Lead Geotechnical Engineer

Placements24; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Industry-leading salary

Bonus structure

Health and retirement benefits

Professional development support

Centurion office facilities

Career advancement opportunities

Annual leave and holidays

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Lead Geotechnical Engineer for our Centurion, Gauteng office. You will head a team of geotechnical experts, directing site investigations, complex analyses, and the preparation of reports and construction supervision plans.

You will ensure compliance with South African codes and international best practices, while managing budgets and client relationships for geotechnical projects. An opportunity to drive innovation and tech leadership awaits.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Geotechnical Engineering.
• At least 10 years in geotechnical engineering with leadership experience.
• Pr.Eng registration with ECSA is mandatory.
• Expertise in soil mechanics, rock mechanics, foundation engineering, and slope stability.
• Proficiency with geotechnical software such as PLAXIS or GeoStudio.

Responsibilities

• Lead geotechnical engineering team providing technical direction and mentorship.
• Oversee site investigations including drilling, sampling and in-situ testing.
• Perform advanced geotechnical analyses for foundations, slopes, tunnels and retaining structures.
• Develop geotechnical reports, design recommendations and construction supervision plans.
• Ensure compliance with SA geotechnical codes and international best practices.
• Manage project schedules, budgets and client relationships for geotechnical aspects.
• Liaise with clients, contractors and regulators to meet project objectives.
• Review and approve geotechnical designs and reports by team members.
• Stay updated on latest geotechnical engineering developments.
• Contribute to business development via proposals and client presentations.

Skills

Lead team leadership

Geotechnical engineering

Soil mechanics

Rock mechanics

Seismic engineering

Project management

Client relations

Communication

Report review

Mentorship

Education

Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering

Ph.D. in Geotechnical Engineering

Pr.Eng registration with ECSA

Tools

PLAXIS

GeoStudio

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent geotechnical engineering firm, is seeking a highly accomplished Lead Geotechnical Engineer to spearhead their operations in Centurion, Gauteng. This critical role involves leading a team of geotechnical experts in assessing ground conditions, designing foundations, and providing solutions for complex infrastructure and building projects. You will be the technical authority, responsible for the quality and accuracy of all geotechnical investigations and designs produced by the team. The position requires a deep understanding of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and seismic engineering, coupled with strong leadership abilities and a commitment to client satisfaction. Working within our Centurion office means being part of a vibrant hub of engineering innovation, contributing to significant developments across the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the geotechnical engineering team, providing technical direction and mentorship.
• Oversee the planning and execution of site investigations, including drilling, sampling, and in-situ testing.
• Conduct advanced geotechnical analyses for foundations, slopes, tunnels, and earth retaining structures.
• Develop comprehensive geotechnical reports, design recommendations, and construction supervision plans.
• Ensure all work complies with relevant South African geotechnical codes and international best practices.
• Manage project schedules, budgets, and client relationships for geotechnical aspects of projects.
• Liaise with clients, contractors, and regulatory authorities to ensure project objectives are met.
• Review and approve geotechnical designs and reports prepared by team members.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in geotechnical engineering technology and methodologies.
• Contribute to business development efforts, including proposal writing and client presentations.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Geotechnical Engineering or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in geotechnical engineering, with a significant portion in a leadership role.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) registration with ECSA is mandatory.
• Expertise in soil mechanics, rock mechanics, foundation engineering, and slope stability analysis.
• Proficiency with geotechnical software such as PLAXIS, GeoStudio, or similar.
• Proven experience managing large, complex geotechnical projects.
• Exceptional leadership, team management, and communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Experience with seismic analysis and retrofitting is advantageous.Must be able to work full-time from our Centurion office.

Benefits

• An industry-leading salary and bonus structure.
• Opportunity to lead challenging and high-profile projects in Gauteng.
• Comprehensive health insurance and retirement benefits.
• Support for professional development, certifications, and conference attendance.
• State-of-the-art office facilities in Centurion.
• A culture that promotes technical excellence and innovation.
• Significant opportunities for career advancement.
• Annual leave and company holidays.