Geotechnical Engineer - Foundation and Soil Analysis

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Geotechnical Engineer to join a leading geotechnical consultancy in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. The role combines field investigations with office design work on foundations and earthworks, requiring strong soil and rock mechanics knowledge.

You will plan subsurface investigations, analyze samples, and perform geotechnical analyses for foundations, slopes, and earth retaining structures, while coordinating with design teams and overseeing site activities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering with a Geotechnical specialization.
• Registra tion with ECSA (Pr.Eng or Pr.Tech.Eng) preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of geotechnical investigations and design experience.
• Strong knowledge of soil mechanics, rock mechanics and hydrogeology.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute subsurface investigations including drilling, sampling and in-situ testing.
• Analyze soil and rock samples to determine engineering properties.
• Perform geotechnical analyses for foundation design (shallow and deep), slope stability and earth retaining structures.
• Prepare geotechnical investigation reports with design recommendations.
• Provide technical input to design engineers, architects and construction teams.
• Oversee construction activities related to earthworks and foundations, ensuring design compliance.
• Utilize geotechnical software for analysis and modeling.
• Assess and manage geotechnical risks on projects.
• Stay updated with latest geotechnical engineering practices and technologies.

Skills

Soil mechanics

Rock mechanics

Geotechnical engineering

Borehole data interpretation

Technical reporting

Education

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering (Geotechnical)

Tools

Plaxis

GeoStudio

Rocscience

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading geotechnical consultancy, is seeking an experienced Geotechnical Engineer to join their team in Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This critical role involves the investigation, analysis, and design of foundations and earthworks for a wide range of construction projects, from residential developments to industrial facilities. You will be responsible for assessing ground conditions, advising on appropriate foundation solutions, and ensuring the stability and safety of earth structures. This is a field-intensive and office-based role requiring hands-on involvement in site investigations and detailed analysis. We are looking for a detail-oriented professional with a strong understanding of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and ground improvement techniques. Your expertise will be vital in mitigating geotechnical risks and ensuring the successful completion of projects in the diverse geological landscape of the Western Cape. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to significant local developments and enhance your career in a specialized field.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and execute subsurface investigations, including drilling, sampling, and in-situ testing.
• Analyze soil and rock samples to determine their engineering properties.
• Perform detailed geotechnical analyses for foundation design (e.g., shallow foundations, deep foundations), slope stability, and earth retaining structures.
• Prepare comprehensive geotechnical investigation reports, including recommendations for design and construction.
• Provide technical input and support to design engineers, architects, and construction teams.
• Oversee construction activities related to earthworks and foundations, ensuring compliance with design specifications.
• Utilize geotechnical software for analysis and modeling.
• Assess and manage geotechnical risks associated with construction projects.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in geotechnical engineering practices and technologies.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering with a specialization in Geotechnical Engineering.
• Professional registration with ECSA (Pr.Eng or Pr.Tech.Eng) is preferred.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in geotechnical investigations and design.
• Strong knowledge of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and hydrogeology.
• Proficiency in geotechnical analysis software (e.g., Plaxis, GeoStudio, Rocscience).
• Experience with field investigation techniques and equipment.
• Excellent report writing and communication skills.
• Ability to interpret geological maps and borehole data.
• Familiarity with local geological conditions in the Western Cape is advantageous.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, annual performance bonuses, and comprehensive medical aid and provident fund benefits.
• We are committed to supporting your professional development with opportunities for further training and specialization.
• This role provides the chance to work on diverse and challenging projects within the beautiful coastal environment of Mossel Bay .
• You will join a highly respected firm known for its technical expertise and commitment to quality.
• We offer a collaborative work environment where your contributions are valued and recognized, with clear pathways for career progression.
• The company provides the necessary tools and resources to excel in your role, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation.