Geotechnical Engineer - Dam Safety & Foundation Analysis

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Professional development

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 invites an experienced Geotechnical Engineer to its Mahikeng, North West office. You will lead site investigations, dam and foundation analyses, and provide robust recommendations for water infrastructure and mining projects across the region. The role requires a Master's in Geotechnical or Civil Engineering, Pr.

Eng. with ECSA, at least 7 years' dam engineering experience, and proficiency with PLAXIS, GeoStudio and FLAC.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Geotechnical or Civil Engineering with geotechnical specialization.
• Pr. Eng. (ECSA) registration.
• Minimum 7 years' experience in dam engineering & foundation analysis.
• Experience with seismic hazard assessments and numerical modeling.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute geotechnical site investigations for dams and large foundations.
• Perform stability analyses for dams, slopes, and excavations.
• Conduct seepage and groundwater impact assessments.
• Prepare geotechnical reports including seismic hazard assessments.
• Coordinate with clients and other disciplines; manage deliverables.
• Ensure compliance with SANS standards and best practices.
• Utilize advanced geotechnical modeling software.
• Mentor junior engineers.

Skills

Geotechnical engineering

PLAXIS

GeoStudio

FLAC

Finite element analysis

Dam engineering

Project management

Mentoring juniors

Report writing

Education

Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering or Civil Engineering

Tools

PLAXIS

GeoStudio

FLAC

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a specialized firm in geosciences and civil engineering, is actively seeking an experienced Geotechnical Engineer for their office in Mahikeng, North West . This role will focus on the critical aspects of dam safety, foundation engineering for large structures, and slope stability analysis, particularly in relation to water infrastructure and mining projects prevalent in the region. You will be responsible for conducting thorough site investigations, detailed analysis, and providing robust engineering recommendations. The ideal candidate possesses a strong theoretical foundation in soil and rock mechanics, coupled with practical experience in complex geotechnical challenges. This is a significant opportunity to contribute to vital infrastructure projects and enhance safety standards within the North West province.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, execute, and interpret results from geotechnical site investigations, including drilling and in-situ testing for dams and large foundations.
• Perform detailed stability analyses for dams, slopes, and excavations.
• Conduct seepage analysis and assess the impact of groundwater on structures.
• Provide engineering designs and recommendations for foundation systems, ground improvement, and earthworks.
• Prepare comprehensive geotechnical reports, including seismic hazard assessments where relevant.
• Liaise with clients, project managers, and other engineering disciplines to integrate geotechnical solutions.
• Ensure designs and investigations comply with relevant SANS standards and international best practices for dam safety and geotechnical engineering.
• Utilize advanced geotechnical modeling software for analysis and design.
• Manage project deliverables, ensuring timely completion and adherence to budget constraints.
• Contribute expertise to the assessment and mitigation of geological risks in the Mahikeng, North West region.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering or Civil Engineering with a strong geotechnical specialization.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA.
• A minimum of 7 years of relevant professional experience, with specific expertise in dam engineering and foundation analysis.
• Demonstrated experience in assessing the stability and safety of existing and proposed dams.
• Proficiency in geotechnical software such as PLAXIS, GeoStudio, FLAC, or equivalent.
• Strong analytical skills and a systematic approach to problem-solving.
• Excellent report writing and presentation abilities.
• Ability to manage projects and mentor junior engineers.
• Experience with finite element analysis and complex numerical modeling is essential.
• Familiarity with the geological conditions and mining activities in the Mahikeng, North West area is a significant asset.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package including private medical aid and a retirement fund. The company provides excellent opportunities for professional development, including advanced training, conference attendance, and support for further specialization. This role offers a hybrid work arrangement, enabling flexibility while ensuring critical on-site assessments and client interactions in Mahikeng, North West . We pride ourselves on a culture of technical excellence, innovation, and collaboration. Employees are integral to our success, and career progression paths are clearly defined. Access to cutting-edge technology and a supportive team environment are standard.