Geotechnical Engineer – Mine Stability & Design

Placements24; Richards Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 332,000 - 590,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an accomplished Geotechnical Engineer to support mining projects from a remote location around Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal. You will analyze ground conditions, perform stability assessments, and contribute to safe mine design by translating complex data into actionable recommendations.

The role requires a Master’s/PhD in geotechnical engineering or related field, 7+ years in mining, and proficiency with FLAC, Slide or RocData.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 7 years of geotechnical experience in mining.
• Proficiency in numerical modelling software such as FLAC, Slide, RocData.
• Strong knowledge of rock mechanics, soil mechanics and slope stability.
• Experience with field investigations and borehole data interpretation.
• Excellent reporting and presenting skills.
• Ability to work autonomously in a remote setting.
• Familiarity with SA mining codes is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed geotechnical investigations and data analysis, including laboratory testing interpretation.
• Perform stability analyses for open pit slopes, underground excavations, and tailings facilities.
• Develop geotechnical risk assessments and mitigation plans.
• Provide geotechnical input for mine design and planning.
• Review and approve geotechnical aspects of mining project designs.
• Monitor ground conditions and instrumentation performance.
• Advise on best practices for ground support and excavation methods.
• Develop and implement geotechnical management systems.

Skills

Geotechnical engineering

Rock mechanics

Analytical thinking

Report writing

Project management

Education

Master's or PhD in Geotechnical/Civil/Mining with geotechnical focus

Tools

FLAC

Slide

RocData

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading entity in the mining sector, is seeking a highly qualified Geotechnical Engineer to provide specialized expertise on a contract basis. This role will focus on ensuring the stability and safety of our mining operations in the vicinity of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , though the work will be performed remotely. You will be responsible for analyzing ground conditions, assessing risks, and developing mitigation strategies for both underground and open-pit mine designs. This is a crucial position that requires a deep understanding of rock mechanics, soil mechanics, and slope stability analysis. The ideal candidate will possess a strong analytical capability and a proven ability to translate complex geotechnical data into actionable engineering recommendations. This is a remote-first opportunity, allowing you to contribute your expertise from anywhere, supporting critical mine design and safety initiatives for our client’s significant projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed geotechnical investigations and data analysis, including laboratory testing interpretation.
• Perform stability analyses for open pit slopes, underground excavations, and tailings storage facilities.
• Develop geotechnical risk assessments and mitigation plans.
• Provide geotechnical input and recommendations for mine design and planning.
• Review and approve geotechnical aspects of mining project designs.
• Monitor ground conditions and performance of excavations using appropriate instrumentation.
• Advise on best practices for ground support and excavation methods.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of geotechnical management systems.
• Prepare comprehensive geotechnical reports and present findings to project teams and management.
• Ensure compliance with relevant geotechnical engineering standards and mining regulations.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering with a specialization in Geotechnics, or Mining Engineering with a strong geotechnical focus.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in geotechnical engineering, specifically within the mining industry.
• Demonstrated expertise in numerical modelling software for geotechnical analysis (e.g., FLAC, Slide, RocData).
• Strong understanding of rock mechanics, soil mechanics, and slope stability principles.
• Proven experience in conducting field investigations and interpreting borehole and laboratory data.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Superior report writing and technical presentation abilities.
• Ability to work autonomously and manage project timelines effectively in a remote setting.
• Familiarity with South African mining codes and standards is advantageous.
• Must have reliable internet connectivity and a suitable home office environment for remote work.

Benefits

As a contractor, you will be offered a competitive daily or project-based rate commensurate with your experience and expertise. This role provides the flexibility of remote work, allowing for a better work-life balance. You will have the opportunity to work on challenging and significant mining projects, contributing to the safety and success of our client's operations. Our client values professional input and provides clear project scopes and regular communication. This is an excellent opportunity to leverage your specialized geotechnical skills within the dynamic South African mining landscape from a location of your choice.