Senior Geotechnical Engineer - Remote Based

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,600,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work flexibility

Competitive compensation

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Geotechnical Engineer to lead geotechnical services for mining projects in a fully remote role. You will oversee investigations, modeling, monitoring programs, and tailings facility designs, collaborating with global teams to ensure safety and project viability.

The ideal candidate holds an MSc/PhD in Geotechnical or Civil Engineering with 10+ years in mining geotech and is skilled in PLAXIS, GeoStudio, and Slide.

Qualifications

• Advanced geotechnical analysis and design.
• Experience with tailings dams and waste rock facilities.
• Strong communication and leadership in multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Conduct site investigations and laboratory testing program design.
• Perform slope stability, seepage, and ground response numerical modeling.
• Design geotechnical instrumentation and monitoring programs.
• Develop geotechnical designs for tailings facilities and open pit slopes.
• Provide input for mine planning and design.

Skills

Geotechnical analysis

Numerical modeling

Communication

Education

MSc or PhD in Geotechnical/Civil Engineering

Tools

PLAXIS

GeoStudio Suite

Slide

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned mining and infrastructure development firm, is seeking a distinguished Senior Geotechnical Engineer to lead their geotechnical services on a fully remote basis. This position is critical for ensuring the stability and safety of various mining projects and associated infrastructure, including tailings dams, waste rock dumps, and open pit slopes. As a remote-first organization, we leverage advanced digital platforms and communication tools to facilitate seamless collaboration across our global teams. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in geotechnical analysis, site investigation, and the design of earth structures within the mining context. You will play a key role in risk assessment, providing expert advice, and overseeing geotechnical aspects of project development and operation. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned professional to apply their expertise in a flexible, remote work environment, contributing to significant and challenging projects. We are committed to the highest standards of engineering excellence and safety, and your role will be central to upholding these principles. Your work will directly impact project viability and operational safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed geotechnical investigations, including site characterization and laboratory testing program design.
• Perform advanced numerical modeling for slope stability, seepage, and ground response analysis.
• Design and specify geotechnical instrumentation and monitoring programs.
• Develop geotechnical designs for tailings storage facilities, waste rock dumps, open pit slopes, and other mining infrastructure.
• Provide expert geotechnical input and recommendations for mine planning and design.
• Conduct geotechnical risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies.
• Review and approve geotechnical reports and designs prepared by consultants or internal teams.
• Oversee the quality control of geotechnical construction activities.
• Liaise with project managers, engineers, geologists, and external stakeholders on geotechnical matters.
• Stay updated on the latest developments in geotechnical engineering and mining practices.

Requirements

• MSc or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field with a specialization in geotechnics.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in geotechnical engineering, with significant exposure to the **mining industry** (open pit and underground).
• Proficiency in geotechnical software such as PLAXIS, GeoStudio Suite, Slide, or similar.
• Extensive experience in the design and analysis of tailings dams and waste rock facilities.
• Strong understanding of soil mechanics, rock mechanics, and hydrogeology.
• Proven ability to manage complex geotechnical projects and multidisciplinary teams.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Superior written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical information clearly.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively in a **remote** setting.
• Professional Engineer (PE) or equivalent registration is required.

Benefits

• Exceptional salary and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous vacation and leave policy.
• Retirement savings plan with strong company contributions.
• Opportunities for continuous professional development and advanced training.
• The flexibility and autonomy of a fully remote work environment.
• Involvement in large-scale, challenging global mining projects.