Senior Geotechnical Engineer - Construction Projects

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 1,400,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Professional development opportunities

Competitive salary

Job summary

Placements24 in Mossel Bay, Western Cape, seeks a Senior Geotechnical Engineer to lead site investigations, analyze soil and rock data, and design foundations and earthworks for diverse projects. The role emphasizes safety, quality, and adherence to SA standards.

You will mentor junior staff, coordinate with clients and regulators, and manage multiple projects concurrently. A BEng/BSc in Civil Engineering (Geotechnical) with Pr. Eng registration and 8+ years' experience are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Civil Engineering with geotechnical specialization.
• Pr. Eng registration with ECSA is mandatory.
• Minimum 8 years of hands-on geotechnical investigation and design experience.
• Experience in foundation design for buildings and infrastructure.
• Proficiency in geotechnical software PLAXIS, SLOPE/W, SEEP/W.
• Strong knowledge of soil and rock mechanics and site characterization.
• Excellent analytical, reporting and communication skills.
• Based in Mossel Bay or willing to relocate; valid driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Plan and supervise geotechnical investigations (drilling, sampling, in-situ tests).
• Analyze soil/rock data to determine ground properties.
• Design foundations (shallow/deep), retaining structures and earthworks.
• Prepare geotechnical investigation reports, designs and specs.
• Provide technical support to project teams, clients and contractors.
• Oversee geotechnical works during construction (piling, excavation support).
• Conduct risk assessments for slope stability and settlements.
• Ensure designs comply with SA standards and building codes.
• Mentor junior engineers and liaise with regulators.

Skills

Geotechnical analysis

Project management

Report writing

Strong communication

Interpersonal skills

Multi-project management

Site supervision

Regulatory liaison

Education

BEng/BSc in Civil Engineering (Geotechnical)

Geotechnical specialization

Tools

PLAXIS

SLOPE/W

SEEP/W

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly respected civil engineering firm specializing in complex foundations and geotechnical solutions, is seeking an experienced Senior Geotechnical Engineer to join their team in Mossel Bay, Western Cape . This critical role involves the investigation, analysis, and design of ground conditions for a variety of construction projects, including residential, commercial, and industrial developments. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and foundation engineering, along with strong site investigation and project management capabilities. This position offers the chance to work on challenging projects in a scenic coastal region, contributing significantly to the structural integrity and safety of new constructions. We are committed to excellence in engineering and fostering the growth of our professionals in Mossel Bay .

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and supervise geotechnical site investigations, including drilling, sampling, and in-situ testing.
• Analyze soil and rock mechanics data to determine engineering properties of ground conditions.
• Design foundations (shallow and deep), retaining structures, and earthworks for various construction projects.
• Prepare detailed geotechnical investigation reports, design recommendations, and specifications.
• Provide expert advice and technical support to project teams, clients, and contractors.
• Oversee construction-phase geotechnical works, including piling, excavation support, and ground improvement.
• Conduct risk assessments related to geotechnical hazards such as slope stability and settlement.
• Ensure all designs and recommendations comply with relevant South African engineering standards and building codes.
• Mentor junior geotechnical engineers and technicians, fostering their technical development.
• Liaise with regulatory authorities and stakeholders to ensure smooth project progression in the Western Cape .

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Civil Engineering with a specialization in Geotechnical Engineering.
• Professional registration with ECSA as a Pr. Eng. is mandatory.
• A minimum of 8 years of hands-on experience in geotechnical investigation and design.
• Proven experience in the design of foundations for various structures, including buildings and infrastructure.
• Proficiency in geotechnical software such as PLAXIS, SLOPE/W, SEEP/W, or similar.
• Strong understanding of soil behavior, site characterization techniques, and construction methods.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and report-writing skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for effective client and team interaction.
• Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently and meet demanding deadlines.
• Must be based in or willing to relocate to the Mossel Bay area and possess a valid driver's license.

Benefits

Our client provides a highly competitive salary, performance incentives, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and a provident fund. Professional development opportunities, including further training and conference attendance, are actively supported. The role offers significant exposure to diverse and challenging projects within the dynamic construction landscape of the Western Cape . Join a reputable firm where your expertise in geotechnical engineering will be highly valued and contribute to significant developments.