Geotechnical Engineer - Site Investigation Specialist

Placements24; George; On-site; ZAR 800,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary based on experience

Comprehensive medical aid

Retirement savings plan

Paid time off

Continuing professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Geotechnical Engineer for our client’s practice in George, Western Cape. You will lead detailed site investigations, interpret test results, and contribute to geotechnical reports and design recommendations.

Join a team focused on soil and rock mechanics, foundation engineering, and ground improvement along the Western Cape. Travel within the region is expected, with opportunities for professional development and collaboration on diverse projects.

Qualifications

• Degree in Civil Engineering with Geotechnical specialization.
• Professional registration with ECSA is desirable.
• 5–7 years of geotechnical site investigations experience.
• Experience with geotechnical testing and interpretation of results.
• Proficiency in geotechnical software is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Plan, manage, and execute geotechnical site investigations (drilling, sampling, in-situ testing).
• Oversee laboratory testing of soil and rock samples.
• Analyze data and prepare geotechnical investigation reports.
• Provide recommendations for foundation design, slope stability, and earthworks.
• Review existing geotechnical data and site conditions.
• Liaise with clients and project teams.
• Develop ground improvement and retaining structure concepts.
• Ensure adherence to geotechnical standards in George and Western Cape.
• Provide technical support during construction for unexpected ground conditions.

Skills

Site investigations

Geotechnical reporting

Data interpretation

Foundation design

Slope stability

Earthworks

Communication

Ground improvement concepts

Retaining structures

Education

Bachelors or Masters in Civil Engineering (Geotechnical)

Tools

Plaxis

GeoStudio Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned geotechnical consultancy, is seeking an experienced Geotechnical Engineer to join their established practice in George, Western Cape . This critical role focuses on conducting comprehensive site investigations and providing expert geotechnical advice for a diverse range of construction and development projects. The ideal candidate will possess a strong foundation in soil mechanics, foundation design, and ground improvement techniques. You will be responsible for planning and executing field investigations, laboratory testing, and interpreting data to produce detailed geotechnical reports. This position offers the chance to work on exciting projects across the beautiful Western Cape region, contributing to the safety and stability of infrastructure. We pride ourselves on delivering technically sound solutions and fostering a collaborative work environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, manage, and execute detailed geotechnical site investigations, including drilling, sampling, and in-situ testing.
• Oversee and interpret laboratory testing of soil and rock samples.
• Analyze geotechnical data and prepare comprehensive geotechnical investigation reports.
• Provide expert recommendations for foundation design, slope stability, and earthworks.
• Conduct reviews of existing geotechnical data and site conditions.
• Liaise with clients, project managers, and construction teams to ensure effective communication of geotechnical requirements.
• Develop conceptual designs for ground improvement and retaining structures.
• Ensure adherence to relevant geotechnical standards and best practices in George and surrounding areas.
• Provide technical support during the construction phase, addressing any unexpected ground conditions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Civil Engineering or a related discipline with a specialization in Geotechnical Engineering.
• Professional registration with ECSA is highly desirable.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of relevant experience in geotechnical engineering, with a focus on site investigations.
• Proven experience in the use of geotechnical investigation equipment and interpretation of test results.
• Proficiency in geotechnical software for analysis and reporting (e.g., Plaxis, GeoStudio Suite) is a plus.
• Strong knowledge of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and foundation engineering principles.
• Excellent report writing and presentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, often under tight deadlines.
• Valid driver's license and a willingness to travel within the Western Cape region for site visits.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience and a performance incentive program.
• Benefits include comprehensive medical aid coverage, a retirement savings plan, and paid time off.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development, including access to training courses and relevant industry seminars, are provided.
• This role offers exposure to a wide variety of challenging projects and the chance to work with a dedicated team of professionals in the beautiful George area.
• Employees will be part of a company that values technical excellence and employee well-being, with a strong focus on work-life balance.