About the Role Our client is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Lead Geotechnical Engineer to spearhead critical infrastructure projects in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, ZA . This pivotal role demands exceptional leadership qualities, deep technical expertise in soil mechanics and foundation engineering, and a proven ability to manage complex geotechnical investigations and designs. You will be at the forefront of ensuring the stability and integrity of major civil engineering works, from coastal developments to urban infrastructure. This position requires a strategic thinker who can mentor a team of engineers, manage client relationships, and contribute to business development initiatives. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in shaping our client's geotechnical capabilities within the region, ensuring best practices and innovative solutions are consistently applied. We are looking for an individual who is passionate about problem-solving and committed to delivering safe, economical, and sustainable geotechnical designs that meet the highest industry standards. Your expertise will be vital in assessing ground conditions, mitigating risks, and optimizing foundation designs for a variety of challenging projects. This is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact on the development of Port Elizabeth's future infrastructure.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage geotechnical investigations, including site reconnaissance, drilling, sampling, and in-situ testing.
- Interpret geotechnical data and develop comprehensive site characterization reports.
- Design foundations (shallow and deep), earth retaining structures, and slope stability measures.
- Perform advanced geotechnical analyses using specialized software, such as slope stability, settlement, and seepage analyses.
- Develop detailed geotechnical design reports, specifications, and drawings for project execution.
- Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to junior and intermediate geotechnical engineers.
- Oversee construction phase support, including foundation inspections, earthworks monitoring, and problem resolution.
- Liaise with clients, regulatory agencies, and other project stakeholders to ensure successful project outcomes.
- Contribute to tender preparation and business development activities, identifying new opportunities.
- Ensure compliance with all relevant national and international geotechnical standards and codes of practice.
- Manage project budgets and schedules for geotechnical aspects of assigned projects.
- Champion health, safety, and environmental (HSE) best practices in all geotechnical activities.
Requirements
- Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related discipline.
- Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is essential.
- A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in geotechnical engineering, with a significant portion in a lead or senior capacity.
- Extensive experience in designing foundations for diverse structures (buildings, bridges, dams, power plants).
- Proficiency in geotechnical software such as PLAXIS, GEO5, SLOPE/W, SEEP/W, etc.
- Strong understanding of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and engineering geology.
- Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, delivering on time and within budget.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Demonstrated experience in client management and business development.
- Ability to conduct fieldwork and travel to project sites as required.
- Experience with seismic design and analysis is advantageous.Strong report writing and presentation skills.
- Commitment to professional excellence and continuous learning.
Benefits
- Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, complemented by a performance-based bonus structure.
- We provide a comprehensive medical aid scheme and retirement fund contributions.
- Professional development is a key focus, with opportunities for advanced training, conference attendance, and support for further academic pursuits.
- The company culture encourages innovation, collaboration, and a healthy work-life balance.
- Employees benefit from a flexible working arrangement and are provided with resources to enhance their productivity.
- We also offer generous annual leave and opportunities for career advancement within a growing organization.
- This hybrid role allows for a blend of in-office collaboration and remote flexibility, supporting employee well-being and overall job satisfaction.
- Join a respected firm making significant contributions to infrastructure development in Eastern Cape .