Senior Geotechnical Engineer - Mining Sector

Placements24; Klerksdorp; Hybrid; ZAR 1,400,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Medical aid scheme

Retirement fund

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 invites applications for a Senior Geotechnical Engineer to join a leading engineering consultancy in Klerksdorp, SA. The role centers on geotechnical assessments for mining infrastructure, including open pits and tailings facilities, with fieldwork and reporting responsibilities.

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s in geotechnical engineering, is Pr.Eng with ECSA, and brings 7+ years in mining geotech, rock mechanics, and foundation design.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Geotechnical Engineering or related field.
• Professional registration as a Pr. Eng with ECSA is essential.
• 7+ years of geotechnical experience with mining focus.
• Experience in slope stability, rock mechanics, and foundation design for mining applications.
• Proficiency with GeoStudio, Plaxis, FLAC or similar tools.
• Tailings dam design experience is highly advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Conduct geotechnical site investigations for mining infrastructure, including open pits and underground operations.
• Perform detailed analyses for foundation design, slope stability, seismic hazards, and tailings dam engineering.
• Interpret geological data and results from in-situ and laboratory testing.
• Prepare geotechnical reports, design recommendations, and risk assessments for mining projects.
• Collaborate with mining engineers and geologists to integrate findings into mine planning.
• Mentor junior geotechnical engineers and technicians.

Skills

Slope stability analysis

Rock mechanics

Foundation design

Tailings dam design

Mining geotechnical experience

Education

Master’s degree in Geotechnical Engineering or related field

Pr. Eng registration with ECSA

Tools

GeoStudio

Plaxis

FLAC

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent engineering consultancy deeply involved in the mining sector, is looking for a highly skilled Senior Geotechnical Engineer to join their established team in Klerksdorp. This role is crucial for supporting the safe and efficient operation of mining activities through expert geological and geotechnical assessments. You will be involved in detailed site investigations, foundation design for heavy industrial structures, slope stability analysis for open-pit mines, and tailings dam design. The position requires extensive fieldwork, rigorous data analysis, and the ability to provide clear, actionable recommendations to mine operators. We are seeking an individual with a strong academic background, practical experience in mining geotechnics, and excellent problem-solving capabilities. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to significant projects within one of South Africa's key industrial sectors.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive geotechnical site investigations for mining infrastructure, including open pits and underground operations.
• Perform detailed analyses for foundation design, slope stability, seismic hazards, and tailings dam engineering.
• Interpret geological data and results from in-situ and laboratory testing.
• Prepare detailed geotechnical reports, design recommendations, and risk assessments tailored for the mining industry.
• Collaborate with mining engineers, geologists, and other stakeholders to integrate geotechnical findings into mine planning and design.
• Supervise drilling operations and other site investigation activities.
• Ensure compliance with mining safety regulations and environmental standards.
• Utilize specialised geotechnical software for modelling and analysis.
• Mentor junior geotechnical engineers and technicians.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Geotechnical Engineering or a related field.
• Professional registration as a Pr. Eng. with ECSA is essential.
• A minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in geotechnical engineering, with a significant portion dedicated to the mining sector.
• Demonstrated expertise in slope stability analysis, rock mechanics, and foundation design for mining applications.
• Proficiency with geotechnical software such as GeoStudio, Plaxis, FLAC, or similar industry-standard tools.
• Experience with tailings dam design and management is highly advantageous.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and report-writing skills.
• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities, with the capacity to work effectively on-site and in an office environment.
• Willingness to travel to various mine sites as required.
• Based in or willing to relocate to the Klerksdorp area.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, including a robust annual salary and potential for performance-based bonuses. Employees benefit from a comprehensive medical aid scheme and a retirement fund. Opportunities for professional development are abundant, with support for further training, certifications, and attendance at relevant mining and geotechnical conferences. The company fosters a dynamic and collaborative work environment, promoting career advancement and providing exposure to a diverse range of challenging projects within the mining industry.