Senior Geotechnical Engineer - Foundation Design

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private medical aid

Retirement fund

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 invites an experienced Senior Geotechnical Engineer to join their Port Elizabeth-based practice. You will lead site investigations, analyze soil and rock mechanics, and design foundations for a range of projects from commercial buildings to infrastructure.

The role blends fieldwork with advanced office analysis and client interaction. Ideal candidates hold a BEng/BSc in Civil Engineering with a geotechnical focus, 8+ years of relevant experience, and professional registration with

Qualifications

• BEng or BSc in Civil Engineering with geotechnical focus required.
• Professional registration with ECSA (Pr.Eng. or Pr.Tech.Eng.) preferred.
• 8+ years of geotechnical investigation and design experience.

Responsibilities

• Plan, supervise geotechnical site investigations including sampling and drilling.
• Analyze soil/rock data and design shallow and deep foundations.
• Perform slope stability analyses and landslide remediation design.
• Assess seismic hazards and advise on earthquake-resistant designs.
• Mentor junior engineers and support business development efforts.

Skills

Communication

Analytical thinking

Team leadership

Education

BEng or BSc in Civil Engineering with Geotechnical specialization

Tools

PLAXIS

GEO5

SLOPE/W

SEEP/W

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading geotechnical engineering consultancy, is seeking an experienced Senior Geotechnical Engineer to join their established practice in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape . This role is central to providing expert geotechnical advice and design solutions for a diverse range of construction projects, including commercial buildings, industrial facilities, and infrastructure developments. You will be responsible for planning and supervising site investigations, analysing soil and rock mechanics, designing foundations, and mitigating geotechnical risks. This hybrid position allows for a balance between critical fieldwork and sophisticated office-based analysis and client interaction.

Key Responsibilities

Plan, execute, and supervise geotechnical site investigations, including drilling, sampling, and in-situ testing. Conduct detailed analysis of soil and rock mechanics data using advanced geotechnical software. Design various types of foundations, including shallow and deep foundations (piles, rafts), for diverse structures. Perform slope stability analyses and design remedial measures for landslides and excavations. Assess seismic hazards and provide recommendations for earthquake-resistant design. Prepare comprehensive geotechnical investigation reports, design reports, and technical recommendations. Liaise effectively with clients, project managers, structural engineers, and contractors to provide geotechnical input. Review and approve geotechnical designs prepared by junior engineers. Ensure compliance with relevant geotechnical standards, codes of practice (e.g., SANS 10160, SANS 10400), and client specifications. Provide on-site supervision and technical support during critical construction phases involving geotechnical works. Mentor and develop junior geotechnical engineers and technicians. Contribute to business development and tendering efforts for new projects.

Requirements

BEng or BSc in Civil Engineering with a specialization in Geotechnical Engineering. Professional registration with ECSA as a Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng.) or Professional Engineering Technologist (Pr.Tech.Eng.). A minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in geotechnical investigation, analysis, and design. Proficiency in geotechnical software such as PLAXIS, GEO5, SLOPE/W, SEEP/W, or equivalent. Strong understanding of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and foundation engineering principles. Experience with site investigation techniques and interpretation of ground investigation data. Excellent report writing and communication skills. Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines. Experience in client liaison and project management is advantageous. Willingness to undertake site visits across the region as required.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package including private medical aid and a retirement fund. This role presents an exciting opportunity to work on significant projects within the Eastern Cape and contribute to impactful infrastructure and building developments. Our client prioritizes professional growth, offering opportunities for advanced training and development. The hybrid work model ensures a sustainable work-life balance for its employees.