Geotechnical Engineer - Large Scale Projects

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Leave allowances

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Geotechnical Engineer to join our client’s expanding operations in Upington. You will conduct site investigations, analyze soil and rock mechanics, and advise on foundation design, slope stability, and earthworks for major civil and mining projects across the Northern Cape.

The role requires significant field presence, collaboration with project teams, and a commitment to safe, cost-effective solutions.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA.
• Minimum of 7 years of geotechnical engineering experience.
• Demonstrated experience in designing foundations, earth retaining structures, and slope stability analysis.
• Proficiency with geotechnical software such as Plaxis, GeoStudio Suite, or similar.
• Strong knowledge of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and hydrogeology.
• Excellent report writing and presentation skills.
• Willingness to travel extensively within the Northern Cape and work on remote sites.
• Valid driver's license.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute subsurface investigations, including drilling, sampling, and in-situ testing.
• Analyse geotechnical data and perform complex modelling for foundation design (shallow and deep), retaining walls, and earth structures.
• Develop geotechnical reports and provide recommendations for construction, including earthworks, slope stabilization, and pavement design.
• Conduct site supervision and quality control during construction phases to ensure compliance with design specifications.
• Assess seismic hazards and design structures to withstand geological risks.
• Collaborate with structural engineers, civil engineers, and other project stakeholders.
• Prepare technical proposals and assist in the bidding process for new projects.
• Stay abreast of advancements in geotechnical engineering and relevant South African standards.
• Provide expert advice on ground improvement techniques and remediation strategies.

Skills

Soil mechanics

Rock mechanics

Hydrogeology

Education

Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering

Pr. Eng. registration with ECSA

Tools

Plaxis

GeoStudio Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned geotechnical engineering firm, is looking for an experienced Geotechnical Engineer to join their expanding operations in Upington. This role is integral to supporting the company's involvement in major civil and mining infrastructure projects across the Northern Cape. You will be responsible for conducting detailed site investigations, analysing soil and rock mechanics, and providing expert recommendations for foundation design, slope stability, and earthworks. The ideal candidate will possess a strong analytical mind, exceptional problem-solving skills, and a commitment to delivering technically sound and cost-effective solutions. This is a hands-on role that requires significant field presence and collaboration with project managers, construction teams, and clients. You will be a key contributor to ensuring the stability and safety of critical infrastructure in a region known for its unique geological conditions. We are dedicated to fostering a culture of technical excellence and continuous learning.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and execute subsurface investigations, including drilling, sampling, and in-situ testing.


• Analyse geotechnical data and perform complex modelling for foundation design (shallow and deep), retaining walls, and earth structures.


• Develop geotechnical reports and provide recommendations for construction, including earthworks, slope stabilization, and pavement design.


• Conduct site supervision and quality control during construction phases to ensure compliance with design specifications.


• Assess seismic hazards and design structures to withstand geological risks.


• Collaborate with structural engineers, civil engineers, and other project stakeholders.


• Prepare technical proposals and assist in the bidding process for new projects.


• Stay abreast of advancements in geotechnical engineering and relevant South African standards.


• Provide expert advice on ground improvement techniques and remediation strategies.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering or a related field.


• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA.


• Minimum of 7 years of experience in geotechnical engineering, with a focus on infrastructure or mining projects.


• Demonstrated experience in designing foundations, earth retaining structures, and slope stability analysis.


• Proficiency with geotechnical software such as Plaxis, GeoStudio Suite, or similar.


• Strong knowledge of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and hydrogeology.


• Excellent report writing and presentation skills.


• Willingness to travel extensively within the Northern Cape and work on remote sites.


• Valid driver's license.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive remuneration package, reflective of your skills and experience. This includes a comprehensive benefits plan encompassing medical aid, a provident fund, and generous leave allowances. Opportunities for professional development, attending industry conferences, and advancing your career within a reputable organisation are readily available. The role is based in Upington, providing a chance to work on challenging and impactful projects within this unique South African region. While the role is site-intensive, the company values work-life balance and promotes a supportive team culture.