Remote Lead Geotechnical Engineer - Site Investigation & Analysis

Placements24; George; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level compensation

Global health/dental/vision insurance

Retirement savings plan

Professional development & conferences

Remote-friendly with flexible location

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Geotechnical Engineer to lead global geotechnical investigations and analyses from a remote setting. You will guide teams, ensure quality, and develop robust solutions for infrastructure projects worldwide.

The role demands a PE license (or international chartership), 12+ years of experience, and strong expertise in soil/rock mechanics and numerical modeling. Remote work with international collaboration is offered.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering or closely related field.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license or equivalent international chartership is essential.
• Minimum of 12 years of progressive geotechnical experience including leadership of complex projects.
• Expertise in site investigation, soil and rock mechanics, and numerical modeling.
• Proficiency with PLAXIS, GeoStudio, FLAC and related software.

Responsibilities

• Lead geotechnical site investigations, planning, execution and interpretation of data.
• Perform advanced geotechnical analyses (slope stability, foundation design, seismic hazards).
• Prepare design reports with expert recommendations for diverse projects.
• Oversee technical specifications and drawings for geotechnical works.
• Mentor and guide a remote global team of engineers and geologists.
• Collaborate with project managers, clients and other disciplines virtually.

Skills

Geotechnical leadership

Site investigation techniques

Soil mechanics

Rock mechanics

Numerical modeling

Technical writing

Communication

Remote team management

Education

Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering

PhD in Geotechnical Engineering

Tools

PLAXIS 2D/3D

GeoStudio

FLAC

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in geotechnical consulting, is actively seeking an exceptional Lead Geotechnical Engineer to join their fully remote team. This is a remote-first opportunity for a seasoned professional to direct and oversee critical site investigation and analysis projects from anywhere. You will be responsible for guiding project teams in assessing ground conditions, performing complex analyses, and developing robust geotechnical solutions for major infrastructure and building developments worldwide. The role demands strong technical leadership, exceptional analytical skills, and the ability to foster collaboration within a distributed team environment. You will play a key role in shaping the technical direction of projects, ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety are met, and mentoring junior engineers. If you are passionate about solving complex geotechnical challenges and thrive in a flexible, remote-work setting, this position offers a unique platform for impact and professional fulfillment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage geotechnical site investigations, including planning, execution, and interpretation of field and laboratory data.
• Perform advanced geotechnical analyses, such as slope stability, foundation design, seismic hazard assessment, and ground improvement techniques.
• Develop comprehensive geotechnical design reports and provide expert recommendations for diverse project types.
• Oversee the preparation of detailed technical specifications and drawings for geotechnical works.
• Provide senior technical guidance and mentorship to a global team of geotechnical engineers and geologists.
• Collaborate effectively with project managers, clients, and other engineering disciplines through virtual platforms.
• Ensure compliance with international geotechnical standards, codes, and best practices.
• Contribute to business development activities, including proposal writing and client engagement.
• Conduct peer reviews and quality assurance checks on geotechnical deliverables.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering or a closely related field.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license or equivalent international chartership is essential.
• A minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in geotechnical engineering, with a significant portion dedicated to leading complex projects.
• Demonstrated expertise in site investigation techniques, soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and numerical modeling.
• Proficiency with advanced geotechnical software (e.g., PLAXIS 2D/3D, GeoStudio suite, FLAC).
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with experience mentoring diverse, remote teams.
• Excellent report writing, presentation, and communication skills suitable for a global audience.
• Proven ability to manage multiple high-priority projects concurrently in a remote setting.
• Self‑motivated, highly organized, and capable of working autonomously.
• Reliable high-speed internet access and a suitable home office environment.

Benefits

• Highly competitive executive-level salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive global health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Generous retirement savings contributions and investment options.
• Significant opportunities for professional development, attending international conferences, and continuous learning.
• Flexibility to work from any location with reliable internet access.
• Exposure to challenging and career-defining international projects.