Lead Geotechnical Engineer - Infrastructure Development

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Performance bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement benefits

Growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a seasoned Lead Geotechnical Engineer to oversee site investigations and foundation design for major infrastructure in Sandton, Gauteng. The role requires on-site leadership, expert soil/rock mechanics, and coordination with clients and regulators.

Lead fieldwork, analyze data, produce reports, and mentor junior engineers while ensuring designs meet codes and safety standards.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering and Pr. Eng. registration are required.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive geotechnical infrastructure experience.
• Proficiency with PLAXIS, GeoStudio, and SLOPE/W.
• Strong leadership and communication abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead geotechnical site investigations (drilling, in-situ testing, lab analysis).
• Develop foundation designs (deep and shallow), retaining walls.
• Perform stability, settlement, and seismic analyses.
• Prepare comprehensive geotechnical reports with design recommendations.
• Oversee fieldwork and ensure data quality.
• Mentor junior geotechnical engineers and technicians.
• Ensure compliance with geotechnical codes and standards.

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a premier engineering and construction firm, is seeking a highly experienced Lead Geotechnical Engineer to oversee critical geotechnical investigations and design for major infrastructure projects in **Sandton, Gauteng**. This senior role involves managing site investigations, analyzing soil and rock mechanics, and developing foundation designs to ensure the stability and safety of large-scale constructions, including buildings, bridges, and energy facilities. The Lead Geotechnical Engineer will provide expert technical guidance, manage project teams, and ensure designs meet rigorous engineering standards and regulatory requirements. You will be instrumental in delivering successful projects that form the backbone of infrastructure development in **South Africa**. This position requires significant on-site presence for site investigations and project coordination.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage geotechnical site investigations, including drilling, in-situ testing, and laboratory analysis.
• Develop foundation designs for a wide range of structures, including deep foundations, shallow foundations, and retaining walls.
• Perform stability analyses, settlement calculations, and seismic hazard assessments.
• Prepare comprehensive geotechnical reports, including recommendations for design and construction.
• Oversee the execution of geotechnical fieldwork and ensure data quality.
• Provide expert technical review of geotechnical designs and construction methods.
• Liaise with clients, structural engineers, contractors, and regulatory authorities.
• Mentor and develop junior geotechnical engineers and technicians.
• Ensure compliance with relevant geotechnical codes, standards, and best practices.
• Stay current with advancements in geotechnical engineering technology and methodologies.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in geotechnical engineering, with a strong focus on infrastructure projects.
• Demonstrated experience in leading geotechnical investigations and design teams.
• Expertise in soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and foundation engineering principles.
• Proficiency with geotechnical software for analysis and design (e.g., PLAXIS, GeoStudio, SLOPE/W).
• Strong understanding of site investigation techniques and laboratory testing procedures.
• Excellent leadership, project management, and communication skills.
• Proven ability to manage complex technical challenges and deliver high-quality solutions.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration is mandatory.
• Experience working on projects in **Sandton, Gauteng** or similar complex urban environments across **South Africa** is highly valued.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical aid, retirement fund, and life insurance benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and international exposure.
• Lead significant infrastructure projects shaping **South Africa**'s future.
• Company vehicle and travel allowance.
• Collaborative team environment with industry-leading professionals.