Geotechnical Engineer - Underground Mining Specialist

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Salary package

Health coverage

Retirement plan

Training & conferences

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Geotechnical Engineer for our client in Centurion, Gauteng, to advance underground mine stability through advanced rock mechanics, investigations, and design of ground support. You will work closely with planning and operations, ensuring safety and efficiency in complex mining environments.

The role requires a Master’s in Geotechnical Engineering and at least 7 years of relevant underground mining experience, with proficiency in FLAC and Rocscience tools.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Rock Mechanics, or closely related field.
• Minimum 7 years’ experience in geotechnical engineering, specifically underground mining.
• Proficiency with geotechnical software such as FLAC and Rocscience Suite (Phase2, Slide).
• Strong knowledge of rock mass characterization and support design.
• Experience with underground mining methods and associated geotechnical challenges.
• Excellent reporting and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct geotechnical assessments and site investigations for underground projects.
• Develop rock mechanics analyses and numerical models for mine stability.
• Design and recommend ground support for tunnels, stopes, and shafts.
• Monitor ground conditions and assess support performance.
• Investigate geotechnical failures and propose remediation strategies.
• Provide expert geotechnical guidance to planning and operations teams.
• Develop and manage geotechnical databases.
• Contribute to best practices and standards in geotechnical mining.
• Prepare technical reports, specifications, and presentations.

Skills

Geotechnical analysis

Rock mechanics

Ground support design

Report writing

On-site collaboration

Education

Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering

Tools

FLAC

Rocscience Phase2

Rocscience Slide

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in the mining sector, is seeking a highly competent Geotechnical Engineer to join their team in Centurion, Gauteng . This specialized role focuses on ensuring the stability and safety of underground mining operations. You will be responsible for conducting geotechnical investigations, analyzing rock mechanics, and designing support systems to mitigate risks associated with underground excavations. The ideal candidate will possess a strong theoretical foundation in rock mechanics and practical experience in applying these principles to complex mining environments. This is a critical position that requires meticulous attention to detail and a proactive approach to risk management. You will play an integral part in safeguarding our personnel and assets, ensuring the longevity and efficiency of our client's underground mining ventures in the vibrant Gauteng region. We are looking for an expert who can provide strategic guidance on all geotechnical aspects of underground mine development and operation, ensuring operational continuity and safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive geotechnical assessments and site investigations for underground mining projects.
• Develop and implement rock mechanics analysis and numerical modeling for mine stability.
• Design and recommend appropriate ground support systems for tunnels, stopes, and shafts.
• Monitor ground conditions and assess the performance of support systems.
• Investigate geotechnical failures and develop remediation strategies.
• Provide expert geotechnical advice to mine planning and operations teams.
• Develop and manage geotechnical database systems.
• Contribute to the development of best practices and standards for geotechnical engineering in mining.
• Prepare technical reports, specifications, and presentations.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Rock Mechanics, or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in geotechnical engineering, specifically within the underground mining industry.
• Proficiency in geotechnical software such as FLAC, Rocscience Suite (Phase2, Slide), or similar.
• In-depth knowledge of rock mass characterization, failure mechanisms, and support design.
• Experience with various underground mining methods and their associated geotechnical challenges.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent report writing and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively on-site and in an office environment.
• Professional registration (e.g., Pr. Eng.) with a relevant body is highly preferred.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive salary package commensurate with experience, complemented by performance incentives, comprehensive health coverage, and a robust retirement savings plan. This position is based at our Centurion, Gauteng offices, providing a central and accessible work location. We invest heavily in our employees' professional growth through continuous training, development programs, and opportunities to attend international mining conferences. Join a forward-thinking company dedicated to operational excellence and the safety of its workforce.