Principal Geotechnical Engineer - Surface and Underground

Placements24; United States; Remote; USD 140,000 - 200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus opportunities

Health, dental, vision insurance

Retirement plan with company matching

Professional development opportunities

Flexible remote work

Exposure to international projects

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Geotechnical Engineer for a fully remote, senior role delivering expert geotechnical solutions for global mining projects. You will lead technical assessments, model critical stability problems, and guide design for open-pit and underground operations.

You will collaborate with project teams worldwide, mentor junior engineers, and ensure high-quality reports while traveling internationally on occasion.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in geotechnical or civil engineering required.
• 10+ years of mining geotechnical experience desired.
• Proficiency in slope stability analysis, underground design, and ground support.
• Strong skills in geotechnical software Rocscience or FLAC.

Responsibilities

• Provide geotechnical assessments and design for open-pit and underground projects.
• Develop and implement geotechnical investigation programs and testing.
• Perform advanced numerical modeling of stability problems.
• Prepare comprehensive geotechnical reports, specs, and guidelines.
• Mentor junior geotechnical engineers and share knowledge.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate geotechnical into mine planning.
• Review and approve designs and reports from internal/external sources.
• Stay updated on advances in geotechnical engineering and mining tech.
• Travel internationally for client meetings or site visits as needed.

Skills

Rock mechanics

Soil mechanics

Slope stability

Education

Master's degree in Geotechnical/Civil Engineering

PhD in Geotechnical Engineering

Tools

Rocscience Slide

Rocscience Phase2

Rocscience UnWedge

FLAC

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leading international mining consultancy, is seeking a distinguished Principal Geotechnical Engineer to join their fully remote team. This senior role is instrumental in providing expert geotechnical advice and solutions for a diverse portfolio of mining projects, encompassing both surface and underground operations worldwide. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of rock mechanics, soil mechanics, and slope stability, with a proven track record of managing complex geotechnical challenges. As a remote-first professional, you will collaborate virtually with project managers, geologists, engineers, and clients, utilizing advanced modeling software and communication tools to deliver exceptional results. Our company fosters a culture of technical excellence, innovation, and client collaboration, offering a unique opportunity to shape the future of safe and sustainable mining practices globally. We are dedicated to providing our remote workforce with the support and resources needed to thrive.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide expert geotechnical assessments and design recommendations for open-pit slopes, underground excavations, and mine infrastructure.
• Develop and implement geotechnical investigation programs, including site characterization and laboratory testing.
• Perform advanced numerical modeling and analysis of geotechnical stability problems.
• Prepare comprehensive geotechnical reports, specifications, and construction guidelines.
• Conduct site visits and provide on-site geotechnical support as needed (though the primary role is remote).
• Review and approve geotechnical designs and reports from internal and external sources.
• Mentor junior geotechnical engineers and contribute to knowledge sharing within the team.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary project teams to integrate geotechnical considerations into mine planning and design.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in geotechnical engineering and mining technology.
• Manage geotechnical aspects of projects, ensuring adherence to budget and schedule.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or Ph.D. in Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in geotechnical engineering, with a significant focus on the mining industry.
• Demonstrated expertise in slope stability analysis, underground excavation design, and ground support.
• Proficiency in geotechnical software such as Rocscience (Slide, Phase2, UnWedge), FLAC, or similar.
• Strong understanding of geological principles and their influence on geotechnical behavior.
• Excellent report writing and presentation skills.
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote team environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Professional Engineer (PE) or equivalent designation is highly desirable.
• Ability to travel internationally on occasion for client meetings or critical site visits.

Benefits

• Highly competitive compensation package reflecting senior expertise.
• Performance-based bonus opportunities.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Significant opportunities for professional development and continued learning.
• Flexible remote work arrangements offering excellent work-life integration.
• Exposure to a wide array of challenging and impactful international mining projects.