Senior Principal Geotechnical Engineer - Underground Mining

Placements24; Soweto; Hybrid; ZAR 2,200,000 - 3,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive-level compensation

Comprehensive medical and life ins.

Retirement benefits

Relocation assistance may be provided

Job summary

Placements24 invites applications for a Principal Geotechnical Engineer to provide expert technical leadership for underground operations in Soweto, Gauteng. The role focuses on cutting-edge geotechnical analysis, design support, and mentorship of junior engineers.

You will shape rock mechanics and ground support practices, collaborate with planning, operations and R&D teams, and help mitigate risks in challenging mining environments.

Qualifications

• Minimum 12 years of specialized experience in geotechnical engineering within the mining industry, with a focus on underground operations.
• Expertise in advanced numerical modeling software (FLAC3D, UDEC, PFC2D/3D, Phase3D).
• Deep understanding of rock mechanics principles, seismic hazard assessment, and ground support design.
• Proven experience in managing complex geotechnical projects from inception to completion.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills at a senior level.

Responsibilities

• Provide advanced geotechnical consultancy for complex underground mining projects.
• Lead the design and optimization of ground support systems for high-stress and seismic environments.
• Develop and oversee geotechnical monitoring programs with instrumentation and data interpretation.
• Conduct advanced numerical modeling and analysis of underground excavations and rock mass behavior.
• Review and approve geotechnical designs and reports prepared by other engineers.
• Mentor and guide junior geotechnical engineers and technical staff.
• Contribute to the development of corporate geotechnical standards, guidelines, and best practices.
• Liaise with site personnel, management, and external consultants on geotechnical issues.
• Stay abreast of new developments and technologies in geotechnical engineering for mining.
• Lead investigations into significant geotechnical failures or incidents with detailed analysis and recommendations.

Skills

Geotechnical engineering

Leadership

Numerical modeling

Rock mechanics

Project management

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Geotechnical Engineering

Tools

FLAC3D

UDEC

PFC2D/3D

Phase3D

Job description

Placements24 invites applications for a Principal Geotechnical Engineer to provide expert technical leadership for underground operations in Soweto, Gauteng. The role focuses on cutting-edge geotechnical analysis, design support, and mentorship of junior engineers.

You will shape rock mechanics and ground support practices, collaborate with planning, operations and R&D teams, and help mitigate risks in challenging mining environments.