Senior Geotechnical Engineer - Mine Stability

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Geotechnical Engineer in Polokwane, Limpopo to lead geotechnical analysis for both underground and open-pit mining. The role requires designing ground support, monitoring programs, and providing critical input for mine planning and operations.

The ideal candidate will have a geotechnical focus degree, 8+ years in mining geotech, and proficiency with Rocscience tools and geological modelling.

Qualifications

• Bachelor or Master degree in Geotechnical/Civil (Geotechnical) or Mining Engineering.
• 8+ years of geotechnical experience in mining.
• Underground/open-pit geotechnical analysis and design experience.

Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed geotechnical investigations for underground and open-pit projects.
• Design and implement ground support and stabilization systems.
• Develop geotechnical monitoring programs including instrumentation and data analysis.
• Analyze rock mass properties and stress conditions to predict failures.
• Provide geotechnical input for mine planning, design, and operations.

Skills

Rocscience software

Ground analysis

Rock mechanics

Instrumentation

Communication

Education

Bachelor/Master in Geotechnical/Civil (Geotechnical)

Tools

Phase2

Slide

Examine3D

FLAC

Geological modelling

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a key player in the South African mining sector, is seeking a highly qualified Senior Geotechnical Engineer to join their technical services team in Polokwane, Limpopo . This vital role focuses on ensuring the stability and safety of underground and open-pit mining operations through expert geotechnical analysis and design. The successful candidate will be responsible for assessing ground conditions, designing support systems, and providing critical advice to mining operations to mitigate geotechnical risks. This position offers a chance to contribute significantly to safe and sustainable mining practices in a region rich with mineral potential.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed geotechnical investigations and assessments for both underground and open-pit mining projects.
• Design and implement appropriate ground support systems and stabilization measures for mine excavations.
• Develop and manage geotechnical monitoring programs, including instrumentation installation and data analysis.
• Analyze rock mass properties and stress conditions to predict and mitigate potential failures.
• Provide expert geotechnical input for mine planning, design, and operational decision-making.
• Collaborate closely with mine planning engineers, geologists, and operations personnel to ensure the safe implementation of geotechnical recommendations.
• Prepare comprehensive geotechnical reports, hazard assessments, and design documentation.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations related to geotechnical engineering.
• Stay abreast of advancements in geotechnical engineering principles and technologies relevant to mining.
• Mentor junior geotechnical engineers and technicians.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering (with a geotechnical focus), or Mining Engineering.
• A minimum of 8 years of experience in geotechnical engineering, with a substantial portion dedicated to the mining industry.
• Proven experience in underground and open-pit geotechnical analysis and design.
• Proficiency with geotechnical software (e.g., Rocscience suite - Phase2, Slide, Examine3D; FLAC) and geological modeling tools.
• Strong understanding of rock mechanics, hydrogeology, and engineering geology principles.
• Experience with ground monitoring techniques and instrumentation.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and risk assessment skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical information clearly.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Registered Professional Engineer (Pr Eng) or eligible for registration with ECSA.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, performance-based incentives, comprehensive medical aid, and retirement fund contributions.
• Opportunities for professional development, including advanced training and conference attendance, are provided.
• The role is based in Polokwane, Limpopo , a major economic center in the northern part of the country.