Remote Principal Geotechnical Engineer – Mining Leader

Placements24; Gauteng; Remote; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking aSenior Geotechnical Engineer for a remote-first role supporting global mining projects. You will assess risks, model soil and rock mechanics, and provide technical guidance from a home office.

You will work with a distributed team across time zones, preparing reports and recommendations to enhance safety and efficiency of mines, slopes, and excavations.

Qualifications

• Minimum 7–10 years of geotechnical experience in mining.
• Expertise in numerical modeling of soil and rock mechanics.
• Proficiency with RocScience/GeoStudio or similar software.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently in a remote, distributed team.
• Experience collaborating across time zones.

Responsibilities

• Conduct geotechnical investigations and site assessments for mining projects.
• Develop geotechnical monitoring programs and analyze data.
• Perform slope stability analyses for open pits and underground excavations.
• Provide expert geotechnical recommendations to project teams.
• Utilize geotechnical software for modeling and simulation.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations.
• Collaborate with geologists, mining engineers, and other specialists remotely.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.
• Mentor junior engineers and guide technical work.
• Contribute to risk management strategies.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Decision-making

Written & verbal comms

Independent work

Remote collaboration

Education

Geotechnical/Civil Eng degree

Tools

RocScience

GeoStudio

Job description

Senior Geotechnical Engineer - Remote Operations

About the Role Our client, a leading player in the global mining industry, is seeking a highly experienced and motivated Senior Geotechnical Engineer to join their dynamic team. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to critical projects from the comfort of your home office. We are committed to fostering a remote-first culture, ensuring seamless collaboration and productivity regardless of geographical location. You will play a pivotal role in assessing, analyzing, and mitigating geotechnical risks associated with various mining operations, contributing directly to the safety and efficiency of our sites. This position demands a deep understanding of geological principles and their application in complex mining environments. The successful candidate will leverage advanced geotechnical modeling software and data analysis techniques to provide expert advice and solutions. Your expertise will be crucial in ensuring the structural integrity of mines, slopes, and underground excavations, thereby safeguarding personnel and assets. We are looking for an individual with a proven track record of success in the mining sector, capable of working independently and as part of a distributed global team. This role offers the flexibility of remote work combined with the challenge of impactful, high-stakes engineering projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive geotechnical investigations and site assessments for new and existing mining projects.
• Develop and implement detailed geotechnical monitoring programs, analyzing data to identify potential hazards and risks.
• Perform stability analyses for open-pit slopes, underground excavations, and tailings storage facilities.
• Provide expert geotechnical advice and recommendations to project teams, mine planners, and management.
• Utilize advanced geotechnical software (e.g., Rocscience suite, GeoStudio) for numerical modeling and simulation.
• Prepare clear and concise technical reports, presentations, and documentation for internal and external stakeholders.
• Collaborate effectively with geologists, mining engineers, and other discipline specialists in a remote setting.
• Ensure compliance with relevant industry standards, regulations, and best practices for geotechnical engineering in Johannesburg, Gauteng, ZA.
• Contribute to the development of risk management strategies related to geotechnical aspects of mining.
• Mentor junior geotechnical engineers and provide technical guidance.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering with a specialization in Geotechnical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in geotechnical engineering, with a significant focus on the mining industry.
• Proven experience in numerical modeling of soil and rock mechanics, slope stability analysis, and ground support design.
• Proficiency in industry-standard geotechnical software.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information clearly.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and manage multiple projects effectively in a remote work environment.
• Experience working with diverse teams and stakeholders across different time zones.
• Familiarity with geological and