Principal Geotechnical Engineer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Private medical insurance

Performance-based bonus

Retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 is partnering with a renowned geotechnical engineering firm to recruit a Principal Geotechnical Engineer in Tembisa, Gauteng. The role leads geotechnical investigations, foundation design, and project delivery for major infrastructure and buildings.

The successful candidate will hold a Masters or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering, be a Pr Eng, with 10+ years of leadership experience, and command PLAXIS and GeoStudio to support complex analyses.

Qualifications

• Master's or Doctoral degree in Geotechnical Engineering.
• Minimum 10 years of geotechnical experience with leadership.
• Professional Engineer (Pr Eng) registration with ECSA.
• Expertise in PLAXIS and GeoStudio numerical modeling.
• Strong knowledge of SA building codes and local geology.

Responsibilities

• Oversee geotechnical investigations from planning to reporting.
• Provide expert advice on foundation design and ground improvement.
• Conduct advanced geotechnical analyses using specialized software.
• Develop and implement investigation programs.
• Lead project teams and manage resources.
• Prepare geotechnical reports and presentations.
• Maintain client relationships and support business development.
• Mentor junior engineers and geologists.
• Ensure safety and quality standards.

Skills

Leadership

Team management

Project management

Verbal communication

Education

Master's or Doctoral degree in Geotechnical Engineering

Tools

PLAXIS

GeoStudio

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned geotechnical engineering firm, is seeking a highly experienced Principal Geotechnical Engineer to lead their operations in Tembisa, Gauteng. This senior position is crucial for expanding our client's service offerings and undertaking complex geotechnical investigations and designs for major infrastructure and building projects. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of soil mechanics, foundation engineering, and site characterization, coupled with strong leadership qualities. You will be responsible for managing a team of geologists and geotechnical engineers, ensuring the highest standards of technical delivery and client satisfaction. This role offers a significant opportunity for career advancement and the chance to shape major development projects in the Gauteng region.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all aspects of geotechnical investigations, from planning to reporting.
• Provide expert geotechnical advice on foundation design, slope stability, earthworks, and ground improvement.
• Conduct advanced geotechnical analyses using specialized software.
• Develop and implement comprehensive geotechnical investigation programs.
• Manage project teams, allocate resources, and ensure timely project completion.
• Prepare high-quality geotechnical reports and technical presentations.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, contractors, and regulatory bodies.
• Mentor and develop junior geotechnical engineers and geologists.
• Contribute to the company's strategic planning and business development initiatives.
• Ensure adherence to all relevant safety, environmental, and quality standards.

Requirements

• Master's or Doctoral degree in Geotechnical Engineering or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in geotechnical engineering, with a significant portion in a senior or leadership role.
• Professional Engineer (Pr Eng) registration with ECSA is mandatory.
• Expertise in numerical modeling software (e.g., PLAXIS, GeoStudio).
• Extensive knowledge of local geological conditions and South African building codes.
• Proven track record of managing large and complex geotechnical projects.
• Strong leadership, team management, and project management skills.
• Excellent report writing and verbal communication abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Benefits

This position comes with a highly competitive salary and benefits package, including private medical insurance, a generous performance-based bonus structure, and contributions to a retirement fund. Our client invests in their employees' professional growth through continuous training, conference attendance, and support for further education. The role is based at our office in Tembisa, Gauteng, with a requirement for regular site visits. Join a respected firm known for its technical excellence and commitment to delivering innovative geotechnical solutions.