Principal Geotechnical Engineer - Underground Stability

Placements24; Soweto; Hybrid; ZAR 2,200,000 - 3,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level compensation

Comprehensive medical and life ins.

Retirement benefits

Relocation assistance may be provided

Job summary

Placements24 invites applications for a Principal Geotechnical Engineer to provide expert technical leadership for underground operations in Soweto, Gauteng. The role focuses on cutting-edge geotechnical analysis, design support, and mentorship of junior engineers.

You will shape rock mechanics and ground support practices, collaborate with planning, operations and R&D teams, and help mitigate risks in challenging mining environments.

Qualifications

• Minimum 12 years of specialized experience in geotechnical engineering within the mining industry, with a focus on underground operations.
• Expertise in advanced numerical modeling software (FLAC3D, UDEC, PFC2D/3D, Phase3D).
• Deep understanding of rock mechanics principles, seismic hazard assessment, and ground support design.
• Proven experience in managing complex geotechnical projects from inception to completion.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills at a senior level.

Responsibilities

• Provide advanced geotechnical consultancy for complex underground mining projects.
• Lead the design and optimization of ground support systems for high-stress and seismic environments.
• Develop and oversee geotechnical monitoring programs with instrumentation and data interpretation.
• Conduct advanced numerical modeling and analysis of underground excavations and rock mass behavior.
• Review and approve geotechnical designs and reports prepared by other engineers.
• Mentor and guide junior geotechnical engineers and technical staff.
• Contribute to the development of corporate geotechnical standards, guidelines, and best practices.
• Liaise with site personnel, management, and external consultants on geotechnical issues.
• Stay abreast of new developments and technologies in geotechnical engineering for mining.
• Lead investigations into significant geotechnical failures or incidents with detailed analysis and recommendations.

Skills

Geotechnical engineering

Leadership

Numerical modeling

Rock mechanics

Project management

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering

Tools

FLAC3D

UDEC

PFC2D/3D

Phase3D

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in the Mining sector, is seeking an exceptional Principal Geotechnical Engineer to provide expert technical leadership for their underground operations in the Soweto, Gauteng area. This senior role will be instrumental in ensuring the stability and safety of complex underground excavations by providing cutting edge geotechnical analysis, design, and consultancy. The successful candidate will lead challenging projects, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to the development of best practices in rock mechanics and ground support for deep-level and complex mining environments. You will be the go-to expert for geotechnical challenges, working closely with mine planning, operations, and R&D teams to mitigate risks and optimize mining methods. We are looking for a highly experienced professional with a deep theoretical understanding and extensive practical application of geotechnical principles in the demanding context of Gauteng mining. Your expertise will be critical in safeguarding personnel and assets in challenging geological conditions.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide advanced geotechnical expertise and consultancy for complex underground mining projects.
• Lead the design and optimization of ground support systems for various mining conditions, including high stress and seismic environments.
• Develop and oversee comprehensive geotechnical monitoring programs, including instrumentation and data interpretation.
• Conduct advanced numerical modeling and analysis of underground excavations and rock mass behavior.
• Review and approve geotechnical designs and reports prepared by other engineers.
• Mentor and guide junior geotechnical engineers and technical staff.
• Contribute to the development of corporate geotechnical standards, guidelines, and best practices.
• Liaise with site personnel, management, and external consultants on geotechnical issues.
• Stay abreast of and research new developments and technologies in geotechnical engineering for mining.
• Lead investigations into significant geotechnical failures or incidents, providing detailed analysis and recommendations.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Geotechnical Engineering, Rock Mechanics, Mining Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 12 years of specialized experience in geotechnical engineering within the Mining industry, with a focus on underground operations.
• Demonstrated expertise in advanced numerical modeling software (e.g., FLAC3D, UDEC, PFC2D/3D, Phase3D).
• Deep understanding of rock mechanics principles, seismic hazard assessment, and ground support design.
• Proven experience in managing complex geotechnical projects from inception to completion.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills at a senior level.
• Exceptional leadership, mentoring, and communication abilities.
• Ability to influence and collaborate effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders.
• Familiarity with South African mining regulations and practices.
• Willingness to travel to operational sites as required in the Gauteng region.

Benefits

• Executive-level compensation package, including substantial bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical, life insurance, and top-tier retirement benefits.
• Unparalleled opportunities for professional leadership and influence in the field.
• Generous paid time off and vacation benefits.
• Opportunity to shape the geotechnical strategy for major underground mining operations near Soweto.
• Work on highly challenging and impactful projects in the global Mining sector.
• A stimulating and intellectually rewarding work environment.
• Relocation assistance and expatriate benefits may be considered.