Geotechnical Engineer - Underground Stability

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Geotechnical Engineer to ensure stability of underground mining infrastructure in Polokwane. The role involves site investigations, data analysis, and designing ground support for tunnels and stopes, collaborating with mine planning and operations teams to implement effective geotechnical strategies.

The ideal candidate has a strong background in rock mechanics, experience with Rocscience and FLAC, and a proven ability to work on-site in a multidisciplinary team within

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Civil, Mining, or Geotechnical Engineering.
• 5+ years of geotechnical experience in underground mining.
• Proficiency with Rocscience suite and FLAC.
• Strong rock mechanics knowledge and analytical skills.
• Ability to work in a multidisciplinary team and on-site in Polokwane.

Responsibilities

• Conduct geotechnical site investigations and data collection for rock mass characterization.
• Analyze rock mechanics data and perform stability analyses for underground excavations.
• Design and recommend ground support systems (e.g., rock bolts, mesh, shotcrete).
• Monitor ground conditions and assess performance of support systems during operations.
• Develop geotechnical models and provide input for mine design and planning.
• Investigate geotechnical incidents and recommend corrective actions.
• Collaborate with mine engineers, geologists, and operations personnel on geotechnical issues.
• Prepare technical reports, specifications, and drawings; ensure compliance with geotechnical standards.

Skills

Site investigations

Rock mechanics

Data analysis

Ground support design

Education

Bachelor's in Civil Engineering

Bachelor's in Mining Engineering

Bachelor's in Geotechnical Engineering

Tools

Rocscience

FLAC

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading mining operator in the Polokwane region, is seeking a skilled Geotechnical Engineer to ensure the stability and safety of underground mining infrastructure. This role is essential for assessing geological conditions and providing engineering solutions to mitigate risks associated with rock mass behavior. You will be involved in site investigations, data analysis, and the design of support systems for tunnels, stopes, and other underground openings. The successful candidate will work closely with mine planning and operations teams to implement effective geotechnical strategies. This is a hands‑on role requiring a strong technical background and practical experience in underground mining environments. Join a dedicated team committed to safe and efficient mining practices in the Limpopo province. Your expertise will be vital in maintaining operational integrity and worker safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct geotechnical site investigations and data collection, including rock mass characterization.
• Analyze rock mechanics data and perform stability analyses for underground excavations.
• Design and recommend appropriate ground support systems (e.g., rock bolts, mesh, shotcrete).
• Monitor ground conditions and assess the performance of support systems during mining operations.
• Develop geotechnical models and provide input for mine design and planning.
• Investigate geotechnical incidents and recommend corrective actions.
• Collaborate with mine engineers, geologists, and operations personnel on geotechnical issues.
• Prepare technical reports, specifications, and design drawings related to geotechnical engineering.
• Ensure compliance with relevant geotechnical standards and best practices.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Mining Engineering, or Geotechnical Engineering.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in geotechnical engineering, with a focus on underground mining.
• Proficiency in geotechnical analysis software (e.g., Rocscience suite, FLAC).
• Strong understanding of rock mechanics principles and underground excavation behavior.
• Experience with ground support design and implementation.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Must be able to work on‑site in the Polokwane area.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid and a provident fund.
• Relocation assistance may be provided.

Join a stable company dedicated to operational excellence and employee well‑being near Polokwane.