Senior Geotechnical Engineer - Mining Applications

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Extensive travel to mine sites

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Geotechnical Engineer for a leading mining-focused consultancy in Bloemfontein, Free State. You will lead geotechnical investigations, slope stability analyses, and design ground support for open pits, underground mines, and tailings facilities.

The role requires a Master’s in Geotechnical/Mining Engineering, Pr. Eng. with ECSA, and at least 9 years of mining geotechnical experience. You will mentor juniors and liaise with mine teams on site.

Qualifications

• Master's degree with strong geotechnical focus; Pr. Eng. registration with ECSA essential.
• Minimum 9 years in geotechnical engineering with mining exposure.
• Experience in rock/soil mechanics, slope stability and numerical modeling.

Responsibilities

• Lead geotechnical investigations and analyses for mining operations.
• Conduct stability assessments for slopes, walls, excavations and tailings facilities.
• Perform rock and soil mechanics analyses using modeling software.
• Develop ground support designs and remediation recommendations.
• Prepare geotechnical reports and present findings to clients.
• Mentor junior engineers and manage project budgets/timelines.

Skills

Geotechnical leadership

Mining geotechnics

Numerical modeling

Rock mechanics

Soil mechanics

Project management

Technical reporting

Education

Master's in Geotechnical Engineering or Mining Engineering

Tools

FLAC

UDEC

PLAXIS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading consulting firm specializing in mining engineering, is seeking a Senior Geotechnical Engineer to join their established team in Bloemfontein, Free State . This role focuses on providing expert geotechnical services to the mining sector, including stability assessments for open-pit mines, underground excavations, tailings storage facilities, and associated infrastructure. You will be responsible for leading complex geotechnical investigations, analyses, and design projects, ensuring the safety and operational efficiency of mining sites. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in mining geotechnics, a strong understanding of rock and soil mechanics, and proven leadership abilities. This is a key position within a growing company, offering significant career development and the chance to work on high-profile mining projects in the region and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage geotechnical investigations and analyses for mining operations, including open pits and underground mines.
• Conduct detailed stability assessments for mine slopes, high walls, excavations, and tailings storage facilities.
• Perform rock mechanics and soil mechanics analyses using advanced numerical modeling software.
• Develop geotechnical designs and provide recommendations for ground support, dewatering, and site remediation.
• Ensure compliance with mining safety regulations and geotechnical best practices.
• Prepare comprehensive geotechnical reports, interpret site investigation data, and present findings to clients and stakeholders.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively.
• Liaise with mine management, engineers, and other specialists to integrate geotechnical solutions into mine planning and operations.
• Mentor junior geotechnical engineers and contribute to the technical development of the team.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in mining geotechnics and related technologies.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering or Mining Engineering with a strong geotechnical focus.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is essential.
• A minimum of 9 years of relevant experience in geotechnical engineering, with a significant portion focused on the mining industry.
• Proven expertise in rock mechanics, soil mechanics, slope stability analysis, and numerical modeling (e.g., FLAC, UDEC, PLAXIS).
• Experience with open-pit and underground mining geotechnical challenges.
• Knowledge of tailings storage facility design and management.
• Excellent report writing, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong leadership and team management capabilities.
• Ability to work effectively on remote mine sites and collaborate with operational teams.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, comprehensive medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and opportunities for extensive travel to mine sites.
• Professional development and training are actively supported, allowing you to expand your expertise in mining geotechnics.
• Join a respected firm committed to safety and technical excellence in Bloemfontein, Free State .