Senior Geotechnical Engineer - Underground Stability

Placements24; Midrand; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private medical aid

Retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Geotechnical Engineer to join our client in Midrand, Gauteng. You will lead geotechnical analyses for underground excavations, design ground support, and implement stability models to ensure mine safety and efficiency.

The role emphasizes advanced numerical modeling, seismic hazard assessment, and collaboration with planning and operations teams. A strong track record in underground hard rock geotechnics and Pr.Eng is preferred.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Geotechnical/Mining engineering or related field.
• 8+ years in geotechnical engineering with underground hard rock mining exposure.
• Proven ground support design, stability analysis, and numerical modeling expertise.

Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed geotechnical investigations for underground excavations (tunnels, stopes, shafts).
• Develop ground support systems and stability analyses.
• Perform seismic hazard assessments and monitoring plans.
• Prepare technical reports and recommendations for mine operations teams.
• Mentor junior engineers and geologists.

Skills

Ground analysis

Geotechnical design

Numerical modeling

Seismic hazard assessment

Project leadership

Education

Master's or PhD in Geotechnical/Mining engineering

Tools

FLAC

UDEC

Phase2

RocData

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a highly respected entity in the mining services sector, requires a seasoned Senior Geotechnical Engineer to join their team in Midrand, Gauteng. This role is integral to ensuring the stability and safety of underground mining excavations through expert geotechnical analysis and design. You will be responsible for assessing ground conditions, developing ground support strategies, performing stability analyses, and providing critical technical guidance to mine operations. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in underground hard rock mining geotechnics, proficiency in numerical modeling, and a strong understanding of seismic hazard assessment. This position offers a challenging and impactful opportunity to contribute to the safe and efficient operation of major mining projects, working with a team of dedicated professionals in a key South African mining hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed geotechnical investigations and analyses for underground mine excavations (tunnels, stopes, shafts).
• Develop, design, and implement effective ground support systems, including rockbolts, mesh, shotcrete, and other stabilizing measures.
• Utilize advanced numerical modeling software (e.g., FLAC, UDEC, Phase2, RocData) to simulate rock mass behavior and assess the stability of excavations under various conditions.
• Perform seismic hazard assessments and develop seismic monitoring and management plans.
• Analyze geotechnical data from site investigations, laboratory testing, and instrumentation.
• Provide expert geotechnical advice and recommendations to mine planning, engineering, and operations teams.
• Contribute to the development of geotechnical best practices and standard operating procedures.
• Prepare comprehensive technical reports, presentations, and specifications for project stakeholders.
• Mentor and guide junior geotechnical engineers and geologists.

Requirements

• Master's or PhD degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Mining Engineering, or a related field with a strong focus on rock mechanics.
• A minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in geotechnical engineering, with significant exposure to underground hard rock mining.
• Proven expertise in ground support design, stability analysis, and numerical modeling techniques.
• Proficiency with industry-standard geotechnical software packages is mandatory.
• Strong understanding of geological principles, rock mass characterization, and failure mechanisms.
• Experience with seismic monitoring and analysis is highly desirable.Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce clear and concise technical reports.
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) registration with ECSA is preferred.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive remuneration package, including an attractive base salary, performance incentives, and comprehensive benefits such as private medical aid and a retirement fund.
• Significant opportunities for professional development, including advanced training and certifications, are provided.
• This role offers substantial career growth potential within a leading organization renowned for its technical expertise.
• The position is based in Midrand, Gauteng, providing a strategic location within South Africa's economic heartland.

Join a team committed to safety, innovation, and engineering excellence in the challenging field of underground mining.