Geotechnical Engineer - Surface Mining Operations

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement planning

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a qualified Geotechnical Engineer in Rustenburg, North West, to ensure stability and safety of surface mining infrastructure, including open pits, waste dumps, and tailings storage facilities. The successful candidate will perform geotechnical assessments, develop design parameters, and monitor performance.

The role requires 5+ years in mining geotechnical engineering, proficiency with Rocscience/Plaxis/GeoStudio, and strong report writing.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering or Civil Engineering with a Geotechnical specialization.
• Minimum of 5 years of relevant mining geotechnical experience.
• Proficiency in Rocscience, Plaxis or GeoStudio.
• Strong soil and rock mechanics knowledge.
• Excellent report writing and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct geotechnical investigations for open pits, waste dumps, and TSFs.
• Perform slope stability analyses and provide safe operating limits.
• Develop design parameters for geotechnical structures.
• Monitor structures via instrumentation and site inspections.
• Prepare geotechnical reports and risk assessments.
• Collaborate with mine planning to integrate geotechnical factors.
• Investigate incidents and advise corrective actions.
• Stay updated with geotechnical engineering advancements.
• Ensure compliance with codes and regulatory requirements.

Education

Geotechnical or Civil Engineering with Geotechnical specialization

Tools

Rocscience Suite

Plaxis

GeoStudio

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent mining entity, is seeking a qualified and experienced Geotechnical Engineer to join their team in Rustenburg, North West . This crucial role focuses on ensuring the stability and safety of surface mining infrastructure, including open pits, waste dumps, and tailings storage facilities. The successful candidate will be responsible for performing geotechnical assessments, developing design parameters, and providing ongoing monitoring and analysis to mitigate potential risks. You will work closely with mine engineers, geologists, and environmental specialists to integrate geotechnical considerations into mine planning and operational execution. This position requires a strong understanding of soil and rock mechanics, slope stability analysis, and relevant geotechnical investigation techniques. We are looking for an individual who can apply advanced engineering principles to real-world mining challenges in the challenging geological environment of the North West province. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute your expertise to a major mining operation and enhance your career in geotechnical engineering within the vital platinum belt region.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct geotechnical investigations and assessments for open pit slopes, waste rock dumps, and tailings storage facilities in the Rustenburg area.
• Perform slope stability analyses using specialized software and provide recommendations for safe operating limits.
• Develop design parameters and guidelines for the construction and management of mining-related geotechnical structures.
• Monitor the performance of geotechnical structures through instrumentation, site inspections, and data analysis.
• Prepare detailed geotechnical reports, risk assessments, and recommendations for mine operations.
• Collaborate with mine planning teams to ensure geotechnical factors are adequately considered in mine design and production scheduling.
• Investigate and advise on geotechnical incidents or failures, recommending corrective actions.
• Stay abreast of advancements in geotechnical engineering principles and their application to mining.
• Ensure compliance with relevant geotechnical codes, standards, and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering with a Geotechnical specialization, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in geotechnical engineering, preferably within the mining industry.
• Proficiency in geotechnical analysis software (e.g., Rocscience suite, Plaxis, GeoStudio).
• Strong understanding of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and slope stability principles.
• Experience with geotechnical site investigation techniques (e.g., drilling, CPT, shear tests).
• Ability to interpret geological and geotechnical data and translate it into practical engineering solutions.
• Excellent technical report writing and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Commitment to safety and environmental stewardship in all geotechnical activities.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and retirement planning, and opportunities for professional development and career advancement. This role provides the chance to work on impactful projects within a major mining hub like Rustenburg . Our client is dedicated to fostering a safe and sustainable working environment and supports continuous learning. The hybrid work arrangement allows for flexibility while ensuring operational needs in North West are met. Join a team of dedicated professionals committed to excellence in mining engineering.