide, RS2, Maptek Vulcan, or similar.
• Extensive experience with geotechnical site investigations, including drilling, CPT, and in-situ testing methods.
• In-depth knowledge of South African mining regulations and geotechnical best practices.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and guide multi-disciplinary teams.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities.
• Willingness to undertake site visits to various mining locations around Welkom .

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive, highly competitive salary package reflective of a Principal Engineer's expertise, complemented by comprehensive benefits including top-tier medical aid, a substantial retirement fund, and potential for performance-based bonuses. We are dedicated to fostering an environment of continuous professional development and offer opportunities for advanced training and conference participation. This role provides a unique platform to lead significant projects within the mining sector and contribute to the safe and efficient operation of facilities in Welkom and beyond. Join a team renowned for its technical prowess and commitment to excellence.