Geotechnical Engineer - Large Scale Developments

Placements24; George; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid and pension

Professional development support

Paid time off and holidays

Career progression opportunities

Access to advanced design software

Job summary

Placements24 in George, Western Cape, seeks a Geotechnical Engineer to lead site investigations, analyze soil/rock properties and design foundations for complex structures. The role requires a strong command of geotechnical principles and client-facing reporting.

You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams on high-rise, bridge and industrial projects, travel across the Western Cape as needed, and contribute to proposals for new works.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Geotechnical Engineering or closely related field.
• 7+ years of hands-on geotechnical investigations and design experience.
• Pr Eng or Pr Tech Eng registration with ECSA preferred.
• Strong knowledge of soil and rock mechanics and foundation engineering.
• Experience with geotechnical software such as PLAXIS and GeoStudio.
• Familiarity with SANS and international codes.
• Ability to interpret geological data and ground conditions accurately.
• Excellent report writing and client presentation skills.
• Willingness to travel within the Western Cape.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute site investigations (drilling, sampling, in-situ testing).
• Analyze soil/rock data to determine engineering properties.
• Design foundations (shallow to deep incl. rafts, piles, caissons).
• Assess slope stability and groundwater seepage issues.
• Develop detailed geotechnical reports with design parameters.
• Liaise with clients, architects, structural engineers and construction teams.
• Oversee field monitoring and instrumentation during construction.
• Ensure compliance with geotechnical codes and standards.
• Manage multiple projects with timely delivery within budget.
• Contribute to proposals and winning new projects.

Skills

Geotechnical analysis

Site investigations

Report writing

Project management

Education

Master's in Geotechnical Engineering

Tools

PLAXIS

GeoStudio

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent engineering firm renowned for its expertise in complex foundation and geotechnical solutions, is actively seeking a dedicated Geotechnical Engineer to join their established practice in George, Western Cape. This crucial position involves providing expert advice and detailed design for a variety of challenging projects, including high-rise buildings, bridges, and industrial facilities. The successful applicant will be instrumental in assessing ground conditions, recommending appropriate foundation designs, and mitigating geotechnical risks. We are looking for a technically astute professional with a keen eye for detail and a commitment to delivering safe, cost-effective engineering solutions. This role represents an excellent opportunity to contribute to significant developments in the George region and to further advance your career in a supportive and growth-oriented environment. The role demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and a strong ability to collaborate with diverse project teams.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and execute site investigations, including drilling, sampling, and in-situ testing.
• Analyze soil and rock mechanics data to determine engineering properties.
• Perform foundation design calculations for shallow and deep foundations (e.g., rafts, piles, caissons).
• Assess slope stability, earth retention systems, and groundwater seepage issues.
• Develop detailed geotechnical reports, including recommendations and design parameters.
• Liaise with clients, architects, structural engineers, and construction teams to provide technical guidance.
• Oversee and conduct field monitoring and instrumentation during construction phases.
• Ensure all designs and recommendations comply with relevant geotechnical codes and standards.
• Manage multiple geotechnical projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to budget.
• Contribute to the development of proposals and the acquisition of new projects.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of hands-on experience in geotechnical investigations and design.
• Professional Engineer (Pr Eng) or Technologist (Pr Tech Eng) registration with ECSA preferred.
• Strong knowledge of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and foundation engineering principles.
• Experience with geotechnical software such as PLAXIS, GeoStudio, or similar.
• Familiarity with relevant South African National Standards (SANS) and international codes.
• Ability to interpret geological data and ground conditions accurately.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for report writing and client presentations.
• Strong project management and organizational skills.
• Willingness to travel to project sites as required within the Western Cape .

Benefits

• Competitive salary reflecting expertise and experience.
• Company-provided medical aid and pension fund.
• Professional development opportunities and support for further education.
• Paid time off for annual leave and public holidays.
• A stimulating work environment with challenging projects.
• Career progression pathways within a leading firm.
• Regular team lunches and company social events.
• State-of-the-art design and analysis software.
• Opportunities to work on landmark projects in the region.
• Company vehicle or travel allowance may be provided.