Senior Geotechnical Engineer - Mining & Infrastructure Projects

Placements24; Willows (CA); On-site; USD 66,000 - 102,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Medical and retirement benefits

Professional development

Mining projects in Free State

Collaborative environment

Career advancement

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Geotechnical Engineer to lead geotechnical investigations, analyses, and design for mining and civil projects in the Free State. The role emphasizes slope stability, tailings, and foundational works, with strong guidance in report writing and technical leadership.

The ideal candidate will have a Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Pr. Eng. registration, and at least nine years of mining-focused geotechnical experience. Travel to sites will be required.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering or related discipline.
• Professional registration with ECSA as a Pr. Eng. is required.
• Minimum of 9 years of relevant geotechnical experience, focused on mining.
• Experience in open-pit slope design, tailings management, and underground mine support.
• Expertise in geotechnical software for analysis and modeling.
• Strong understanding of geological conditions in the Free State region.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and report-writing skills.
• Ability to work independently and in project teams.
• Willingness to travel to mine sites and project locations.

Responsibilities

• Plan, execute, and interpret geotechnical site investigations for mining and civil projects.
• Conduct analyses of soil and rock mechanics, including slope stability and foundation settlement.
• Design foundations, earthworks, retaining structures, and mine waste facilities.
• Develop geotechnical reports and provide construction guidance.
• Use advanced geotechnical software for modeling and analysis.
• Collaborate with mining engineers, geologists and other disciplines.
• Ensure designs meet safety, environmental standards and best practices.
• Manage project scopes, budgets, and timelines; mentor junior staff.

Skills

Geotechnical software

Slope design

Tailings management

Open-pit mining

Report writing

Analytical skills

Education

Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering

Pr. Eng. registration (ECSA)

Tools

PLAXIS

Geostudio

Slide

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading engineering consultancy with extensive experience in the mining and infrastructure sectors, is seeking a highly qualified Senior Geotechnical Engineer to join their team in Welkom, Free State. This role is critical for providing specialized geotechnical expertise for a range of challenging projects, including mine infrastructure stability, tailings dam design, open-pit slope stability, and general civil infrastructure foundations. You will be responsible for leading site investigations, performing complex analyses, and developing practical, cost-effective solutions. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of soil and rock mechanics, ground behavior in mining environments, and relevant analytical software. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the vital mining industry in the Free State and to work on diverse and impactful projects. We are looking for an experienced professional committed to safety, innovation, and technical excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, execute, and interpret geotechnical site investigations for mining and civil projects.
• Conduct detailed analyses of soil and rock mechanics, including slope stability, seepage, and foundation settlement.
• Design and provide recommendations for foundations, earthworks, retaining structures, and mine waste disposal facilities.
• Develop comprehensive geotechnical reports and provide technical guidance during construction.
• Utilize advanced geotechnical software for modeling and analysis (e.g., PLAXIS, GEOSTUDIO, Slide).
• Collaborate with mining engineers, geologists, and other disciplines to integrate geotechnical considerations into project designs.
• Ensure designs comply with industry best practices, safety regulations, and environmental standards relevant to the Free State mining sector.
• Manage project scopes, budgets, and timelines for geotechnical assignments.
• Mentor junior geotechnical staff and contribute to the team's technical development.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Professional registration with ECSA as a Pr. Eng. is required.
• A minimum of 9 years of relevant experience in geotechnical engineering, with a significant focus on mining-related projects.
• Proven experience in open-pit slope design, tailings management, and underground mine support.
• Expertise in geotechnical software for analysis and modeling.
• Strong understanding of geological conditions prevalent in the Free State region.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and report-writing skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively in a project team.
• Willingness to travel to mine sites and project locations as required.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary package, reflecting expertise and experience.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund options.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development and advanced training.
• Involvement in significant projects within the key mining regions of the Free State.
• A stimulating and collaborative work environment.
• Potential for project leadership and career advancement.