Underground Geotechnical Engineer: Stability & Safety Lead

Placements24; Willows (CA); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 79,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Comprehensive medical coverage

Retirement fund

Professional development

Culture of safety

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Geotechnical Engineer to join a major underground mining operation in Welkom, Free State. The role focuses on stability and safety of underground mine workings, including stopes, development ends, and shaft infrastructure.

You will conduct geological and geotechnical investigations, analyze rock mass properties, and design ground support systems while managing geotechnical risks and advising on excavation stability.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mining Engineering, Civil Engineering with a specialization in Geotechnical Engineering, or equivalent.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in geotechnical engineering, with a strong focus on underground mining applications.
• Proficiency in geotechnical analysis software (e.g., Map3D, RS2, FLAC).
• Solid understanding of rock mechanics, geomechanics, and structural geology.
• Experience with ground support design and installation methods.
• Knowledge of geotechnical instrumentation and monitoring techniques.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including report writing.
• Ability to work effectively underground and collaborate with various site personnel.
• Commitment to health, safety, and environmental best practices in Welkom, Free State.

Responsibilities

• Conduct geotechnical assessments of underground excavations, including stability analysis and risk evaluation.
• Design and implement appropriate ground support systems (e.g., rock bolts, mesh, shotcrete) for various mining conditions.
• Plan and supervise geotechnical investigations, including drilling, in-situ testing, and laboratory testing.
• Analyze rock mass characteristics, stress conditions, and failure mechanisms.
• Monitor ground conditions using instrumentation and regular site inspections.
• Provide expert geotechnical advice to mine planning, engineering, and operations teams.
• Develop and implement geotechnical management plans and procedures.
• Investigate geotechnical incidents and recommend corrective actions.
• Contribute to the development of mine design and sequencing from a geotechnical perspective.
• Maintain accurate geotechnical databases and records.

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Geotechnical Engineer to join a major underground mining operation in Welkom, Free State. The role focuses on stability and safety of underground mine workings, including stopes, development ends, and shaft infrastructure.

You will conduct geological and geotechnical investigations, analyze rock mass properties, and design ground support systems while managing geotechnical risks and advising on excavation stability.