Geotechnical Engineer - Geothermal Energy Projects

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonuses

Medical aid

Provident fund

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Geotechnical Engineer in Durban, South Africa, to lead geotechnical analyses for geothermal energy projects. You will assess subsurface conditions, design foundations, and ensure underground infrastructure safety, applying soil and rock mechanics, hydrogeology, and ground improvement techniques.

The role requires a Bachelor’s in Geotechnical/Civil with relevant focus and at least 5 years of experience, plus proficiency in PLAXIS or GeoStudio.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Geotechnical Engineering or Civil with Geotechnical focus.
• 5+ years of geotechnical engineering experience.
• Strong report writing and communication skills.
• Willingness to travel to project sites.

Responsibilities

• Conduct site characterization and subsurface exploration for geothermal energy projects.
• Analyze soil and rock properties for foundation design and slope stability.
• Develop geotechnical design reports with excavation, support, and ground treatment recommendations.
• Oversee geotechnical aspects of construction to ensure safety and design compliance.
• Perform risk assessments for geotechnical hazards and mitigation plans.
• Collaborate with geologists, structural engineers, and energy system designers.
• Review and approve geotechnical reports and designs from contractors.
• Use geotechnical software for analysis and modeling.
• Stay updated on geotechnical advances in geothermal energy.

Education

Bachelor's degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering with a Geotechnical focus

Tools

PLAXIS

GeoStudio

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the **energy** sector focused on sustainable geothermal solutions, is seeking an experienced Geotechnical Engineer to join their team in **Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, ZA**. This critical role involves providing expert geotechnical analysis and oversight for the development and operation of geothermal **energy** projects. You will be responsible for assessing subsurface conditions, designing foundations, and ensuring the stability and safety of underground infrastructure. This position requires a strong understanding of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and ground improvement techniques, specifically as they apply to large-scale **energy** infrastructure. The ideal candidate will possess a passion for renewable **energy** and a commitment to delivering high-quality, safe, and reliable engineering solutions in the unique environment of **Durban** and its surrounding regions.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed geotechnical investigations, including site characterization and subsurface exploration for geothermal **energy** projects.
• Analyze soil and rock properties to determine foundation designs, slope stability, and seismic considerations.
• Develop geotechnical design reports and provide recommendations for excavation, support systems, and ground treatment.
• Oversee geotechnical aspects of project construction, ensuring compliance with design specifications and safety standards.
• Perform risk assessments related to geotechnical hazards and develop mitigation strategies.
• Collaborate with project teams, including geologists, structural engineers, and **energy** system designers, to integrate geotechnical findings.
• Review and approve geotechnical reports and designs submitted by contractors.
• Utilize specialized geotechnical software for analysis and modeling.
• Stay current with advancements in geotechnical engineering and their application to geothermal **energy** technologies.
• Ensure all geotechnical activities comply with **South African** building codes and **energy** industry regulations.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering with a Geotechnical focus, or a closely related discipline.
• A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in geotechnical engineering, with a preference for experience in the **energy** sector or large infrastructure projects.
• Proven experience with site investigations, laboratory testing interpretation, and foundation design.
• Proficiency in geotechnical analysis software such as PLAXIS, GeoStudio, or similar.
• Strong knowledge of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and hydrogeology.
• Experience with geothermal systems or deep underground **energy** storage is a significant advantage.
• Excellent report writing and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks effectively.
• Registered or eligible for registration as a Professional Engineer with ECSA.
• Willingness to travel to project sites as required.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package, reflecting your expertise and contribution.
• Performance-based bonuses and project completion incentives.
• Opportunity to work on exciting and innovative geothermal **energy** projects.
• Comprehensive medical aid and provident fund.
• Continuous professional development and training opportunities.
• Exposure to cutting-edge **energy** technology and international best practices.
• A stable and reputable company with a strong commitment to sustainability.
• Potential for career growth within the **energy** sector.