Senior Geotechnical Engineer - Mining & Infrastructure Projects

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Provident fund

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga, seeks a seasoned Senior Geotechnical Engineer to lead investigations for mining infrastructure and large-scale projects. You will guide a team, shape designs, and ensure safety and compliance with South African standards.

The role emphasizes slope stability, foundation design, and ground improvement, with mentoring of junior engineers and collaboration with mine and project teams. A Master’s degree and extensive SA experience are required.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering or related field.
• Pr. Eng. registration with ECSA desirable.
• Minimum 7 years in geotechnical engineering; mining experience is a plus.
• Strong analytical and report-writing skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead geotechnical investigations for mining infrastructure and tailings dams.
• Perform slope stability, bearing capacity and seepage analyses.
• Design foundations, retaining walls and earthworks for projects.
• Develop ground improvement strategies and dewatering plans.
• Oversee field and lab testing programs and data interpretation.
• Prepare detailed geotechnical reports and specifications.
• Mentor junior engineers and geologists on the team.
• Ensure compliance with SA mining and civil engineering standards.

Skills

Geotechnical investigations

Slope stability analysis

Foundation design

Site investigations

Mentoring juniors

Education

Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering

Tools

Plaxis

GeoStudio

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading specialist engineering firm, is actively seeking a seasoned Senior Geotechnical Engineer to join their team in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. This role is crucial for supporting significant mining operations and large-scale infrastructure development projects within the region. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in geotechnical investigations, slope stability analysis, and foundation design, particularly in challenging geological environments. You will be responsible for providing expert technical advice, leading site investigations, and ensuring the safety and integrity of complex engineering structures. This is an exceptional opportunity for a dedicated professional to contribute to high-impact projects and mentor junior engineers in Nelspruit. Our client is committed to delivering innovative and sustainable engineering solutions and fosters a culture of technical excellence and collaboration. Join a respected firm renowned for its expertise in the mining and infrastructure sectors. Your role will be vital in shaping the safe and efficient development of projects across Mpumalanga. You will be part of a team that values continuous learning and professional growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage comprehensive geotechnical investigations for mining infrastructure, tailings dams, and civil structures.
• Conduct detailed analyses of soil and rock mechanics, including slope stability, seepage, and bearing capacity assessments.
• Design foundations, retaining walls, and earthworks for various projects in Nelspruit.
• Develop and implement ground improvement strategies and dewatering plans.
• Oversee field testing, laboratory testing programs, and data interpretation.
• Prepare detailed geotechnical reports, design recommendations, and specifications.
• Collaborate with mine engineers, project managers, and construction teams to ensure effective design implementation.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior geotechnical engineers and geologists.
• Ensure all geotechnical designs comply with relevant South African mining and civil engineering standards and regulations.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Mining Engineering, or a closely related field.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng.) registration with ECSA is highly desirable.
• A minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in geotechnical engineering, with specific experience in mining-related projects being a strong advantage.
• Proven expertise in slope stability analysis, foundation design, and ground characterization using software like Plaxis, GeoStudio, or similar.
• Experience with seismic analysis and design considerations for mining environments is a plus.
• Strong understanding of South African geotechnical and mining regulations.
• Excellent report writing, communication, and presentation skills.
• Ability to work effectively in demanding site conditions and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Willingness to travel to project sites within Mpumalanga.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive salary, performance bonuses, comprehensive medical aid, and a provident fund.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development, including specialized training and conference attendance, are readily available.
• You will have the unique opportunity to work on challenging and impactful projects within the mining and infrastructure sectors of Nelspruit and the Mpumalanga region.
• Join a firm with a strong reputation for technical excellence and a supportive team culture.
• A clear career progression path is available for high-performing individuals.
• Nelspruit provides a gateway to the scenic Lowveld and offers a good quality of life, complementing a rewarding career.