Principal Geotechnical Engineer - Infrastructure Projects

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is assisting a renowned engineering consultancy in recruiting a Principal Geotechnical Engineer to lead investigations and designs for roads, bridges, dams, and buildings from Bloemfontein.

The role requires MSc/PhD, Pr.Eng., 10+ years, and strong PM, mentoring, and client-management skills. Hybrid work, travel willingness, and a focus on safety and cost-effectiveness are central.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering or related Civil Engineering.
• At least 10 years' progressive geotechnical experience with infrastructure focus.
• Professional registration as Pr.Eng. with ECSA is required.
• Proven leadership of complex geotechnical investigations and designs.
• Experience with PLAXIS, GEOSTUDIO or similar tools.
• Strong soil and rock mechanics and foundation engineering knowledge.
• Excellent project management, leadership, and communication skills.
• Hybrid work model; base in Bloemfontein; willing to travel.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage geotechnical investigations, site reconnaissance, drilling, and in-situ testing.
• Perform detailed geotechnical analysis: slope stability, foundations, seismic, settlements.
• Develop geotechnical design reports, specs, and drawings for infra projects.
• Oversee construction phase and provide geotech advice on-site.
• Mentor and supervise junior geotechnical engineers and technicians.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and client relationships.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (structural, civil, environmental).
• Ensure compliance with geotechnical codes and standards.
• Support business development with proposals and client presentations.
• Stay updated on advancements in geotechnical practices.

Skills

Geotechnical expertise

Leadership

Project management

Team mentoring

Communication

Education

MSc/PhD Geotechnical Engineering

Pr.Eng. with ECSA

Tools

PLAXIS

GEOSTUDIO

Finite Element Analysis

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned engineering consultancy firm, is seeking a highly experienced Principal Geotechnical Engineer to join their expanding team in Bloemfontein, Free State. This senior role will involve leading complex geotechnical investigations and designs for a wide range of infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, dams, and buildings. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing projects, mentoring junior engineers, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality, safe, and cost-effective geotechnical solutions. This is an excellent opportunity to shape critical infrastructure in the Free State province and contribute to a company known for its technical excellence and commitment to professional development. Our client values innovation and collaborative problem-solving.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage geotechnical investigations, including site reconnaissance, drilling, and in-situ testing.
• Perform detailed geotechnical analysis, including slope stability, foundation design, seismic analysis, and settlement calculations.
• Develop geotechnical design reports, specifications, and drawings for various infrastructure projects.
• Oversee the construction phase of projects, providing geotechnical advice and resolving site issues.
• Mentor and supervise junior geotechnical engineers and technicians.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and client relationships.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary design teams (structural, civil, environmental).
• Ensure compliance with relevant geotechnical codes, standards, and regulations.
• Contribute to business development activities, including proposal preparation and client presentations.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in geotechnical engineering practices and technologies.

Requirements

• MSc or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering or a related Civil Engineering discipline.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in geotechnical engineering, with a significant focus on infrastructure projects.
• Professional registration as a Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng.) with ECSA is required.
• Proven experience in leading complex geotechnical investigations and designs.
• Expertise in geotechnical software such as PLAXIS, GEOSTUDIO, or similar finite element analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and foundation engineering principles.
• Excellent project management, leadership, and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet challenging deadlines.
• Willingness to adopt a hybrid work model, with primary base in Bloemfontein, Free State.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to project sites.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, performance-based bonuses, comprehensive medical aid, and a retirement fund. Opportunities for professional growth, continuous learning, and career advancement are readily available. Join a leading engineering firm in Bloemfontein, Free State, and play a vital role in developing the region's essential infrastructure while benefiting from a supportive and innovative work culture.