Geotechnical Engineer - Surface Mining

Placements24; Gqeberha; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health & wellness benefits

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, seeks a Geotechnical Engineer to support surface mining projects. The role focuses on stability of open pit slopes, tailings facilities, and related infrastructure, requiring strong knowledge of soil and rock mechanics and hydrogeology.

You will conduct site investigations, use SLOPE/W, SEEP/W, and GEOSTUDIO, prepare technical reports, and collaborate with mine planning, operations, and regulatory teams to ensure safety and compliance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil or Mining Engineering with geotechnical focus.
• Minimum 6 years in geotechnical engineering for surface mining or civil infra.
• Experience with site investigations and lab data interpretation.
• Familiarity with SA geotechnical standards and mining practices.

Responsibilities

• Perform geotechnical investigations and site characterization.
• Conduct stability analyses for open pit slopes and tailings facilities.
• Develop geotechnical designs and mitigation measures.
• Monitor instrumentation and analyze data for risk management.
• Prepare technical reports and liaise with regulatory bodies.

Skills

Geotechnical analysis

SLOPE/W

SEEP/W

GEOSTUDIO

Soil mechanics

Rock mechanics

Hydrogeology

Site investigations

Instrumentation monitoring

Technical reporting

Team collaboration

SA geotechnical standards

Education

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or Mining Engineering

Geotechnical specialization

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

SLOPE/W

SEEP/W

GEOSTUDIO

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a major force in the mining industry, requires a skilled Geotechnical Engineer to focus on surface mining operations in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape . This role is essential for ensuring the stability and safety of open pit mines, tailings storage facilities, and associated infrastructure. The Geotechnical Engineer will conduct site investigations, perform stability analyses, and develop geotechnical designs and mitigation strategies. You will work closely with mine operations, planning, and environmental teams to manage geotechnical risks effectively. This position presents a fantastic opportunity to contribute to significant surface mining projects within a company that values safety, sustainability, and technical excellence. We are looking for a dedicated professional with a strong understanding of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and hydrogeology as they apply to open pit mining environments. The ideal candidate will be adept at using specialized software and interpreting complex geological and geotechnical data.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform geotechnical investigations, including site characterization, soil and rock mass properties testing.
• Conduct stability analyses for open pit slopes, excavations, and tailings storage facilities using appropriate software.
• Develop and recommend geotechnical designs and mitigation measures for slope stability, dewatering, and drainage.
• Monitor geotechnical performance using instrumentation (e.g., piezometers, inclinometers, extensometers) and analyze monitoring data.
• Assess geological hazards and provide recommendations for risk management.
• Collaborate with mine planning and operations teams to integrate geotechnical requirements into mine designs and schedules.
• Prepare comprehensive geotechnical reports, specifications, and technical recommendations.
• Ensure compliance with relevant geotechnical codes, standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Liaise with external consultants and regulatory bodies on geotechnical matters.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of geotechnical management systems.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or Mining Engineering with a specialization in Geotechnical Engineering. A Master's degree is preferred.
• Minimum of 6 years of relevant experience in geotechnical engineering, with a focus on surface mining or civil infrastructure projects.
• Proficiency in geotechnical analysis software such as SLOPE/W, SEEP/W, GEOSTUDIO, or similar.
• Strong understanding of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and hydrogeology principles.
• Experience with site investigation techniques and laboratory testing interpretation.
• Familiarity with instrumentation and monitoring of geotechnical structures.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including report writing and presentation abilities.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Familiarity with relevant South African geotechnical standards and mining practices is an advantage.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, retirement savings plan, and performance-based incentives.
• This role is located in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape , providing a chance to work on impactful projects with a leading mining organization.
• We are dedicated to fostering a safe, inclusive, and growth-oriented work culture.
• Relocation assistance may be provided.
• This is an excellent career opportunity for a talented geotechnical engineer to make a significant contribution to our operations.