Geotechnical​/Rock Mechanics Engineer - Mining

Job Description

What if you could shape a career as unique as you? At WSP, you can always find opportunities to grow and do what matters to you. Make the most of our global reach to discover new challenges and chances to work with diverse, talented individuals who will help you expand your horizons.

We are seeking a Geotechnical / Rock Mechanics Engineer to join our growing UK team. The role will support a diverse portfolio of open pit and underground mining projects, while also contributing to major infrastructure and geoenergy developments in the UK and internationally. This is an excellent opportunity to work alongside leading specialists within WSP’s global mining and ground engineering network, delivering technically challenging and high‑impact projects across multiple sectors.

• Contribute to the delivery of geotechnical and rock mechanics services for open pit and underground mining projects.
• Undertake rock mass characterisation, including interpretation of borehole, laboratory, and field data to derive material and discontinuity properties for design.
• Apply rock mass classification systems (Q, RMR, GSI), including statistical analysis and interpretation.
• Develop engineering ground models, including 3D geological and structural models using software such as Leapfrog Geo.
• Perform rock mass stability assessments for slopes and underground excavations using empirical, analytical, and numerical approaches.
• Carry out numerical modelling and analysis using industry‑standard tools (Itasca software - FLAC2D, FLAC3D, UDEC, 3
  
  DEC, Rocscience suite, etc).
• Participate in fieldwork, including geotechnical core logging, site inspections, and rock face mapping during ground investigations.
• Collaborate with WSP’s global mining and ground engineering teams, working closely with specialists across regions and disciplines.
• Travel within the UK and internationally, representing WSP professionally in client‑facing roles, presentations, and site assignments.

• Joining the WSP Mine Engineering & Stability (MES) team in the UK, working alongside a multidisciplinary group of experts with strong links to our global mining and ground engineering business.
• Collaborating with talented and diverse professionals on a range of projects across the mining, infrastructure, and energy sectors.
• Contributing to clients’ performance optimisation, profitability, and responsible operations while staying informed on industry challenges such as decarbonisation.

• Bachelor’s degree in Geotechnical Engineering, Engineering Geology, Civil Engineering, or a related discipline.
• A postgraduate qualification in rock mechanics or geotechnical engineering is strongly preferred.
• Relevant post‑degree professional experience in geotechnical and/or rock mechanics engineering.
• Understanding of ground characterisation and geotechnical design processes.
• Experience with numerical modelling software, particularly Itasca (FLAC2D/3D, UDEC, 3
  
  DEC) and the Rocscience suite.
• Willingness and enthusiasm to develop technical capability and apply advanced methods to solve rock engineering problems.
• Professional membership (or working towards) with a relevant institution.
• Experience with Python programming and CAD / parametric modelling (e.g. Rhino / Grasshopper) would be an advantage.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and communication skills (written and verbal).

Our hybrid working policy offers the flexibility to work from home two days a week, while also providing opportunities to collaborate in modern offices across the UK.

We welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences, celebrating integrity and treating people with respect. Our employee resource groups promote a culture of inclusivity.

We provide a Thrive programme, a virtual GP service, reasonable workplace adjustments, a Gymflex scheme, and comprehensive menopause support.

Our “WSP My Hour” allows you to take one hour each day for personal activities, with flexibility to make up the time later.

We invest in training, mentoring, and chartership to support your growth.

We encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria. Please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application.