Senior Rock Engineering Specialist

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

Benefits offered by this job

Annual bonus

Medical aid

Provident fund

Professional development

Relocation assistance

On-site facilities

Training programs

Safety culture

Global exposure

Job summary

Placements24 in Johannesburg seeks a Senior Rock Engineering Specialist to lead geotechnical stability analyses for underground mine designs. You will plan field investigations, apply numerical modeling, and design ground support, ensuring safety and efficiency across operations.

Ideal candidates bring 7+ years in rock engineering, expertise in FLAC/UDEC/Map3D/RS2, and strong communication with multi-disciplinary teams.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Rock Mechanics, Geotechnical Engineering, Mining Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in rock engineering within the mining industry.
• Proven expertise in numerical modeling software such as FLAC, UDEC, Map3D and RS2.
• Strong understanding of geological principles, rock mass classification and failure mechanisms.
• Experience with underground mining methods and associated geotechnical challenges.

Responsibilities

• Conduct geotechnical assessments and stability analyses for underground mine designs.
• Develop and implement ground support strategies tailored to geology and mining methods.
• Perform numerical modeling and simulations to predict rock mass response.
• Plan and oversee field investigations, including core logging and lab testing.
• Analyze monitoring data to assess ground conditions and validate designs.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and geologists.
• Collaborate with mine planning, production, and ventilation teams for safety and efficiency.
• Prepare technical reports and presentations for stakeholders.
• Stay updated on advances in rock mechanics and mining technologies.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and environmental regulations.

Skills

Rock mechanics

Geotechnical engineering

Numerical modeling

Ground control

Field investigations

Education

Master's degree or PhD in Rock Mechanics, Geotechnical Engineering, Mining Engineering, or related field

Tools

FLAC

UDEC

Map3D

RS2

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading entity in the Mining sector, is seeking an exceptional Senior Rock Engineering Specialist to join their dynamic team in Johannesburg, Gauteng. This is a pivotal role for an individual passionate about geotechnical stability and innovative mining practices. The successful candidate will play a critical role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of underground operations by providing expert analysis and recommendations on rock mass behavior. We are looking for a proactive problem-solver with a deep understanding of numerical modeling, field investigations, and mine design principles. This position offers the opportunity to work on challenging projects within a collaborative and supportive environment, contributing directly to the operational success and safety standards of the company. The role demands a high level of technical expertise and the ability to communicate complex findings clearly to diverse stakeholders, including mine management and operational teams. Join us and be at the forefront of geotechnical excellence in the South African mining industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive geotechnical assessments and stability analyses for underground mine designs, including excavation stability, support design, and ground control planning.
• Develop and implement detailed ground support strategies tailored to specific geological conditions and mining methods.
• Perform numerical modeling and simulations (e.g., Finite Element Method, Discrete Element Method) to predict rock mass response to mining activities.
• Plan and oversee field investigations, including core logging, laboratory testing, and in-situ stress measurements.
• Analyze monitoring data (e.g., extensometers, convergence measurements, seismicity) to assess ground conditions and validate design assumptions.
• Provide expert technical advice and mentorship to junior engineers and geologists.
• Collaborate closely with mine planning, production, and ventilation teams to ensure integrated safety and operational efficiency.
• Prepare high-quality technical reports, presentations, and documentation for internal and external stakeholders.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in rock mechanics, geotechnical engineering, and mining technologies.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health, safety, and environmental regulations.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Rock Mechanics, Geotechnical Engineering, Mining Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in rock engineering within the mining industry.
• Proven expertise in numerical modeling software (e.g., FLAC, UDEC, Map3D, RS2).
• Strong understanding of geological principles, rock mass classification systems, and failure mechanisms.
• Experience with underground mining methods and associated geotechnical challenges.
• Proficiency in field data collection, instrumentation, and laboratory testing protocols.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information effectively.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to mine sites as required.
• Membership in a relevant professional engineering body is advantageous.

Benefits

• substantial annual bonus
• comprehensive medical aid coverage (including extensive specialist benefits)
• generous provident fund contribution
• opportunities for continuous professional development and career advancement
• subsidized on-site facilities
• ongoing training programs
• supportive work culture focused on safety and innovation
• relocation assistance may be available for candidates relocating to Johannesburg
• exposure to large-scale, technically demanding projects within a globally recognized organization