Senior Geotechnical Engineer - Coastal & Infrastructure Projects

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical benefits

Retirement benefits

Career development

Coastal lifestyle

Job summary

Placements24 is partnering with a prominent engineering consultancy in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, to recruit a Senior Geotechnical Engineer. You will lead geotechnical investigations, design foundations for buildings, bridges and industrial facilities, and interpret subsurface data under challenging regional conditions.

The role emphasizes mentoring junior engineers, rigorous reporting, and adherence to South African geotechnical standards, with opportunities to contribute to coastal and

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering or related discipline.
• Pr.Eng. registration with ECSA preferred.
• Minimum 7 years of experience in geotechnical engineering; coastal/industrial project experience advantageous.
• Proficiency in geotechnical software Plaxis, GeoStudio, WALLAP.
• Strong knowledge of SA geotechnical standards and regulations.
• Excellent report writing, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to travel within the Eastern Cape.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage geotechnical site investigations, including planning, supervision of drilling, sampling, and in-situ testing.
• Interpret subsurface investigation data and conduct detailed soil mechanics analyses.
• Design foundations for buildings, bridges and industrial plants considering local geotechnical conditions in Port Elizabeth.
• Prepare comprehensive geotechnical investigation reports and design recommendations.
• Develop specifications for earthworks, slope stability, and ground improvement measures.
• Provide technical oversight and quality control for field and laboratory testing programs.
• Liaise with clients, project managers, and construction teams to ensure effective implementation of geotechnical designs.
• Mentor and guide junior geotechnical engineers and technicians.
• Ensure compliance with South African geotechnical codes, standards, and best practices.

Skills

Site investigation leadership

Soil mechanics

Technical reporting

Mentoring junior staff

Education

Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering

Tools

Plaxis

GeoStudio

WALLAP

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent engineering consultancy, is seeking an experienced Senior Geotechnical Engineer to join their team in **Port Elizabeth**, **Eastern Cape**. This role is crucial for delivering high-quality geotechnical solutions for a range of projects, including coastal developments, industrial facilities, and major infrastructure undertakings. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of soil mechanics, foundation design, and site investigation techniques, with a particular emphasis on challenging ground conditions typical of the region. You will be responsible for leading geotechnical investigations, providing expert design recommendations, and ensuring the safety and stability of structures. This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned professional to contribute to significant projects impacting **Port Elizabeth**'s development and play a key role in mentoring junior staff. Our client is committed to technical excellence, sustainability, and fostering a collaborative work environment. Join a team that values innovation and delivers robust engineering solutions. You will have the chance to work on diverse and challenging projects that are vital to the growth of the **Eastern Cape**.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage geotechnical site investigations, including planning, supervision of drilling, sampling, and in-situ testing.
• Interpret subsurface investigation data and conduct detailed soil mechanics analyses.
• Design foundations for various structures (buildings, bridges, industrial plants) considering local geotechnical conditions in **Port Elizabeth**.
• Prepare comprehensive geotechnical investigation reports and design recommendations.
• Develop specifications for earthworks, slope stability, and ground improvement measures.
• Provide technical oversight and quality control for field and laboratory testing programs.
• Liaise with clients, project managers, and construction teams to ensure effective implementation of geotechnical designs.
• Mentor and guide junior geotechnical engineers and technicians.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant South African geotechnical codes, standards, and best practices.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in geotechnical engineering, with specific experience in coastal and industrial projects being advantageous.
• Proven expertise in foundation design, slope stability analysis, and ground improvement techniques.
• Proficiency in geotechnical software (e.g., Plaxis, GeoStudio, WALLAP) is required.
• Strong understanding of South African geotechnical standards and regulations.
• Excellent report writing, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Willingness to travel to project sites as required within the **Eastern Cape**.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, and opportunities for professional growth and development. You will work on diverse and challenging projects that contribute to the infrastructure development of **Port Elizabeth**. A supportive and collaborative work environment is provided, with a strong emphasis on work-life balance. Opportunities for career advancement within the company are available. Access to advanced geotechnical software and resources is ensured. **Port Elizabeth** offers a desirable coastal lifestyle, complementing a rewarding career.