Senior Geotechnical Engineer - Underground Mining

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Advanced geotechnical tools and data

Relocation support (Stellenbosch)

Professional development

Challenging underground projects

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Geotechnical Engineer to lead geotechnical design for underground mining projects in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. You will analyze rock mass properties, evaluate stresses, and develop ground support and stability solutions that ensure safety and operational integrity.

The role requires a Master’s or PhD in Geotechnical/Mining Engineering with 8+ years of underground mine experience, plus proficiency in Rocscience tools and FLAC.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering, Mining Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in geotechnical engineering with a focus on underground mine design and stability.
• Proficiency in geotechnical software for modeling and analysis (e.g., Rocscience suite - Slide, Phase2; FLAC).
• Strong understanding of rock mechanics, discontinuity analysis, and empirical/numerical modeling techniques.
• Experience with underground site investigations, core logging, and laboratory testing interpretation.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive geotechnical site investigations and data collection for underground mining projects.
• Perform detailed analysis of rock mass properties, stress conditions, and potential failure mechanisms.
• Design and recommend ground support systems and excavation stability measures.
• Develop geotechnical monitoring programs and interpret monitoring data to assess stability over time.
• Provide expert geotechnical input into mine planning and operational procedures.
• Prepare geotechnical reports, risk assessments, and recommendations for mine management.

Skills

Rock mechanics

Data analysis

Technical writing

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in Geotechnical/Mining Engineering

Tools

Rocscience (Slide, Phase2)

FLAC

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly experienced Senior Geotechnical Engineer to join their team in Stellenbosch, Western Cape , focusing on underground mining operations. This crucial role involves assessing and managing geological risks associated with underground excavations to ensure the safety and stability of mine infrastructure. You will be responsible for conducting detailed site investigations, analyzing rock mechanics data, and designing support systems. This position offers a challenging yet rewarding opportunity to apply your expertise in a critical area of mining engineering within a company that prioritizes safety and operational integrity.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive geotechnical site investigations and data collection for underground mining projects.
• Perform detailed analysis of rock mass properties, stress conditions, and potential failure mechanisms.
• Design and recommend appropriate ground support systems and excavation stability measures.
• Develop geotechnical monitoring programs and interpret monitoring data to assess stability over time.
• Provide expert geotechnical advice and input into mine planning and operational procedures.
• Prepare clear and concise geotechnical reports, risk assessments, and recommendations for mine management.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Geotechnical Engineering, Mining Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in geotechnical engineering, with a significant focus on underground mine design and stability .
• Proficiency in geotechnical software for modeling and analysis (e.g., Rocscience suite - Slide, Phase2; FLAC).
• Strong understanding of rock mechanics, discontinuity analysis, and empirical/numerical modeling techniques.
• Experience with underground site investigations, core logging, and laboratory testing interpretation.
• Excellent technical writing skills and the ability to communicate complex geotechnical concepts effectively.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to work on challenging and impactful underground mining projects.
• Access to advanced geotechnical analysis tools and software.
• Professional development and continuous learning opportunities.
• Relocation assistance may be provided for the right candidate in the Stellenbosch area.