Lead Geotechnical Engineer - Coastal Developments

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonuses

Provident fund

Medical aid

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Geotechnical Engineer in Cape Town to spearhead complex projects, including foundations and earthworks in coastal settings. You will lead a team of geotechnical professionals, interpret soil and rock data, and advise on how ground conditions influence design and construction.

The role requires a master's or PhD in geotechnical engineering, Pr.Eng registration, and 10+ years of leadership experience.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering or a related field.
• Professional registration with ECSA as a Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng).
• Minimum of 10 years of relevant geotechnical experience with a proven leadership track record.
• Experience in site investigations, laboratory testing interpretation, and geotechnical data analysis.
• Proficiency in geotechnical software such as Plaxis or GeoStudio.

Responsibilities

• Oversee geotechnical aspects of construction projects from site investigation to design and construction support.
• Lead and mentor a team of geotechnical engineers and technicians.
• Conduct site investigations including drilling, sampling, and in-situ testing; interpret results.
• Perform advanced geotechnical analyses including slope stability, foundation design, settlement analysis, and seismic assessments.
• Develop geotechnical investigation reports and provide actionable recommendations for foundation design and ground improvement.
• Liaise with clients, regulatory bodies, and other disciplines to ensure integrated delivery.
• Stay updated with geotechnical advancements and ensure compliance with SA standards and regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Geotechnical software

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering

Tools

Plaxis

GeoStudio

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious engineering consultancy firm, is seeking an accomplished Lead Geotechnical Engineer to spearhead critical projects in Cape Town . This role is central to the successful planning and execution of diverse construction ventures, particularly those involving complex foundations and earthworks in challenging coastal environments. You will be responsible for leading a team of geotechnical specialists, interpreting complex soil and rock mechanics data, and providing expert advice on ground conditions and their implications for design and construction. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a significant impact on major infrastructure and property development projects within the vibrant Western Cape region. We are looking for a visionary leader with a strong analytical foundation and a commitment to excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all geotechnical aspects of construction projects, from initial site investigation to final design and construction support.
• Lead and mentor a team of geotechnical engineers and technicians, ensuring high standards of technical delivery.
• Conduct detailed site investigations, including drilling, sampling, and in-situ testing, and interpret the results.
• Perform advanced geotechnical analyses, including slope stability, foundation design (shallow and deep), settlement analysis, and seismic assessments.
• Develop comprehensive geotechnical investigation reports and provide clear, actionable recommendations for foundation design and ground improvement.
• Liaise with clients, regulatory bodies, and other engineering disciplines to ensure integrated project delivery.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in geotechnical engineering principles and technologies.
• Ensure compliance with relevant South African engineering standards and environmental regulations.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering or a related field.
• Professional registration with ECSA as a Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng).
• Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in geotechnical engineering, with a proven track record in leading projects.
• Extensive experience in site investigation planning and execution, laboratory testing interpretation, and geotechnical data analysis.
• Proficiency in geotechnical software such as Plaxis, GeoStudio suite, or equivalent.
• Strong understanding of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and foundation engineering principles, particularly in coastal and urban settings.
• Experience with South African geological conditions and relevant standards is essential.
• Excellent leadership, project management, and communication skills.
• Ability to travel to project sites as required.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary and benefits package designed to attract and retain top talent.
• This includes performance-based bonuses, a generous provident fund, comprehensive medical aid, and ongoing opportunities for professional development and continuing education.
• You will have the chance to work on flagship projects that contribute to the growth and development of Cape Town and the surrounding regions.
• This role offers a stimulating work environment with opportunities for career advancement within a respected consultancy.
• Join a team dedicated to delivering cutting-edge geotechnical solutions in South Africa 's beautiful Western Cape.