Geotechnical Engineer

VACANCY: GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEER

Location: Hotazel, Northern Cape

Department: Mine Technical Services

Employment Type: Permanent

Salary: Market Related

The Geotechnical Engineer will provide expert geotechnical support for the design, safe operation, and optimisation of open-pit mining activities within the Technical Services Department. This role carries legal accountability under Regulation 14.1(8) of the Mine Health and Safety Act (MHSA), ensuring proactive management of rock engineering risks.

• BSc/BEng/BTech in Geotechnical Engineering, Mining Engineering, or Geology.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in open-pit mining, including at least 4 years as a Rock Engineer and Strata Control Officer.
• COM Certificate in Rock Mechanics (Metalliferous Mines).
• Legal appointment holder under MHSA 14.1(8).
• Membership with SANIRE or an equivalent professional body.
• Valid Code 08 driver’s license.
• Certificate of fitness to work in a mining environment.

• Proficient in numerical modelling with a focus on Gem4D and Rocscience software.
• Strong analytical skills with excellent reporting and data interpretation capabilities.
• Experienced in slope monitoring system implementation and management.
• Competent in Microsoft Office Suite and Mine Planning Software.
• Proactive, self-motivated, and team-oriented with leadership qualities.
• High attention to detail and strong analytical thinking.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Resilient under pressure and adaptable to shifting priorities.

• Collect and report geotechnical data including groundwater, pit wall and waste dump stability, and slope performance.
• Identify hazards and perform continuous geotechnical ratings to mitigate rockfall risk and ensure overall slope stability.
• Conduct numerical modelling and predictive analysis of potential failure modes using advanced software.
• Advise on geotechnical support systems and rock mass classification.
• Provide geotechnical input into reserve losses, dilution calculations, and mine planning (Life of Mine, Medium Term Plan, Short Term Plan).
• Provide technical input to drill and blast designs based on rock blastability and highwall protection.
• Develop and maintain a Geotechnical Drilling Database.
• Train mine personnel in strata control principles and hazard identification.

• Ensure compliance with MHSA safety standards related to geotechnical risks.
• Promote a strong safety culture and conduct regular hazard reviews.
• Lead accident and incident investigations related to ground conditions.
• Serve as custodian for the Mandatory Code of Practice – Combat Rockfall and Slope Instability-related accidents in surface mines.

• Collaborate with management and technical teams to optimise pit designs for safety and cost-effectiveness.
• Ensure geotechnical designs contribute to sustainable profitability and extended mine life.

• Monitor compliance with MHSA and other applicable regulations.
• Ensure timely and accurate updating of geotechnical statutory codes of practice and procedures.

• Align contractors with geotechnical requirements and monitor their compliance.
• Work with internal stakeholders (Production, Safety, Planning, and Geology teams) to ensure effective integration.
• Engage with external stakeholders including inspectors, suppliers, and neighbouring operations.

• Manage the performance, development, and recruitment of subordinates.
• Develop and manage operating and capital budgets.
• Provide technical leadership, enforce standards, and ensure legal compliance.