Senior Rock Engineering Specialist - Underground Mining

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

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Medical aid

Pension plan

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Rock Engineering Specialist to lead geotechnical efforts in a major underground mining operation near Klerksdorp, North West, South Africa. You will apply advanced geotechnical methods to assess rock mass conditions, design ground support, and guide best practices across planning, safety, and operations.

The role demands 8+ years in underground hard rock geotechnical work, expertise in numerical modeling and seismic monitoring, and strong leadership capabilities to

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Mining/Geotechnical/Rock Mechanics.
• 8+ years of underground hard rock mining geotech experience.
• Proficiency with geotechnical software and data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Conduct geotechnical investigations for underground projects and assess rock mass conditions.
• Develop ground support designs and monitor implementation.
• Provide technical guidance and collaborate with planning, safety, and operations.

Skills

Geotechnical data analysis

Numerical modeling

Ground support design

Seismic monitoring

Team mentorship

Education

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

Tools

FLAC

UDEC

Phase2

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent player in the mining sector, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Rock Engineering Specialist to join their dynamic team in the Klerksdorp, North West region. This is a critical role that demands deep expertise in underground mining geomechanics and a proven track record in ensuring mine safety and operational efficiency. You will be instrumental in providing advanced geotechnical advice and support to complex mining operations, focusing on hazard identification, risk assessment, and the implementation of effective ground support systems. This position offers a challenging and rewarding opportunity to contribute to a large-scale operation and shape best practices in a vital industry. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills and a passion for solving intricate geological and engineering problems within a demanding environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive geotechnical investigations and analyses for underground mining projects, assessing geological conditions, rock mass properties, and seismic hazards.
• Develop and implement detailed ground support designs and strategies, including reinforcement, support systems, and monitoring protocols, to mitigate risks associated with unstable ground conditions.
• Utilize advanced numerical modeling software (e.g., FLAC, UDEC, Phase2) to simulate rock mass behavior and evaluate the stability of excavations, stopes, and pillars.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers and mine personnel on rock engineering principles and best practices.
• Collaborate closely with mine planning, production, and safety departments to integrate geotechnical considerations into all aspects of mine design and operations.
• Monitor ground conditions through field observations, instrumentation, and data analysis, and recommend timely interventions to prevent incidents.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and specifications for management and project stakeholders.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements and research in rock mechanics and mining geotechnics, applying innovative solutions where appropriate.

Requirements

• Master's or PhD degree in Mining Engineering, Geotechnical Engineering, Rock Mechanics, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in rock engineering specifically within underground hard rock mining environments.
• Proven expertise in geotechnical data analysis, numerical modeling, and ground support design.
• Strong understanding of seismic monitoring and analysis techniques.
• Proficiency in industry-standard geotechnical software packages.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to various mine sites as required.
• Registration as a Professional Engineer (Pr.Eng) or equivalent is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Competitive remuneration package, including an attractive annual salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Opportunities for professional development and further training.
• Relocation assistance may be provided to eligible candidates.

Join a team dedicated to safety, innovation, and operational excellence in the South African mining industry.