Principal Mining Geotechnical Engineer

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Performance bonuses

Flexible work arrangements

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Mining Geotechnical Engineer to join a leading resource-sector team in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. The role requires guiding geotechnical assessment, slope stability, and ground support for both underground and open-pit operations, ensuring safe mine design and optimal performance.

You will apply rock and soil mechanics, run numerical models with FLAC and Rocscience, mentor junior engineers, and collaborate with planning and operations to embed geotechnical

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Geotechnical Engineering, Mining Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum 12 years of experience in mining geotechnical engineering, with exposure to underground and open-pit environments.
• Extensive experience with numerical modeling software for geotechnical analysis.
• In-depth knowledge of rock mechanics, soil mechanics, and geological site characterization.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive geotechnical investigations and analyses for mine design, development, and operations.
• Develop and implement geotechnical monitoring programs for stability of excavations, slopes, and tailings facilities.
• Provide expert recommendations on ground support systems, slope reinforcement, and excavation sequencing.
• Utilize advanced geotechnical software for numerical modeling and analysis (e.g., FLAC, Rocscience Suite).
• Review and approve geotechnical designs and parameters proposed by consultants and internal teams.
• Ensure compliance with geotechnical standards, regulations, and best practices in the Eastern Cape region.
• Collaborate with mine planning, engineering, and operations to integrate geotechnical considerations across projects.
• Investigate geotechnical incidents and recommend corrective actions.
• Mentor and guide junior geotechnical engineers and contribute to department development.
• Stay current with advancements in geotechnical engineering and their mining applications.

Skills

Geotechnical engineering

Rock mechanics

Numerical modeling

Project leadership

Mentorship

Education

Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering

Ph.D. in Geotechnical/Mining Engineering

Tools

FLAC

Rocscience Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading entity in the resource sector, is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Mining Geotechnical Engineer to join their team based in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape . This senior role is responsible for providing expert geotechnical assessment and advice for both underground and open-pit mining operations. The Principal Geotechnical Engineer will play a critical role in ensuring the stability of excavations, slopes, and surface infrastructure, thereby mitigating risks and optimizing mine design and safety. The position requires a profound understanding of rock mechanics, soil mechanics, and the application of geotechnical principles to mining challenges. If you are an experienced geotechnical specialist looking for a challenging and impactful role in Port Elizabeth ,

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive geotechnical investigations and analyses for mine design, development, and operations.
• Develop and implement geotechnical monitoring programs to assess the stability of underground excavations, pit slopes, and tailings facilities.
• Provide expert recommendations on ground support systems, slope reinforcement, and excavation sequencing.
• Utilize advanced geotechnical software for numerical modeling and analysis (e.g., FLAC, Rocscience Suite).
• Review and approve geotechnical designs and parameters proposed by consultants and internal teams.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant geotechnical standards, regulations, and best practices in the Eastern Cape region.
• Collaborate closely with mine planning, engineering, and operations teams to integrate geotechnical considerations into all stages of mine development.
• Investigate and report on geotechnical incidents and recommend corrective actions.
• Mentor and guide junior geotechnical engineers and contribute to the technical development of the department.
• Stay current with advancements in geotechnical engineering and their application to mining.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or Ph.D. in Geotechnical Engineering, Mining Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 12 years of experience in mining geotechnical engineering, with significant exposure to both underground and open-pit environments.
• Extensive experience with numerical modeling software for geotechnical analysis.
• In-depth knowledge of rock mechanics, soil mechanics, and geological site characterization.
• Proven ability to develop and implement effective ground support and slope stability solutions.
• Strong understanding of South African mining regulations and geotechnical best practices.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and risk assessment skills.
• Superior written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare detailed technical reports.
• Demonstrated leadership potential and experience mentoring junior staff.
• Willingness to travel to operational sites and potentially reside near Port Elizabeth .

Benefits

• Our client provides a highly competitive salary, attractive performance bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and other welfare benefits.
• This role offers significant opportunities for professional growth, advanced training, and career progression within a leading mining organization.
• Employees work in a collaborative and innovative environment, contributing to the safety and success of major mining projects.
• The position offers the chance to work on diverse and challenging geotechnical problems.
• Opportunities for flexible work arrangements are available for this role in Eastern Cape .