Geotechnical Engineer - Major Construction Projects

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

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Provident fund

Professional growth & training

Annual performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a qualified Geotechnical Engineer to join a leading geotechnical engineering firm in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. You will conduct site investigations, assess soil and rock properties, and provide design recommendations for foundations, slopes, and earthworks across large-scale projects.

The role requires at least 7 years of relevant experience, strong reporting skills, and the ability to travel to project sites in KwaZulu-Natal.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Civil Engineering with geotechnical specialization.
• Pr Eng registration with ECSA is highly advantageous.
• Experience in geotechnical investigations and design is required.

Responsibilities

• Plan and supervise site investigations (drilling, pits, in-situ tests).
• Analyze soil/rock mechanics data for design properties.
• Perform geotechnical designs for foundations, retaining walls, and earth structures.

Skills

Project management

Report writing

Communication

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelors or Masters in Civil Engineering (Geotechnical)

Pr Eng registration (advantage)

Tools

PLAXIS

GeoStudio

Slope/W

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading geotechnical engineering firm, is seeking a qualified and experienced Geotechnical Engineer to join their established practice in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal. This role is crucial for the success of numerous large-scale construction projects, including commercial developments, industrial facilities, and residential estates. You will be responsible for investigating subsurface conditions, assessing risks, and providing expert recommendations for foundation design, slope stability, and earthworks. This position offers the opportunity to work on diverse and challenging projects, contribute to innovative solutions, and develop your career within a supportive and professional team environment. The successful candidate will be adept at interpreting complex geological data and communicating findings clearly to project stakeholders. We are committed to shaping the future of construction in KwaZulu-Natal.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and execute site investigations, including drilling, trial pits, and in-situ testing.
• Analyze soil and rock mechanics data to determine engineering properties.
• Perform geotechnical designs for foundations (shallow and deep), retaining walls, and other earth structures.
• Conduct stability analyses for slopes, embankments, and excavations.
• Prepare detailed geotechnical investigation reports, including recommendations for design and construction.
• Liaise with clients, contractors, and other consultants to discuss project requirements and findings.
• Provide technical supervision during construction phases related to earthworks and foundations.
• Ensure compliance with relevant geotechnical standards, codes of practice, and environmental regulations.
• Utilize specialized geotechnical software for analysis and modeling.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of geotechnical practices within the company.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Civil Engineering with a specialization in Geotechnical Engineering.
• A minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in geotechnical investigations and design.
• Professional Engineer (Pr Eng) registration with ECSA is highly advantageous.
• Proficiency in geotechnical design software (e.g., PLAXIS, GeoStudio, Slope/W).
• Strong understanding of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and hydrogeology principles.
• Experience in the interpretation of field and laboratory test results.
• Excellent report writing and presentation skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to project sites within Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal and surrounding areas.
• A proactive approach to problem-solving and a keen eye for detail.

Benefits

• Attractive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive health insurance coverage and provident fund.
• Opportunities for professional growth and specialized training in geotechnical engineering.
• A collaborative and engaging team culture.
• Involvement in high-profile and technically demanding projects.
• Annual performance bonuses.
• Supportive management and clear career progression pathways.
• Exposure to cutting-edge geotechnical techniques and technologies.