Senior Geotechnical Engineer - Mining Operations

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Provident fund

Performance-based bonuses

Professional development opportunities

Relocation support

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting a Senior Geotechnical Engineer for our client in Midrand, Gauteng. You will lead geotechnical investigations, design ground support, and mentor engineers to ensure safe and efficient mining operations from exploration to production.

The role demands a master's or PhD, 8+ years in mining geotech, proficiency with FLAC/PLAXIS, and Pr.Eng/ECSA eligibility. You will collaborate with planning teams to optimize designs while ensuring health and safety compliance.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Geotechnical or Mining Engineering or related field.
• At least 8 years of progressive geotechnical experience in mining.
• Expertise in rock mechanics, soil mechanics, numerical modeling (FLAC/PLAXIS), and slope stability.

Responsibilities

• Conduct geotechnical investigations for open-pit and underground mining projects.
• Develop ground support designs and stability assessments for excavations, slopes, and tailings.
• Oversee geotechnical monitoring, interpret data, and recommend corrective actions.
• Collaborate with mine planning, production, and engineering to integrate geotechnical factors.
• Prepare technical reports, specifications, and recommendations for stakeholders and regulators.
• Mentor junior geotechnical engineers and promote technical excellence.
• Stay updated with geotechnical technologies applicable to mining.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental regulations in Midrand, Gauteng.

Skills

Rock mechanics

Soil mechanics

Numerical modeling

Slope stability analysis

Ground support design

Geotechnical software

Data analysis

Technical reporting

Communication

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering, Mining Engineering, or related field

Tools

FLAC

PLAXIS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the mining sector, is seeking a highly experienced and dedicated Senior Geotechnical Engineer to join their dynamic team in Midrand, Gauteng . This is a critical role focused on ensuring the stability and safety of all mining operations, from exploration to production. You will be instrumental in developing and implementing robust geotechnical strategies, conducting detailed analyses, and providing expert advice to optimize mining designs and mitigate geological risks. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of rock mechanics, soil mechanics, and engineering geology, with a proven track record of success in complex mining environments. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a leading organization and play a pivotal role in its ongoing success and commitment to operational excellence and safety standards within the South African mining landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive geotechnical investigations and analyses for various mining projects, including open-pit and underground operations.
• Develop and implement detailed ground support designs and stability assessments for mine excavations, slopes, and tailings storage facilities.
• Oversee geotechnical monitoring programs, interpret data, and recommend appropriate corrective actions to ensure mine stability.
• Collaborate closely with mine planning, production, and engineering teams to integrate geotechnical considerations into mine design and operational plans.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, specifications, and recommendations for project stakeholders and regulatory bodies.
• Mentor and guide junior geotechnical engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence and continuous improvement within the department.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in geotechnical engineering technologies and methodologies relevant to the mining industry.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations pertinent to geotechnical practices in Midrand, Gauteng .

Requirements

• A Master's degree or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering, Mining Engineering, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in geotechnical engineering, with a significant portion focused on the mining industry.
• Demonstrated expertise in rock mechanics, soil mechanics, numerical modeling (e.g., FLAC, PLAXIS), and slope stability analysis.
• Proven experience in the design and management of ground support systems for underground mines and open pits.
• Strong understanding of tailings dam design and stability assessments.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Proficiency in relevant geotechnical software and data analysis tools.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information clearly.
• Professional Engineer (Pr. Eng) registration with ECSA or eligibility for such.
• Experience working in the South African mining sector, specifically within the Gauteng region, is highly advantageous.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary package commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits program. This includes excellent medical aid coverage, a generous provident fund, performance-based bonuses, and opportunities for professional development and continuous learning. Employees will also benefit from a structured career progression path and the chance to work on challenging and impactful projects within a supportive and collaborative work environment in Midrand, Gauteng . Relocation assistance may be provided for suitable candidates.