Geotechnical Engineer - Soil Investigations & Foundation Design

Placements24; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Job summary

Placements24, on behalf of a reputable geotechnical consulting firm in Gauteng, seeks a Geotechnical Engineer with 6+ years of foundation design and soil-structure expertise. You will lead site investigations, analyze soil and rock properties, and deliver detailed reports to guide design and construction.

The role requires Pr Eng or Pr Tech Eng registration with ECSA and proficiency in Plaxis/GeoStudio. Strong communication and independent work capability are essential for this on-site position

Qualifications

• Bachelor in Civil Engineering with a Geotechnical specialization.
• Master's degree is advantageous for advanced roles.
• Pr Eng or Pr Tech Eng registration with ECSA is required.
• Minimum 6 years of geotechnical investigations and foundation design experience.
• Experience with borehole, trial pit, and in-situ testing techniques is essential.

Responsibilities

• Plan and manage geotechnical site investigations (boreholes, pits, in-situ tests).
• Analyze soil and rock properties and perform bearing capacity and settlement assessments.
• Design foundations for buildings, bridges, and walls.
• Prepare comprehensive geotechnical investigation reports with actionable recommendations.
• Coordinate with clients, contractors and project managers; ensure regulatory compliance.
• Provide technical support during construction addressing ground condition challenges.

Skills

Geotechnical analysis

Project management

Independent work

Team collaboration

Technical report writing

Education

BEng Civil (Geotechnical)

MEng or MSc (advantageous)

Tools

Plaxis

GeoStudio

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a reputable geotechnical consulting firm located in Tembisa, Gauteng , is looking for a skilled Geotechnical Engineer to join their growing team. This role is crucial for ensuring the stability and safety of foundations for a wide array of construction projects. You will be involved in every stage of the geotechnical investigation process, from initial site assessment and planning to detailed analysis and reporting. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and a keen eye for detail, ensuring that engineering solutions are both practical and cost-effective. As a key member of the team, you will contribute to significant urban development and infrastructure initiatives within the region, working on challenging projects that demand innovative geotechnical expertise. This is a hands-on role for an engineer passionate about understanding soil behavior and its implications in construction.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, execute, and manage geotechnical site investigations, including boreholes, trial pits, and in-situ testing.
• Analyze soil and rock samples to determine their physical and chemical properties.
• Perform detailed geotechnical analyses, including slope stability, bearing capacity, and settlement calculations.
• Design foundations for various structures, including buildings, bridges, and retaining walls.
• Prepare comprehensive geotechnical investigation reports, providing clear recommendations for design and construction.
• Liaise with clients, contractors, and project managers to discuss findings and recommendations.
• Ensure compliance with relevant geotechnical standards, codes of practice, and environmental regulations.
• Provide technical support and guidance during the construction phase to address any unexpected ground conditions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering with a specialization in Geotechnical Engineering. A Master's degree is advantageous.
• Professional Engineer (Pr Eng) or Professional Engineering Technologist (Pr Tech Eng) registration with ECSA.
• Minimum of 6 years of relevant experience in geotechnical investigations and foundation design.
• Proficiency in geotechnical software such as Plaxis, GeoStudio, or similar analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and engineering geology.
• Experience with various site investigation techniques and laboratory testing procedures.
• Excellent report writing and communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information clearly.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, managing multiple projects simultaneously.

Benefits

We offer a competitive salary package, comprehensive medical aid benefits, and a provident fund contribution. Opportunities for professional growth, advanced training, and attending industry conferences are provided. This role is based in a vibrant area of Gauteng and offers a stable, challenging work environment with a supportive team. We invest in our employees' development, ensuring they have the tools and knowledge to excel. The position requires on-site presence for investigations and project coordination.