Geotechnical Investigation Engineer

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 620,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Travel expenses covered for site vis­-

Remote reporting for some tasks

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Geotechnical Investigation Engineer for a contract position based in or near Mossel Bay, Western Cape. You will plan, execute and interpret site investigations to inform foundation design and construction solutions, collaborating with project managers and site teams to ensure safety, efficiency and best practices.

The ideal candidate has extensive hands-on field experience, strong soil/rock mechanics knowledge and proven reporting capabilities, with willingness to travel to

Qualifications

• 6+ years of proven experience in geotechnical site investigations and report writing.
• Strong understanding of soil and rock mechanics.
• Experience with CPT, SPT, and pressuremeter testing.
• Familiarity with South African geotechnical codes and standards.
• Ability to travel to project sites around Mossel Bay, Western Cape.

Responsibilities

• Plan and manage geotechnical site investigation programs (boreholes, in-situ tests).
• Supervise field crews and ensure data quality control.
• Collect, log and interpret soil/rock strata information.
• Oversee laboratory testing to determine engineering properties.
• Prepare detailed geotechnical investigation reports with site characterization and design recommendations.
• Liaise with clients, contractors and project teams on investigation findings.
• Ensure fieldwork safety and regulatory compliance.
• Utilize geotechnical software for analysis and reporting.
• Provide technical support during construction related to ground conditions.

Skills

Geotechnical engineering

Site investigation planning

Report writing

Field supervision

Data interpretation

Education

Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or Geosciences

Tools

Geotechnical software

Job description

Our client, a highly regarded consultancy firm specializing in ground engineering, is seeking a skilled Geotechnical Investigation Engineer for a contract position based in or near Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This role focuses on the planning, execution, and interpretation of site investigations to inform foundation design and construction solutions. The ideal candidate will have extensive hands-on experience in field investigations, a strong understanding of soil and rock mechanics, and the ability to produce accurate and comprehensive geotechnical reports. You will work closely with project managers and site teams to ensure that investigations are conducted safely, efficiently, and in line with project requirements and industry best practices. This position offers the flexibility of a contract role with the opportunity to work on diverse coastal and inland projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and manage geotechnical site investigation programs, including borehole drilling and in-situ testing.
• Supervise field investigation crews and ensure quality control of data acquisition.
• Collect, log, and interpret soil and rock strata information.
• Oversee laboratory testing of soil and rock samples to determine engineering properties.
• Conduct geotechnical analyses for various foundation types, slope stability, and earthworks.
• Prepare detailed geotechnical investigation reports, including site characterization and design recommendations.
• Liaise with clients, contractors, and internal project teams regarding investigation requirements and findings.
• Ensure all fieldwork is conducted safely and in compliance with environmental regulations.
• Utilize geotechnical software for analysis and reporting.
• Provide technical support during the construction phase related to ground conditions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering or Geosciences with a specialization in Geotechnical Engineering.
• Minimum of 6 years of proven experience in geotechnical site investigations and report writing.
• Solid understanding of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and foundation engineering principles.
• Experience with various investigation techniques (e.g., CPT, SPT, pressuremeter testing).
• Familiarity with South African geotechnical codes and standards.
• Proficiency in relevant geotechnical investigation and analysis software.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively.Willingness to travel to project sites in and around Mossel Bay, Western Cape .

Benefits

• Competitive contract rate commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to engage in a variety of interesting geotechnical projects.
• Flexible working arrangements possible, with remote reporting for some tasks.
• Gain exposure to diverse geological conditions and project types.
• Work with a respected and experienced team in the field of ground engineering.
• Potential for contract extension based on performance and project needs.
• Travel expenses covered for site visits.
• Access to advanced investigation equipment and methodologies.
• Professional development opportunities relevant to geotechnical investigations.
• Direct contribution to crucial infrastructure development projects.