Lead Geotechnical Engineer - Underground Operations

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Competitive salary and bonus

Health plan

Retirement plan

Insurance

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Lead Geotechnical Engineer to join a fully remote team supporting underground mining safety and design. You will lead investigations, perform stability analyses with FLAC3D/UDEC/Phase2, and guide ground control strategies across diverse projects.

You must hold a Master’s or PhD in geotechnical fields, have 8+ years in underground mining, and excel in analytical thinking, reporting, and collaboration with site and management teams. PE registration is desirable.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering, Rock Mechanics, Civil Engineering (geotechnical focus) or related field.
• Minimum 8 years of progressive geotechnical experience, with underground mining exposure.
• Proficiency in advanced numerical modeling software (FLAC3D, UDEC, Phase2).
• Strong understanding of rock mass classification, failure mechanisms and ground support.
• PE registration is highly desirable.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and report-writing skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead geotechnical investigation programs, data acquisition and interpretation.
• Conduct stability analyses for underground excavations using advanced software.
• Develop design recommendations for ground support systems.
• Provide expert geotechnical input for mine planning, design and operations.
• Develop and oversee GCMPs and monitor their effectiveness.
• Investigate geotechnical incidents and propose preventative measures.
• Mentor junior geotechnical engineers and contribute to professional development.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports, specifications and presentations.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Report-writing

Communication

Independent working

Education

Master's or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering / related field

Tools

FLAC3D

UDEC

Phase2

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Lead Geotechnical Engineer to join their innovative, fully remote team. This role is essential for ensuring the stability and safety of underground mining operations across diverse geological conditions. You will provide expert geotechnical advice, conduct rigorous stability analyses, and develop design recommendations for excavations, support systems, and ground control strategies. This is a unique opportunity to contribute your expertise to critical safety aspects of mining from any location, collaborating with site-based teams and leading geotechnical initiatives. We are looking for a passionate professional with a deep understanding of rock mechanics, ground behavior, and the application of advanced numerical modeling techniques. Your insights will be crucial in mitigating risks and optimizing underground mine design and operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of comprehensive geotechnical investigation programs, including data acquisition and interpretation.
• Conduct detailed stability analyses for underground excavations (e.g., tunnels, stopes, shafts) using advanced numerical modeling software (e.g., FLAC3D, UDEC, Map3D).
• Develop design recommendations for ground support systems, including rock bolting, shotcrete, and other stabilization measures.
• Provide expert geotechnical input for mine planning, design, and operational decision-making.
• Develop and oversee ground control management plans (GCMPs) and monitor their effectiveness.
• Investigate geotechnical incidents and failures, identifying root causes and recommending preventative measures.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in geotechnical engineering and rock mechanics, and their application in the mining industry.
• Mentor and guide junior geotechnical engineers and contribute to the professional development of the team.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports, specifications, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering, Rock Mechanics, Civil Engineering (with a geotechnical focus), or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in geotechnical engineering, with significant experience in underground mining environments.
• Proficiency in advanced numerical modeling software for geotechnical analysis (e.g., FLAC3D, UDEC, Phase2).
• Strong understanding of rock mass classification systems, failure mechanisms, and ground support principles.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and report-writing skills.
• Proven ability to work independently and manage multiple projects effectively in a remote setting.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with site teams and management.
• Professional Engineer (PE) or equivalent registration is highly desirable.

Benefits

This role offers the full benefits of remote work, including flexibility in location and working hours, coupled with a highly competitive salary and bonus structure. Our client provides comprehensive health, retirement, and insurance benefits. You will have access to cutting-edge geotechnical software and tools, and the opportunity to work on challenging and impactful projects that advance safety and operational standards in the mining sector.