Section Manager: Geotechnical Engineering, Pretoria

About the Role:

Lead and grow Knight Piesold’s Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology team. You will drive technical excellence, delivery and commercial performance on major mining and infrastructure projects across South Africa and the SADC region.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead, mentor and develop a multidisciplinary team Own section performance: budgeting, forecasting, utilisation and invoicing Technical governance: QA/QC, independent reviews, sign-off on deliverables Plan and manage site investigations: scope, tender, HSE, logistics and permits Engineering geology: mapping, logging, ground models, hazards and risks Numerical modelling: PLAXIS, GeoStudio, Rocscience Testing and geomaterials: CPTu/SPT/DMT/PMT, MASW/seismic, lab tests Construction support: methods, temporary work, grouting, instrumentation and monitoring, data interpretation Produce clear reports, specs and BOQs; ensure standards compliance Client engagement and bids: proposals, fees, scopes, presentations Collaborate across disciplines, champion digital delivery and data management Compliance: OHS Act, Construction Regs, MHSA, ISO 9001/14001/45001, SANS 10160/10199/1936, Eurocode 7, SAICE0

Minimum Requirements:

BSc/BEng Civil or BSc Engineering Geology with postgraduate in Engineering Geology/Geotechnical Engineering/ Rock Engineering Professional registration: Pr.Eng (ECSA) or Pr.Sci.Nat (SACNASP) 10–15 years’ minimum relevant experience, incl. 3–5 years minimum in leadership positions Proven delivery on major SA/SADC mining and infrastructure projects Familiar with software packages PLAXIS 2D/3D, GeoStudio, Rocscience, Settle3, gINT/OpenGround, Leapfrog/Seequent, QGIS/ArcGIS, FLAC MSc/MEng would be advantageous FIDIC/NEC; PFMA exposure is an advantage Flexibility for travel and remote site work

Why Join Us?

Market-related remuneration plus eligibility for performance-linked bonuses at the company's discretion. Comprehensive benefits: medical aid and subsidy, pension and group risk cover Professional growth: support for registration (ECSA/SACNASP), CPD and further study Visa and relocation assistance for qualified international candidates Hybrid working, plus travel, phone and data allowances Lead and shape a high-performing section and deliver landmark projects across the region Inclusive, values-driven culture with a strong focus on transformation, learning and career growth

How to apply:

Email your CV and a brief cover letter:

Subject/Ref: SM-GEOTECH-2026

Closing date: 9 February 2026

Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Background and qualification checks may be conducted. Knight Piesold is an equal opportunity employer.