Geotechnical Engineer - Underground Mining

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Accommodation provided

Transport assistance

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Geotechnical Engineer to join an expanding team supporting underground mining operations near Bloemfontein. You will conduct geotechnical assessments, design ground support, and advise mine planning and operations for safe excavation and development.

Ideal candidate has a Master's in geotechnical/related field with geomechanics focus and at least 7 years of underground mining experience, with FLAC/RocScience skills.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Mining Engineering, or related with geomechanics specialization.
• Minimum 7 years of geotechnical experience, focused on underground mining projects.
• Proficiency with geotechnical software for modeling and analysis (FLAC, RocScience).
• Experience with instrumentation and monitoring of underground excavations.

Responsibilities

• Conduct geotechnical site investigations including core logging, lab testing, and field measurements.
• Analyze data to assess ground conditions and risks such as rock bursts and water ingress.
• Design and specify ground support systems (rock bolts, mesh, shotcrete).
• Monitor performance of excavations and support systems; recommend adjustments.
• Provide technical guidance to mine planning and operations for safe development.

Skills

Geotechnical engineering

Rock mechanics

Underground mining

Education

Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering

Tools

FLAC

RocScience

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for a highly skilled Geotechnical Engineer to join their expanding team supporting underground mining operations near Bloemfontein . This role is critical for ensuring the stability and safety of mine excavations, tunnels, and underground infrastructure. You will be responsible for conducting detailed geotechnical assessments, designing ground support systems, and providing expert advice to mine planning and operations teams. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of rock mechanics and the practical application of geotechnical principles in a challenging underground mining environment .

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct geotechnical site investigations, including core logging, laboratory testing, and field measurements.
• Analyze geological and geotechnical data to assess ground conditions and potential risks such as rock bursts, fault movement, and water ingress.
• Design and specify appropriate ground support systems, including rock bolts, mesh, shotcrete, and other reinforcement measures.
• Monitor the performance of underground excavations and ground support systems, recommending adjustments as necessary.
• Provide technical guidance and support to mine planning and operational personnel, ensuring safe and efficient mine development and production.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Mining Engineering, or a related discipline with a specialization in geomechanics.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in geotechnical engineering, with a significant focus on underground mining projects .
• Proficiency in geotechnical software for modeling and analysis (e.g., FLAC, RocScience suite).
• Experience with instrumentation and monitoring techniques for underground excavations.
• Strong analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and excellent report writing capabilities for projects around Bloemfontein .

Benefits

• Competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and provident fund.
• Opportunities for professional development, further training, and career progression.
• Exposure to diverse geological conditions and complex mining challenges.
• Accommodation and transport assistance provided for site-based work.
• A role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of critical underground mining infrastructure.