Principal Geotechnical Engineer

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Life insurance

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 in Rustenburg, North West, seeks a Principal Geotechnical Engineer to lead advanced geotechnical investigations and design ground support for open pits and underground operations.

The candidate will direct numerical modeling, monitoring programs, and senior-level consultancy, mentoring junior engineers and influencing mine planning with strong safety leadership.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering, Mining Engineering or related field.
• 12+ years of progressively responsible geotechnical experience with mining focus.
• Expertise in rock mechanics, ground control and numerical modeling.
• Experience leading large geotechnical projects and senior-level consultancy.
• Professional Engineering registration (e.g., Pr. Eng.) essential.
• Familiarity with Rustenburg/North West mining conditions preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage complex geotechnical investigations for mine development and operations.
• Develop advanced ground support designs and rehabilitation strategies.
• Interpret geological and geotechnical data, including seismic monitoring.
• Conduct numerical modeling (e.g., finite element analysis) for stability assessments.
• Develop and oversee geotechnical monitoring programs; advise on slope stability.

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Geotechnical Eng

Project management

Problem solving

Senior stakeholder management

Education

Master's/PhD in Geotech or Mining Eng

Tools

PLAXIS

ABAQUS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leader in the Mining industry, is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Principal Geotechnical Engineer to join their prestigious team in Rustenburg, North West . This senior role demands extensive expertise in rock mechanics, ground control, and slope stability for both underground and open-pit operations. The Principal Geotechnical Engineer will be responsible for leading complex geotechnical investigations, developing advanced ground support designs, and providing expert advice to guide mine planning and operations. You will play a critical role in ensuring the safety and stability of mine structures and excavations. The ideal candidate will possess a proven track record of innovation and problem-solving in challenging geotechnical environments. We are committed to maintaining the highest safety standards and require a candidate who can champion these principles. This is an exceptional opportunity to influence geotechnical strategy and contribute to significant projects within a forward-thinking mining organization in the dynamic North West region. Your leadership will shape the geotechnical engineering practices and contribute to the long-term sustainability and success of our mining ventures.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage complex geotechnical investigations and analyses for mine development and operations.
• Develop and implement advanced ground support designs and rehabilitation strategies.
• Provide expert interpretation of geological and geotechnical data, including seismic monitoring.
• Conduct detailed numerical modeling (e.g., finite element analysis) for stability assessments.
• Develop and oversee geotechnical monitoring programs.
• Provide authoritative advice on slope stability for open pits and stability of underground excavations.
• Mentor and guide junior and intermediate geotechnical engineers.
• Contribute to mine design reviews, risk assessments, and emergency response planning.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in geotechnical engineering and apply them to mining challenges.
• Ensure compliance with industry best practices and regulatory standards for geotechnical engineering.

Requirements

• A Master's or PhD degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Mining Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 12 years of progressively responsible experience in geotechnical engineering, with a significant focus on mining applications.
• Demonstrated expertise in rock mechanics, ground control, and numerical modeling techniques.
• Proven experience in managing large-scale geotechnical projects and providing senior-level consultancy.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
• Strong leadership, mentoring, and interpersonal skills.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication abilities, with experience presenting to senior management and technical audiences.
• Familiarity with the geological and mining conditions in the Rustenburg, North West region is a significant advantage.
• Professional Engineering registration (e.g., Pr. Eng.) is essential.

Benefits

• A highly competitive salary package commensurate with a principal-level role.
• Comprehensive benefits including medical aid, retirement fund, and life insurance.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth, leadership development, and challenging projects.
• Relocation assistance to the North West region.
• Opportunity to influence geotechnical strategy at a corporate level.
• A stimulating and collaborative work environment.