Lead Geotechnical Engineer - Mining

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid

Retirement fund

CPD & international conferences

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Geotechnical Engineer to oversee geotechnical aspects of mining operations in Rustenburg, North West. The role includes guiding mine design, slope stability, ground support, and risk management to ensure safety and efficiency of both underground and open-pit activities.

The candidate should possess an MSc/PhD in Geotechnical or Mining Engineering with 10+ years of experience, proficiency in numerical modeling tools like FLAC and Rocscience, and professional

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering, Mining Engineering or related discipline.
• 10+ years in geotechnical engineering with mining experience.
• Experience with numerical modeling software for geotechnical analysis.
• Registration with a relevant engineering body (e.g., ECSA).

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement geotechnical investigation programs for mine sites.
• Analyze rock mechanics, slope stability, and ground support for underground and open-pit mines.
• Advise on mine design, sequencing and planning to mitigate geotechnical risks.
• Oversee installation and maintenance of geotechnical instrumentation and monitoring networks.
• Analyze monitoring data and prepare geotechnical reports for management and regulators.
• Lead and mentor a team of geotechnical engineers and technicians, promoting safety and continuous improvement.

Skills

Leadership

Geotechnical modeling

Risk management

Communication

Education

MSc or PhD in Geotechnical/Mining Engineering

Tools

FLAC

Rocscience

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading mining operations company, is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Geotechnical Engineer to oversee all geotechnical aspects of their operations in Rustenburg, North West. This critical leadership position involves providing expert guidance on mine design, slope stability, ground support, and risk management to ensure the safety and efficiency of underground and open-pit mining activities. The Lead Geotechnical Engineer will play a key role in developing and implementing advanced geotechnical monitoring and analysis strategies, contributing to the long-term sustainability and profitability of the mining assets. This role demands a strategic thinker with a proven ability to manage complex geotechnical challenges in a demanding mining environment. The successful candidate will be instrumental in upholding the highest standards of safety and operational performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement comprehensive geotechnical investigation programs for new and existing mine sites.
• Conduct detailed analyses of rock mechanics, slope stability, and ground support systems for underground and open-pit mines.
• Provide expert technical advice on mine design, sequencing, and operational planning to mitigate geotechnical risks.
• Oversee the installation and maintenance of geotechnical instrumentation and monitoring networks.
• Analyze monitoring data and prepare regular geotechnical reports for management and regulatory bodies.
• Lead and mentor a team of geotechnical engineers and technicians, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and safety.
• Collaborate with mine planning, production, and safety departments to integrate geotechnical considerations into all mining operations.
• Review and approve geotechnical designs and support measures, ensuring compliance with industry best practices and company standards.
• Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies for potential geotechnical hazards.

Requirements

• MSc or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering, Mining Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in geotechnical engineering, with a significant portion focused on the mining industry.
• Demonstrated expertise in numerical modeling software (e.g., FLAC, Rocscience suite) for geotechnical analysis.
• Strong understanding of rock mechanics, soil mechanics, and structural geology relevant to mining.
• Proven experience in managing geotechnical projects and leading engineering teams.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and reporting skills.
• Professional registration with a relevant engineering body (e.g., ECSA) is essential.
• Experience with various mining methods (underground and open-pit) and associated geotechnical challenges.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and make sound technical decisions.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary package, including substantial performance bonuses and benefits such as comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions. Opportunities for continuous professional development, attendance at international conferences, and career advancement within a globally recognized mining group are provided. The role is based in Rustenburg, North West, offering direct impact on major mining operations. We encourage a strong safety culture and provide the necessary resources to ensure the well-being of our employees.