Geotechnical Engineer (Senior Level)

Placements24; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

CPD opportunities

Flexible schedule

Annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Geotechnical Engineer to lead geotechnical investigations and design projects in the Cape Town region. The role requires managing project teams and delivering technically sound reports and recommendations for residential, commercial, and infrastructure developments.

The ideal candidate will have a Master's in Geotechnical Engineering, Pr.Eng registration, and at least 7 years of consultancy experience, with strong foundation design and soil mechanics expertise.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering or closely related field.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) registration with ECSA.
• Minimum 7 years of relevant geotechnical consultancy experience.
• Proven experience in foundation design, soil mechanics, and slope stability analysis.

Responsibilities

• Plan, manage, and execute geotechnical investigations and site characterization.
• Interpret lab results to develop geotechnical reports and recommendations.
• Design foundations (shallow and deep), retaining structures, earthworks and slope stability solutions.
• Conduct advanced geotechnical analyses using Plaxis, GeoStudio and Rocscience tools.
• Oversee field operations, including drilling, CPT, and in-situ testing; ensure safety and quality.
• Mentor junior engineers and manage project budgets, schedules and client liaison.

Skills

Project management

Leadership

Report writing

Client communication

Education

Master's in Geotechnical Engineering

Tools

Plaxis 2D/3D

GeoStudio

Rocscience

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent consultancy in the field of geotechnical engineering, is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Senior Geotechnical Engineer to join their established team in Cape Town, Western Cape. This role is critical for overseeing and executing a wide range of geotechnical investigations and design projects across various sectors, including residential, commercial, and infrastructure development in the Cape Town region. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing project teams, ensuring the highest standards of technical quality, and fostering client relationships. This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned professional to contribute significantly to challenging and impactful projects in one of South Africa's most dynamic cities.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, manage, and execute geotechnical investigations, including site characterization, soil and rock mechanics assessments, and foundation design.
• Interpret and analyse site investigation data, including laboratory testing results, to develop comprehensive geotechnical reports and recommendations.
• Design foundations (shallow and deep), retaining structures, earthworks, and slope stability solutions for a variety of projects.
• Conduct advanced geotechnical analyses using specialised software (e.g., Plaxis, GeoStudio, Rocscience suite).
• Oversee field operations, including drilling, CPT, and in‑situ testing, ensuring safety and quality control.
• Review and approve geotechnical designs and reports prepared by junior engineers.
• Manage project budgets, schedules, and resources to ensure timely and cost‑effective project delivery.
• Liaise with clients, regulatory authorities, and other project stakeholders to ensure successful project outcomes in Cape Town.
• Contribute to business development efforts by preparing proposals and participating in client meetings.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior geotechnical engineers and technicians.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering or a closely related field from a recognised university.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) registration with ECSA.
• A minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in geotechnical engineering, with a strong focus on consultancy and project management.
• Proven experience in foundation design, soil mechanics, and slope stability analysis.
• Proficiency in geotechnical modelling software (e.g., Plaxis 2D/3D, GeoStudio suite).
• Strong understanding of South African geological conditions and relevant SANS codes.
• Excellent report writing and communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly.
• Demonstrated leadership abilities and experience managing project teams.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to project sites as required.
• Experience with seismic analysis and liquefaction assessment is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, including performance incentives and a contribution to a retirement fund.
• Comprehensive medical aid benefits are provided, along with opportunities for continuous professional development and training.
• Employees will have the chance to work on a diverse portfolio of challenging and exciting projects in and around Cape Town.
• The company fosters a collaborative and supportive work environment, with clear pathways for career progression.
• Enjoy a flexible work schedule and generous annual leave, contributing to a healthy work‑life balance in the beautiful Western Cape.