Principal Geotechnical Engineer - Surface and Underground

Placements24; Willows (CA); Remote; USD 170,000 - 230,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Remote-first teamwork

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Geotechnical Engineer for a fully remote role serving a global mining client base. The incumbent will lead rock/soil mechanics analyses, slope stability studies, and underground excavation design for open-pit and underground mines.

The role emphasizes senior-level independent work, mentoring, and collaboration with project managers, geologists, and engineers worldwide, leveraging advanced modeling tools to deliver safe, efficient mining solutions.

Qualifications

• Master’s or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive geotechnical experience with a mining focus.
• Expertise in slope stability analysis, underground excavation design, and ground support.
• Proficiency with Rocscience tools or similar software.

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 (remote-first role).
• Review and approve geotechnical designs and reports from internal and external sources.
• Mentor junior geotechnical engineers and share knowledge within the team.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate geotechnical considerations into mine planning and design.

Skills

Slope stability

Underground design

Ground support

Remote collaboration

Numerical modeling

Project mentoring

Education

Master’s or PhD in Geotechnical/Civil 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.