Civil Engineer (Independent Contractor)

Vulcan Recruit; South Africa; Remote; ZAR 200,000 - 300,000; Part time

Job summary

A recruitment agency is seeking a Civil Engineer (Independent Contractor) for projects across Africa. The role focuses on civil and structural design, geotechnical coordination, and project management. Candidates should possess a relevant engineering degree, strong design skills, and willingness to travel. The contract offers a competitive monthly rate and is based in Johannesburg.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2–3 years relevant industry experience.
• Must hold a valid passport and be willing to travel regularly.
• Comfortable working in mining environments.

Responsibilities

• Provide civil and structural design for various infrastructure projects.
• Coordinate geotechnical surveys and analyze reports.
• Prepare detailed drawings, specifications, and documentation.

Skills

Proficiency in civil/structural design software (e.g., AutoCAD)

Strong communication skills

Problem-solving mindset

Attention to detail

Education

B.Eng Civil Engineering or N.Dip Civil Engineering

Tools

Structural analysis tools

Job description

Overview

Job Specification: Civil Engineer (Independent Contractor)

Position Details

• Role: Civil Engineer (Independent Contractor)
• Location: Johannesburg (Bryanston, relocating to Linbro Park) with regular travel to project sites across Africa
• Contract Type: Independent Contractor (IC) starting with 12 Months Contract
• Start Date: 1 October 2025
• Contract Rate: ZAR 30,000 – ZAR 40,000 per month (based on experience)

Minimum Requirements

• Education: B.Eng Civil Engineering or N.Dip Civil Engineering
• Experience: Minimum 2–3 years relevant industry experience
• Languages: English (First Language – required); Afrikaans (optional); Additional languages are advantageous
• Travel: Must hold a valid passport and be willing to travel regularly (project sites include Mali, Morocco, Ghana, Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia)
• Environment: Comfortable working in mining environments

Key Responsibilities

The appointed Civil Engineer will provide services across the following areas:

1. Civil & Structural Design
   • Foundation and structural design for substations, overhead lines, PV structures, generators, tanks, and heavy equipment.
   • Structural analysis of steel and reinforced concrete.
   • Site layouts, earthworks, grading, and stability planning.
2. Geotechnical Coordination
   • Review and coordinate geotechnical surveys.
   • Interpret reports to determine appropriate foundation solutions.
   • Slope stability and soil condition analysis.
3. Infrastructure & Utilities Design
   • Drainage systems, stormwater management, and erosion control.
   • Design of access roads, platforms, and laydown areas.
   • Civil works for perimeter fencing and security installations.
4. Project Engineering & Documentation
   • Prepare detailed drawings, specifications, and bills of quantities.
   • Interdisciplinary coordination with electrical and mechanical engineers.
5. Procurement & Vendor Management
   • Support material procurement, vendor evaluations, and quality compliance.
   • Review shop drawings and vendor submittals.
6. Construction & Commissioning Support
   • Supervise civil works during construction.
   • Conduct site inspections, resolve field issues, and update as-built documentation.
7. Project-Specific Deliverables
   • Substation, overhead line, PV plant, and diesel generation facility design and support.
8. Project Management & Client Interaction
   • Contribute to project schedules, budgets, and risk management.
   • Liaise with clients, utilities, and regulators.
9. Regulatory & Environmental Compliance
   • Ensure compliance with codes, regulations, and permits.
   • Integrate environmental protection measures into designs.
10. Continuous Improvement
    • Adopt new technologies (e.g., BIM, drone surveys).
    • Apply sustainable design practices and contribute to lessons learned.

Project-Specific Experience

• Substations: Designing foundations, control buildings, and drainage systems for HV/MV substations.
• Overhead Lines: Designing monopole foundations and managing geotechnical challenges for transmission and distribution lines.
• Diesel Generation: Designing foundations and containment systems for diesel generators, bulk storage tanks, and similar heavy equipment.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in civil/structural design software (e.g., AutoCAD, structural analysis tools).
• Experience with geotechnical analysis and interpretation of soil reports.
• Familiarity with relevant local and international building codes and standards.

Soft Skills

• Strong communication skills for interaction with clients, vendors, and cross-functional teams.
• Problem-solving mindset and adaptability to site-specific challenges.
• Attention to detail, with the ability to manage constructive feedback.
• A team player with resilience and a willingness to assist outside of the designated scope of work.