Principal Geotechnical Engineer - Mine Stability

Placements24; Benoni; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Hybrid work model

Benoni-based role

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Benoni, Gauteng, seeks a Principal Geotechnical Engineer with 10+ years of mining geotechnical experience to lead investigations, ground control design, and risk assessment for underground and open-pit projects.

You will mentor junior engineers, oversee monitoring programs, and shape mine design and safety strategies, with a hybrid work model balancing site visits and office days in Benoni.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering, Mining Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 10 years of specialized geotechnical mining experience.
• Proven expertise in rock mechanics, slope stability, and underground excavation design.
• Experience with geotechnical modeling software (FLAC3D, Phase2, UnWedge).
• Strong written and verbal communication; leadership potential.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage geotechnical investigations for underground and open-pit mining projects.
• Develop ground control plans and support system parameters.
• Analyze geological data to assess rock mass behavior, slope stability, and seismic risk.
• Provide expert guidance on mine design and excavation sequencing.
• Oversee geotechnical instrumentation installation and monitoring.
• Mentor junior engineers and site personnel.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for management.

Skills

Rock mechanics

Slope stability analysis

Underground excavation design

Geotechnical modeling

Project leadership

Mentoring

Education

Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering

PhD in Mining/Geotechnical Engineering

Tools

FLAC3D

Phase2

UnWedge

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key player in the mining sector located in **Benoni, Gauteng**, is seeking a distinguished Principal Geotechnical Engineer. This senior role is critical for ensuring the stability and safety of underground and surface mining infrastructure. The Principal Geotechnical Engineer will lead advanced investigations, provide expert advice on ground control, and develop comprehensive geotechnical management strategies. This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced professional to influence mine design and safety standards within the dynamic mining landscape of Gauteng .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage comprehensive geotechnical investigations for underground and open-pit mining projects.
• Develop and implement ground control management plans, including design parameters for support systems.
• Analyze geological and geotechnical data to assess risks associated with rock mass behaviour, slope stability, and seismic activity.
• Provide expert technical guidance and recommendations on mine design, excavation sequencing, and support strategies.
• Oversee the installation and monitoring of geotechnical instrumentation (e.g., extensometers, piezometers, load cells).
• Conduct peer reviews of geotechnical designs and reports prepared by other engineers.
• Mentor and guide junior geotechnical engineers and site personnel.
• Develop and maintain relationships with research institutions and technology providers to stay at the forefront of geotechnical engineering.
• Ensure all geotechnical practices and recommendations comply with relevant industry standards and regulations in **Benoni**.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports, specifications, and presentations for management and project teams.
• Assist in the investigation of geotechnical incidents and the implementation of corrective actions.

Requirements

• A Master's or Ph.D. in Geotechnical Engineering, Mining Engineering, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 10 years of specialized experience in geotechnical engineering within the mining industry.
• Proven expertise in rock mechanics, slope stability analysis, and underground excavation design.
• Proficiency in geotechnical modeling software (e.g., FLAC3D, Phase2, UnWedge).
• Experience in designing and interpreting monitoring programs for mine structures.
• Strong understanding of geological data acquisition and interpretation relevant to geotechnical assessments.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making capabilities.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information clearly.
• Demonstrated leadership potential and experience in mentoring technical staff.
• Familiarity with South African mining regulations and ground control standards.
• Experience working with operations in the Gauteng region is preferred.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including advanced medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and potential for performance bonuses.
• This role presents significant opportunities for professional development and leadership in a challenging and rewarding environment.
• Our client supports a hybrid work model, balancing site visits with office-based work in **Benoni**.
• Join a team dedicated to the highest standards of mine safety and operational integrity.