Lead Geotechnical Engineer - Mossel Bay Offshore Project

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation package

Bonuses

Medical and retirement benefits

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Geotechnical Engineer for Mossel Bay, Western Cape to lead offshore geotechnical investigations and design for critical offshore structures. You will mentor engineers, oversee site investigations (boreholes, CPT, geophysics), and develop foundation designs ensuring safety and compliance.

The role requires a Master’s or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering with 10+ years of offshore experience, strong data interpretation, and proficient use of Plaxis, GeoStudio, and

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Geotechnical Engineering or closely related field
• Minimum 10 years of offshore geotechnical experience with foundation design for offshore structures
• Experience with seabed sampling and in-situ testing
• Proficiency in geotechnical software such as Plaxis, GeoStudio, gINT or similar
• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills
• Strong understanding of soil and rock mechanics and engineering geology
• Excellent report writing, communication, and presentation skills
• Familiarity with SA regulatory requirements and offshore standards is a plus
• Willingness to travel to project sites with Mossel Bay-based hybrid working
• Ability to collaborate in a fast-paced project environment

Responsibilities

• Lead the geotechnical investigation and analysis program for offshore structures
• Develop and review detailed geotechnical designs for foundations, pipelines, and subsea infrastructure
• Manage and mentor a team of geotechnical engineers and geologists
• Oversee offshore site investigations, including borehole drilling, CPT, and geophysical surveys
• Interpret and analyze large datasets from site investigations and lab testing
• Perform advanced numerical modeling and soil-structure interaction simulations
• Ensure compliance with international codes, standards and offshore best practices
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary project teams across engineering disciplines
• Prepare high-quality technical reports, specifications, and design documents
• Provide expert advice and technical support throughout FEED to construction and decommissioning phases

Skills

Geotechnical leadership

Offshore geotechnical

Data interpretation

Technical reporting

Project management

Education

Master's or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering

Tools

Plaxis

GeoStudio

gINT

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized engineering consultancy, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Lead Geotechnical Engineer to join their dynamic team in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. This role is crucial for a significant offshore energy project, demanding expertise in subsurface investigation, analysis, and foundation design for complex marine structures. The Lead Geotechnical Engineer will be responsible for providing expert technical guidance, managing geotechnical aspects of the project, and ensuring the integrity and safety of all related designs. This is an exceptional opportunity to work on cutting‑edge offshore developments in a strategically important region. The Mossel Bay location provides access to a vibrant coastal community and a burgeoning energy sector. We are looking for a visionary leader who can drive innovation and deliver exceptional results in a challenging offshore environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the geotechnical investigation and analysis program for offshore structures.
• Develop and review detailed geotechnical designs for foundations, pipelines, and other subsea infrastructure.
• Manage and mentor a team of geotechnical engineers and geologists.
• Oversee the planning and execution of offshore site investigations, including borehole drilling, CPT, and geophysical surveys.
• Interpret and analyze large datasets from site investigations and laboratory testing.
• Perform advanced numerical modeling and simulations for soil‑structure interaction.
• Ensure compliance with relevant international codes, standards, and best practices for offshore geotechnical engineering.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary project teams, including structural engineers, marine engineers, and environmental scientists.
• Prepare high‑quality technical reports, specifications, and design documents.
• Provide expert advice and technical support throughout the project lifecycle, from FEED to construction and decommissioning.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. degree in Geotechnical Engineering or a closely related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in offshore geotechnical engineering, with a strong focus on foundation design for offshore platforms, wind turbines, or similar structures.
• Extensive experience with geotechnical investigation techniques and data interpretation (including seabed sampling, in‑situ testing).
• Proficiency in geotechnical software such as Plaxis, GeoStudio, gINT, or similar.
• Demonstrated experience in leading and managing engineering teams.
• Strong understanding of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and engineering geology principles.
• Excellent report writing, communication, and presentation skills.
• Experience with South African regulatory requirements and industry standards related to offshore projects is a plus.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, fast‑paced project environment.
• Willingness to travel to project sites as required, with flexibility for Mossel Bay-based hybrid working arrangements.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, including an attractive annual salary, performance bonuses, and comprehensive medical and retirement benefits. Professional development opportunities, including continuous training and support for professional registration, are readily available. This role offers the chance to work on highly visible and impactful projects, contributing to the energy landscape in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. A stimulating work environment and the opportunity to lead a talented team are key advantages of this position.