Geotechnical Engineer

United Manganese Of Kalahari (Umk); Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading mining company is seeking a Geotechnical Engineer to provide expert support in designing and optimizing open pits. The role requires extensive experience in open pit operations, with a strong emphasis on safety, compliance, and innovative geotechnical practices. The successful candidate will contribute to sustainable profitability and manage risk associated with ground conditions.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years' experience in open pit mining, with at least 4 years as Rock Engineer.
• Holder of legal appointment under MHSA 14.1.
• Member of SANIRE or equivalent professional body.

Responsibilities

• Conduct numerical modelling and predictive analysis of potential failure modes.
• Collect and report geotechnical data including groundwater and pit wall stability.
• Ensure compliance with MHSA safety standards related to geotechnical risks.

Skills

Numerical modelling

Analytical capabilities

Slope monitoring

Communication

Leadership

Attention to detail

Education

BSc / BEng / BTech in Geotechnical Engineering, Mining Engineering, or Geology

Tools

Gem4D

Rocscience

Microsoft Office Suite

Mine Planning Software

Job description

The Geotechnical Engineer is responsible for providing expert geotechnical support for the design, safe operation, and optimisation of open pits as part of the Technical Services Department.

This role includes legal accountability under Regulation 14.1 of the Mine Health and Safety Act (MHSA), ensuring that rock engineering risks are proactively managed.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• BSc / BEng / BTech in Geotechnical Engineering, Mining Engineering, or Geology.
• Minimum 5 years' experience in open pit mining, with at least 4 years as a Rock Engineer and Strata Control Officer Certificate in Rock Mechanics (Metalliferous Mines).
• Holder of legal appointment under MHSA 14.1.
• Member of SANIRE or equivalent professional body.
• Valid driver's license code 08.
• Certificate of fitness to work in a mining environment.

SKILLS AND COMPETENCIES:

• Proficient in numerical modelling with emphasis on Gem4D and Rocscience tools.
• Excellent analytical, reporting, and data interpretation capabilities.
• Skilled in slope monitoring system implementation and management.
• Competency in Microsoft Office Suite and Mine Planning Software.
• Proactive and self-motivated.
• Team-oriented with strong leadership skills.
• High attention to detail and analytical thinking.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Resilient under pressure and adaptable to changing priorities.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Mining Operations

• Collect and report geotechnical data including groundwater, pit wall and waste dump stability, and slope performance.
• Identify hazards and perform continuous geotechnical ratings to mitigate rockfall risk and overall slope stability.
• Conduct numerical modelling and predictive analysis of potential failure modes, using advanced software.
• Advise on geotechnical support systems and rock mass classification.
• Provide geotechnical input into reserve losses, dilution calculations, and mine planning (LoM, MTP, STP).
• Provide technical input to drill and blast designs based on rock blastability and protection of highwalls.
• Develop and maintain a Geotechnical Drilling Database.
• Train mine personnel in Strata Control principles and hazard identification.

Safety

• Ensure compliance with MHSA safety standards related to geotechnical risks.
• Promote a strong safety culture and conduct regular hazard reviews.
• Lead accident and incident investigations related to ground conditions.
• Serve as the custodian for Mandatory Code of Practice – Combat Rock fall and Slope instability related accidents in surface mines.

Profitability and Growth

• Collaborate with management and technical teams to optimise pit designs for safety and cost-effectiveness.
• Ensure geotechnical designs contribute to sustainable profitability and mine life.

Statutory Requirements

• Monitor compliance with MHSA and other applicable regulations.
• Ensure timely and accurate updating of geotechnical statutory codes of practice and procedures.

Contractor and Stakeholder Management

• Align contractors with geotechnical requirements and monitor their compliance.
• Work with internal stakeholders (Production, Safety, Planning, and Geology teams).
• Engage with external stakeholders including inspectors, suppliers, and neighbouring operations.

Section Management

• Manage the performance, development, and recruitment of subordinates.
• Develop and manage operating and capital budgets.
• Provide technical leadership, enforce standards, and ensure legal compliance.

How to apply: Send us your updated CV including certified copies of certificates and ID. Applicants are required to state the reference number of the position they have applied for in the email subject. Our commitment to diversity and inclusion: Preference will be given to under-represented designated groups. If you do not hear from us within 30 days after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful. UMK and its employees/representatives never ask for a fee or other favors from job seekers. Any such requests must be reported to the UMK WhistleBlowing hotline.