Lead Geotechnical Engineer - Mine Stability

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Conference attendance

Career advancement

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Geotechnical Engineer to oversee a team in Pretoria, driving geotechnical analyses for underground and open-pit mining operations. You will design ground support, monitor conditions, and advise on excavation stability and seismic risks.

The role requires 8+ years in mining geotechnics, MSc/PhD, and strong leadership and communication skills to mentor engineers and coordinate with mine planning teams. SA mining practices and safety regulations are essential.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering, Rock Mechanics, or related discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in geotechnical engineering within the mining industry.
• Expertise in underground mine design, excavation support, and stability analysis.
• Proficiency in geotechnical software such as FLAC3D, Rocscience Suite (Slide, Phase2, RS2) or similar.
• Strong understanding of rock mass characterization, stress analysis, and seismic monitoring.
• Excellent leadership, project management, and communication skills.
• Experience in managing geotechnical investigations and site investigations.
• Familiarity with South African geological conditions and mining practices advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed geotechnical assessments for underground and open-pit mines.
• Design and implement ground support systems to ensure stability and safety.
• Develop and manage geotechnical monitoring programs, including instrumentation and data interpretation.
• Provide expert advice on excavation stability, slope stability, and seismic hazards.
• Lead and mentor a team of geotechnical engineers and technicians.
• Collaborate with mine planning engineers to integrate geotechnical considerations into designs.
• Develop and review geotechnical risk assessments and mitigation strategies.
• Ensure compliance with mining regulations and industry best practices.
• Prepare comprehensive geotechnical reports, specifications, and recommendations.
• Stay updated with advances in geotechnical software and techniques.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Geotechnical analysis

Rock mechanics

Education

MSc or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering, Rock Mechanics, or related

Tools

FLAC3D

Rocscience Suite (Slide, Phase2, RS2)

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the Mining sector, is seeking a highly skilled Lead Geotechnical Engineer to join their technical services team in Pretoria, Gauteng . This pivotal role will be responsible for ensuring the stability and safety of underground and open-pit mine excavations through expert geotechnical analysis and design. The Lead Geotechnical Engineer will oversee a team of geotechnical specialists, manage complex projects, and provide critical input into mine design and operational planning. This is an exciting opportunity to work on diverse projects, utilize advanced geotechnical modeling software, and contribute to the safe and efficient operation of our client's mining assets. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in rock mechanics, ground support design, and hazard assessment within mining environments. You will be key in mitigating geotechnical risks and ensuring compliance with stringent safety regulations.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed geotechnical assessments and analyses for underground and open-pit mines.
• Design and implement ground support systems to ensure mine stability and safety.
• Develop and manage geotechnical monitoring programs, including instrumentation installation and data interpretation.
• Provide expert advice on excavation stability, slope stability, and seismic hazards.
• Lead and mentor a team of geotechnical engineers and technicians.
• Collaborate with mine planning engineers to integrate geotechnical considerations into mine designs.
• Develop and review geotechnical risk assessments and mitigation strategies.
• Ensure compliance with relevant mining regulations and industry best practices for geotechnical engineering.
• Prepare comprehensive geotechnical reports, technical specifications, and recommendations.
• Stay updated with the latest advancements in geotechnical engineering software and techniques.

Requirements

• MSc or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering, Rock Mechanics, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in geotechnical engineering within the Mining industry.
• Proven expertise in underground mine design, excavation support, and stability analysis.
• Proficiency in geotechnical software such as FLAC3D, Rocscience suite (Slide, Phase2, RS2), or similar.
• Strong understanding of rock mass characterization, stress analysis, and seismic monitoring.
• Excellent leadership, project management, and communication skills.
• Experience in managing geotechnical investigations and site investigations.
• Familiarity with the geological conditions and mining practices in South Africa is advantageous.
• Ability to interpret complex data and provide practical, cost-effective solutions.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and professional development.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, including performance-related bonuses, comprehensive medical aid, and a generous retirement fund. Opportunities for professional development, including advanced training and conference attendance, are readily available. This role is based in Pretoria, Gauteng , offering a dynamic professional environment. Our client is committed to promoting a safe, inclusive, and sustainable working culture, with a strong emphasis on employee well-being and career advancement.