Geotechnical Engineer - Major Infrastructure Projects

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid and retirement fund

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Geotechnical Engineer for its client in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, to lead site investigations, soil/rock analysis, and foundation design on major infrastructure projects. The role emphasizes collaboration with civil and structural teams, adherence to safety standards, and delivery of robust geotechnical solutions.

The ideal candidate holds a Civil Engineering degree with geotechnical specialization, 7+ years of infrastructure experience, Pr Eng registration,

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering with geotechnical focus.
• 7+ years of geotechnical experience on infrastructure projects.
• Pr Eng registration with ECSA or eligible.
• Strong knowledge of soil/rock mechanics and foundation engineering.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute site investigations (drilling, sampling, in-situ tests).
• Analyze soil/rock properties and provide geotechnical recommendations.
• Design foundations, retaining structures, and earthworks.
• Conduct slope stability and seismic hazard assessments.
• Prepare reports and design documentation for projects.

Skills

Geotechnical engineering

Analytical skills

Team collaboration

Report writing

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's in Civil Engineering (Geotechnical)

Master's degree preferred

Pr Eng registration or eligible

Tools

GeoStudio (SLOPE/W, SEEP/W)

PLAXIS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned international engineering firm, is seeking a skilled Geotechnical Engineer to join their established team in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape . This role is crucial for the success of major infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, and commercial developments. The Geotechnical Engineer will be responsible for site investigations, soil analysis, foundation design, and risk assessment related to ground conditions. You will work closely with civil and structural engineers, contractors, and clients to ensure the geotechnical aspects of projects are robustly managed and meet all required safety and performance standards. This position offers significant opportunities for professional growth and involvement in high-impact projects across the region. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, a deep understanding of soil mechanics and rock mechanics, and experience with geotechnical software. Our client values a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to delivering sustainable and cost-effective engineering solutions. The hybrid work arrangement supports a balanced approach to professional life within the dynamic context of Port Elizabeth 's growing infrastructure needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and execute geotechnical site investigations, including drilling, sampling, and in-situ testing.
• Analyze soil and rock properties to determine engineering characteristics.
• Design foundations (shallow and deep), retaining walls, and earthworks.
• Perform slope stability analysis and seismic hazard assessments.
• Develop geotechnical recommendations for project design and construction.
• Prepare comprehensive geotechnical investigation reports and design documentation.
• Oversee and interpret the results of laboratory testing on soil and rock samples.
• Liaise with clients, project managers, and construction teams to provide geotechnical input.
• Ensure compliance with relevant geotechnical standards, codes, and regulations.
• Review contractor submittals and monitor construction activities for geotechnical aspects.
• Manage geotechnical aspects of project budgets and schedules.
• Contribute to risk assessments and mitigation strategies for geotechnical challenges.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering with a specialization in Geotechnical Engineering. A Master's degree is preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in geotechnical engineering, preferably on infrastructure projects.
• Professional Engineer (Pr Eng) registration with ECSA or eligibility for registration.
• Proficiency in geotechnical software such as GeoStudio (SLOPE/W, SEEP/W), PLAXIS, or similar.
• Strong knowledge of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, foundation engineering, and engineering geology.
• Experience with site investigation planning and supervision.
• Familiarity with South African geotechnical codes and standards.
• Excellent report writing and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and collaboratively within a project team.
• Commitment to health, safety, and environmental best practices.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package aligned with experience.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development, including specialized training and conference attendance.
• Generous annual leave and sick leave allocation.
• Exposure to diverse and challenging infrastructure projects.
• A supportive team environment that encourages knowledge sharing and career progression.
• Flexible working hours and a hybrid work model.
• Company-provided tools and resources for fieldwork and analysis.
• Potential for international project involvement in the future.
• Annual performance reviews and potential for salary increases.